Despite recent price volatility, large Bitcoin holders are increasing their positions, signaling long-term confidence. The number of wallets holding at least 100 BTC has grown over 11% in the past year to 20,229. Meanwhile, retail sentiment has turned bearish, and analysts point to progress on the CLARITY Act as a potential regulatory catalyst for the market.
Large Bitcoin holders increased their positions throughout volatile market conditions. Bitcoin briefly touched $76,000 this week amid a sharp pullback.
The number of Bitcoin wallets holding at least 100 BTC has risen to 20,229. This represents an 11.2% increase compared to the 18,191 wallets recorded at the same time last year.
Wallets holding this amount contain roughly $7.7 million or more and are often linked to major investors. Santiment explained that this steady rise continued despite periods of retail caution and fear.
In contrast, bearish comments about Bitcoin now outnumber bullish ones for the first time since April 21. Smaller traders are reacting strongly to recent market weakness.
CryptoQuant’s SOAB ratio surged, indicating large-scale capitulation from older holders. Short-term investors are also showing signs of panic selling.
Despite this bearish mood, Santiment said crypto markets tend to move against the majority view. The spike in bearish sentiment could improve the chances of a near-term rebound.
Nexo research analyst Dessislava Ianeva believes the CLARITY Act’s progress could become a major catalyst. The bill recently advanced out of the Senate Banking Committee.
Ianeva stated that Bitcoin briefly climbed above $82,000 following the committee’s approval. She compared the development to the earlier GENIUS Act rally.
