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27 Feb 2026, 04:55

USD/CNH Soars: PBOC’s Decisive 0% FX Risk Reserve Cut Sparks Market Recovery

BitcoinWorld USD/CNH Soars: PBOC’s Decisive 0% FX Risk Reserve Cut Sparks Market Recovery In a pivotal move for global currency markets, the USD/CNH pair surged decisively above the 0.8500 threshold on March 15, 2025. This recovery followed an immediate market reaction to the People’s Bank of China’s announcement that it would reduce the foreign exchange risk reserve ratio for financial institutions to 0%. Consequently, analysts are scrutinizing this policy shift for its broader implications on yuan liquidity and Sino-US financial dynamics. USD/CNH Recovery and the PBOC’s Policy Lever The USD/CNH exchange rate, which tracks the US dollar against the offshore Chinese yuan, demonstrated notable volatility throughout the trading session. Initially, the pair tested support levels before the PBOC’s statement provided a clear directional catalyst. Market participants rapidly processed the news, leading to a swift appreciation of the dollar against the yuan. This movement highlights the profound sensitivity of the forex market to Chinese regulatory adjustments. Historically, the PBOC employs the foreign exchange risk reserve ratio as a counter-cyclical macroprudential tool. By setting this requirement, the central bank influences the cost for financial institutions to hold foreign exchange positions. A reduction to 0% effectively removes a cost barrier, thereby encouraging institutions to increase their foreign currency holdings. This policy aims to smooth excessive volatility and manage yuan liquidity conditions in the offshore market. Decoding the FX Risk Reserve Ratio Mechanism To understand the market’s reaction, one must examine the mechanics of the reserve ratio. Previously, financial institutions engaging in forex forward trading were mandated to deposit a percentage of their sales as risk reserves with the PBOC. This deposit earned no interest, acting as a financial disincentive against speculative short-yuan positions. The reserve ratio has fluctuated over the years, serving as a barometer for the central bank’s policy stance on currency stability. The decision to cut the ratio to zero sends a unambiguous signal. Primarily, it suggests the PBOC’s comfort with current yuan depreciation pressures or its desire to alleviate tight offshore yuan liquidity. Furthermore, this action reduces the cost of hedging for corporations and investors, potentially increasing capital flow volumes. The table below outlines recent changes to this key policy tool: Date FX Risk Reserve Ratio Primary Market Context Sept 2020 20% Introduced to curb rapid yuan appreciation Dec 2020 0% Reduced to stabilize hedging costs May 2021 5% Increased to manage depreciation expectations Sept 2022 0% Cut to support the yuan amid economic headwinds March 2025 0% Reduced from a prior positive level to current zero This historical context reveals a pattern of active, discretionary use. Each adjustment correlates with specific phases in the yuan’s valuation cycle and global risk sentiment. Expert Analysis on Liquidity and Market Sentiment Financial economists point to several interconnected factors behind the timing of this decision. First, recent data indicated tightening liquidity conditions in the offshore CNH market, as measured by the Hong Kong Interbank Offered Rate for yuan. Second, a widening interest rate differential between US and Chinese government bonds had increased natural pressure on the yuan. The PBOC’s move directly addresses these technical pressures by making it cheaper to source and hold US dollars. “This is a precision tool, not a blunt instrument,” noted Dr. Li Wei, a former PBOC researcher now with the Asian Development Bank Institute. “By targeting the cost of forward transactions, the central bank can