Bitcoin has long been a hallmark of the cryptocurrency markets, thriving on its 24/7 accessibility. Weekend trading, once a notorious breeding ground for volatility, has been especially significant in the cryptocurrency landscape.
However, a recent report by Kaiko reveals a not so rosy picture – BTC weekend trading volumes have plunged to historic lows, potentially marking a new era dominated by institutional weekday warriors.
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Bitcoin Trading Activity Takes A Nap
Kaiko’s data is straightforward: Bitcoin weekend trading activity has shrunk dramatically, dropping from a high of 28% in 2019 to a mere 16% in 2024. This dramatic decline coincides with the highly anticipated launch of spot Bitcoin ETFs in the US. These exchange-traded funds, mirroring the behavior of stocks, can only be traded during traditional market hours.
The influence of institutional investors, who tend to favor these regulated products, is evident. The report highlights a surge in Bitcoin trading activity during the “benchmark fixing window” – the final hour of US stock market trading. This suggests institutions are shaping new trading patterns, prioritizing weekdays over the once-active weekends.
Beyond Weekends: A Multifaceted Market Transformation
The decline in weekend activity isn’t solely attributable to ETFs. The closure of crypto-friendly banks like Signature and Silicon Valley Bank in March 2023 is another contributing factor. These institutions provided 24/7 infrastructure that enabled market makers to constantly place buy and sell orders. Their absence has created a void in weekend liquidity, further dampening trading activity.
However, the changing landscape isn’t all doom and gloom. The report offers a glimmer of hope for investors seeking stability. The reduced weekend volatility could make Bitcoin a more predictable asset, potentially attracting a new wave of institutional interest. Additionally, the historical trend suggests July could be a positive month for Bitcoin, with price increases observed in seven out of the past 11 Julys.
Jitters On The Horizon?
While the weekend trading scene may be quieting down, the coming weeks look to be somewhat turbulent for the crypto market. The potential approval of Ethereum ETFs could further fuel institutional involvement and potentially impact Bitcoin’s dominance.
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The Road Ahead
The dwindling weekend trading activity signifies a potential paradigm shift in the Bitcoin market. While the once-volatile weekends may become a relic of the past, the coming months promise to be eventful.
Institutional investors are now in the spotlight, shaping new trading patterns and potentially ushering in an era of greater stability. However, this month could still introduce significant volatility, keeping investors on the edge of their seats.
Featured image from Inc. Magazine, chart from TradingView