The latest reports indicate that the availability of Bitcoin on Over-the-Counter (OTC) desks has seen a sharp decline, with only about 40 BTC reportedly available for sale at one point. This scarcity of BTC on OTC desks could have far-reaching implications for the market and potentially signify a new era in BTC trading dynamics.
Caitlin Long, the CEO and founder of Custodia Bank, pointed out the current state of the OTC Bitcoin market through a series of posts on social media. Long highlighted that the #HODLgang has largely held onto their BTC and noted the lack of BTC available for sale on major OTC desks during her recent visit to NYC. This scarcity of BTC on OTC desks is not an isolated incident but rather part of a broader trend indicating a significant shift in the market.
Well-known figures in the cryptocurrency space, such as Samuel Andrew, have echoed Long’s observations, emphasizing that OTC desks are nearly dried up with very little Bitcoin easily accessible to meet the growing demand. Reports suggest that only about 40 BTC were available for sale at any price on a particular day, indicating a severe shortage in BTC availability on OTC desks.
Glassnode, a leading blockchain data and analytics firm, reported that Bitcoins held by OTC desks are at their lowest level in five years. This trend points to a potential supply shock in the Bitcoin market, driven by increased demand from institutional investors and large corporations seeking to include Bitcoin in their portfolios, as well as the introduction of spot Bitcoin ETFs. The shortage of Bitcoin on OTC desks could lead to a shift in price discovery from OTC desks to public exchanges, where the real market price of Bitcoin will be more transparently determined.
Analysts have already begun speculating on the possible outcomes of this situation. Alessandro Ottaviani suggested the possibility of significant price movements, while Francis Pouliot highlighted the self-correcting nature of the market where price increases can drive more selling. Adam Back provided a bullish outlook, predicting a price of $100k by the halving day, highlighting the increasing belief in Bitcoin’s potential.
The depletion of BTC supply on OTC desks represents a pivotal moment for the Bitcoin market. With the upcoming halving event and institutional interest at an all-time high, the market is set for potentially unprecedented movements. The current price of BTC at $61,903 reflects the growing importance of Bitcoin in the broader financial landscape. As always, it is essential for investors to conduct their own research and make informed decisions when it comes to investment in cryptocurrencies.