influence expectations and liquidity without direct intervention in the spot market. The immediate recovery in USD/CNH suggests the policy is functioning as intended to provide two-way flexibility.” Global Macroeconomic Implications and Ripple Effects The policy shift extends its influence beyond the direct USD/CNH pair. Major Asian currencies, including the Korean won and the Singapore dollar, often experience correlated movements with Chinese yuan policy changes. A managed, stable depreciation pathway for the yuan can alleviate competitive pressure on regional exporters. Conversely, it may also influence global commodity prices, as China is a marginal buyer for many raw materials priced in US dollars. International investors monitor such adjustments closely for portfolio allocation signals. A lower hedging cost reduces the expense of holding Chinese assets for foreign investors, potentially supporting capital inflows into Chinese bonds and equities over the medium term. However, the immediate market reaction centered on the currency pair itself, with trading volumes spiking nearly 40% above the 30-day average following the announcement. Key immediate impacts observed in the market include: Reduced Hedging Costs: The immediate lowering of expenses for corporations locking in future exchange rates. Improved Liquidity: Enhanced flow of offshore yuan, easing short-term funding strains. Signal of Policy Stance: A communicated tolerance for greater two-way currency flexibility. Arbitrage Channel Adjustment: Narrowing the basis between onshore (CNY) and offshore (CNH) yuan rates. Conclusion The recovery of the USD/CNH pair above 0.8500 following the PBOC’s reserve ratio cut underscores the powerful role of macroprudential tools in modern forex markets. This move, aimed at managing liquidity and expectations, provides a clear case study in proactive central banking. The USD/CNH trajectory will continue to reflect the complex interplay between Chinese policy directives, global dollar strength, and evolving risk sentiment. Market participants will now watch for follow-up data on capital flows and the PBOC’s medium-term lending facility operations to gauge the next phase of policy. FAQs Q1: What is the FX risk reserve ratio? The foreign exchange risk reserve ratio is a macroprudential policy tool used by the PBOC. It requires financial institutions to set aside a portion of their foreign exchange forward sales as a non-interest-bearing deposit with the central bank, influencing the cost of currency hedging. Q2: Why does cutting the ratio to 0% cause USD/CNH to rise? Reducing the ratio to zero lowers the cost for financial institutions to sell yuan forward for US dollars. This increased selling pressure on the yuan and demand for dollars in the forward market transmits to the spot market, pushing the USD/CNH exchange rate higher. Q3: Is this a signal the PBOC is weakening the yuan on purpose? Not necessarily. The primary stated goal is to manage market volatility and improve liquidity. The tool allows two-way flexibility. The PBOC typically aims for broad stability against a basket of currencies, not a specific USD/CNY level. Q4: How does this affect international businesses? Businesses that hedge their yuan exposure will see lower costs for forward contracts, making financial planning more predictable. Importers paying in dollars may face slightly higher yuan costs, while exporters receiving dollars may see a marginal benefit. Q5: What should traders watch for next after this move? Traders should monitor offshore yuan liquidity indicators like CNH Hibor, the daily USD/CNY central parity rate set by the PBOC, and any changes in China’s foreign exchange reserves data for signs of follow-up action or shifting policy priorities. This post USD/CNH Soars: PBOC’s Decisive 0% FX Risk Reserve Cut Sparks Market Recovery first appeared on BitcoinWorld .

