Glassnode: Cryptocurrency Market Entering Late-Stage Consolidation Phase
Bitcoin has now been trading below the realized price and short-term holder cost basis for nearly five months, indicating a prolonged period of undervaluation. The market exhibits late-stage accumulation characteristics. Long-term holders (LTHs) are the primary source of sell-side pressure, with their realized losses reaching a daily peak of $280 million, the highest since December 2022, and accounting for 43% of total on-chain realized losses. A sustained decline in this LTH selling is a crucial prerequisite for a meaningful reversal.
Spot ETF flows, while moderating from June peaks, remain in a state of monthly net outflows. Daily trading volumes have collapsed roughly 80% from the October 2025 highs, reflecting weak institutional demand and lack of confidence.
Derivatives markets show a cautious tilt towards bullishness, with the put/call ratio hitting a 2026 low and funding rates neutral. However, the options volatility skew remains in "put premium," indicating persistent demand for downside protection, even as the absolute cost of that protection has declined. The spot price currently trades approximately 6% below the $66,000 max pain level.
In summary, key conditions for a market bottom are in place, including sustained undervaluation and significant LTH capitulation. However, definitive signals for a transition to a bull market—namely, a sustained drop in LTH realized losses, stabilization of ETF fund flows, and price reclaiming key on-chain cost bases—are not yet confirmed. The market is in the late stages of basing, awaiting these catalysts for a sustained recovery.
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