27 Feb 2026, 04:45

Focus AI Completes Transformative Acquisition of Busan Digital Asset Exchange to Dominate RWA Tokenization

BitcoinWorld Focus AI Completes Transformative Acquisition of Busan Digital Asset Exchange to Dominate RWA Tokenization In a landmark move for South Korea’s burgeoning digital finance sector, artificial intelligence firm Focus AI has finalized its acquisition of the Busan Digital Asset Exchange (Bdan). This pivotal transaction, confirmed on February 27, 2025, positions Focus AI as the controlling shareholder with a 40.61% stake. Consequently, the deal marks a significant consolidation within Asia’s competitive real-world asset (RWA) tokenization landscape. The acquisition process, which commenced in December of the previous year, concluded with the final payment, enabling Focus AI to surpass other major stakeholders like ITcen Global, which retains approximately 19%. Focus AI Acquisition Reshapes South Korea’s Digital Asset Market The completion of this acquisition represents more than a simple corporate transaction. It signals a strategic pivot for Focus AI, a company previously known for its core AI technologies, into the heart of digital asset infrastructure. By securing control of Bdan, South Korea’s inaugural exchange dedicated to RWA tokenization, Focus AI gains immediate entry and leadership in a high-growth niche. The company has explicitly outlined ambitious plans to expand services across three interconnected verticals: RWA tokenization, security token offerings (STOs), and stablecoin-based payment systems. This integrated approach aims to create a comprehensive ecosystem for tokenized assets. Industry analysts view this move as a direct response to global financial trends. Traditional finance increasingly seeks blockchain efficiency, while regulators demand more structured frameworks. Bdan’s existing regulatory groundwork in Busan, a designated blockchain regulation-free zone, provides a crucial launchpad. Therefore, Focus AI can leverage this established compliance foundation to scale its new business lines rapidly. The timing is particularly strategic, coinciding with heightened institutional interest in tokenizing assets like real estate, commodities, and intellectual property. The Strategic Rationale Behind the Busan Digital Asset Exchange Takeover Understanding the significance of this Focus AI acquisition requires examining the unique value of the Busan Digital Asset Exchange. Founded as a pioneer, Bdan specialized in bridging physical assets and blockchain representation—a process known as RWA tokenization. This process involves creating digital tokens on a blockchain that are backed by tangible assets, offering benefits like fractional ownership, enhanced liquidity, and transparent audit trails. Bdan’s first-mover status in South Korea granted it valuable regulatory experience and early market trust. For Focus AI, the exchange is not merely a platform but a critical distribution channel and regulatory asset. The table below contrasts the core competencies each entity brings to the merged operation: Focus AI (Acquirer) Busan Digital Asset Exchange (Acquired) Advanced AI and data analytics algorithms Licensed exchange infrastructure and regulatory approval Technology for automated compliance and risk assessment Established pipeline for real-world asset tokenization Development resources for new fintech products Existing user base and industry partnerships Capital for business expansion and scaling Specialized knowledge in STO and RWA legal frameworks The synergy is clear. Focus AI’s technological prowess can automate and secure complex processes on Bdan’s platform. Meanwhile, Bdan’s operational and regulatory framework provides the necessary sandbox for innovation. This combination directly supports the stated goal of building a robust digital asset infrastructure business. Furthermore, it allows the new entity to compete more effectively against both traditional financial institutions and other crypto-native exchanges expanding into tokenization. Expert Analysis on Market Impact and Future Trajectory Financial technology experts point to several immediate impacts from this concluded acquisition. First, it accelerates the institutionalization of South Korea’s digital asset market. A well-capitalized, technology-focused owner like Focus AI can invest in the security, scalability, and user experience required by large-scale investors. Second, it places significant emphasis on the STO and RWA sectors, potentially drawing more traditional Korean conglomerates (chaebols) into the tokenization space to manage assets or raise capital. The expansion into stablecoin-based payment and settlement services is another critical facet. By integrating a reliable digital currency for transactions, the platform could facilitate instant, low-cost settlement for tokenized asset trades. This creates a closed-loop system from asset tokenization to trading and final settlement. Analysts reference similar models being explored in markets like Singapore and Switzerland, suggesting Focus AI is aligning with a global best-practice trend. The long-term success, however, will hinge on navigating South Korea’s evolving digital asset regulations, particularly the forthcoming framework for security tokens expected from the Financial Services Commission (FSC). Conclusion The finalized Focus AI acquisition of the Busan Digital Asset Exchange is a transformative event for South Korea’s financial technology landscape. It merges cutting-edge artificial intelligence with a specialized regulatory-compliant exchange, creating a powerful entity poised to lead in real-world asset tokenization, security token offerings, and digital payments. This strategic move not only consolidates market position but also signals a mature phase of growth for the digital asset industry, where technology integration and regulatory clarity become paramount. The success of this venture will likely influence the pace and direction of blockchain adoption across the broader Asian financial sector. FAQs Q1: What percentage of the Busan Digital Asset Exchange does Focus AI now own? Focus AI secured a 40.61% stake in Bdan, making it the single largest shareholder and granting it controlling interest in the exchange. Q2: What is RWA tokenization, and why is it important? RWA (Real-World Asset) tokenization is the process of creating digital tokens on a blockchain that represent ownership of a physical asset, like real estate or art. It is important because it can make these assets more liquid, accessible via fractional ownership, and easier to transfer transparently. Q3: What other major shareholder remains in the Busan Digital Asset Exchange? ITcen Global retains an approximate 19% stake in the Busan Digital Asset Exchange following the Focus AI acquisition. Q4: What are the key business areas Focus AI plans to expand through this acquisition? Focus AI plans to expand its digital asset infrastructure business, specifically focusing on RWA tokenization, security token offerings (STOs), and stablecoin-based payment and settlement services. Q5: When was the acquisition of Bdan by Focus AI finalized? The acquisition was finalized on February 27, 2025, when Focus AI completed the final payment to secure its stake, concluding a process that began the previous December. This post Focus AI Completes Transformative Acquisition of Busan Digital Asset Exchange to Dominate RWA Tokenization first appeared on BitcoinWorld .

27 Feb 2026, 04:40

Bitcoin Soars: BTC Price Surges Past $68,000 Milestone in Major Rally

BitcoinWorld Bitcoin Soars: BTC Price Surges Past $68,000 Milestone in Major Rally In a significant move for digital asset markets, Bitcoin (BTC) has surged past the $68,000 threshold, trading at $68,013.99 on the Binance USDT market as of early trading on March 21, 2025. This price action marks a pivotal moment, reigniting discussions about the leading cryptocurrency’s trajectory and its role within the broader financial ecosystem. The breakthrough follows a period of consolidation and represents a key test of market sentiment and institutional confidence. Bitcoin Price Breaches Key Psychological Level The ascent of Bitcoin above $68,000 represents more than a numerical milestone. It signifies a reclaiming of a crucial price zone that has acted as both support and resistance throughout recent market cycles. Market data from major exchanges like Binance confirms sustained buying pressure. Consequently, analysts are scrutinizing order book depth and derivatives market activity for clues about sustainability. This price level often triggers algorithmic trading strategies, potentially amplifying short-term volatility. Therefore, traders monitor these movements with heightened attention. Several immediate technical and fundamental factors appear to be contributing to this rally: Institutional Inflows: Recent filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission show continued accumulation by spot Bitcoin ETF issuers. Macroeconomic Conditions: Shifting expectations around central bank monetary policy can influence asset allocation into non-correlated stores of value. Network Fundamentals: The Bitcoin hash rate remains near all-time highs, signaling robust network security and miner commitment. Market participants now watch the $70,000 level closely. A decisive break above could open the path toward previous all-time highs. Conversely, failure to hold gains may lead to a retest of lower support levels. Historical Context and Market Cycle Analysis Understanding Bitcoin’s current position requires examining its historical price behavior. The journey to $68,000 in 2025 follows a familiar, though never identical, pattern of boom and bust cycles. For instance, the 2021 bull run saw BTC briefly touch approximately $69,000 before a prolonged drawdown. Each cycle, however, builds upon increased network adoption, regulatory clarity, and financial infrastructure. This creates a fundamentally different landscape for price discovery. The table below compares key metrics from previous cycle peaks to the current environment: Metric 2021 Peak (~$69K) Current Environment (2025) Spot ETF Availability None (Futures only) Multiple U.S. Spot ETFs Approved Global Regulatory Stance Highly Uncertain Increasing Framework Development (MiCA, etc.) Institutional Custody Solutions Nascent Mature and Widespread Hash Rate (approx.) ~180 Exahashes/sec ~600 Exahashes/sec This comparative data illustrates a market that has matured significantly. The presence of regulated financial products like spot ETFs provides a new, steady demand channel absent in prior cycles. This structural change underpins many analysts’ long-term bullish thesis, even amidst short-term price fluctuations. Expert Perspectives on Sustainable Growth Financial analysts and blockchain researchers emphasize the importance of looking beyond the price ticker. Dr. Anya Petrova, a lead economist at the Digital Finance Research Group, notes, “While headline prices capture attention, the underlying health of the Bitcoin network is paramount. Metrics like active addresses, settlement volume in dollar terms, and the growth of the Lightning Network for payments tell a more comprehensive story about utility and adoption.” Her research indicates a steady increase in these utility metrics throughout 2024 and into 2025, suggesting a foundation for price appreciation that extends beyond speculative trading. Furthermore, on-chain data analytics firms report a decrease in the amount of BTC held on exchanges. This trend, often called ‘exchange net outflow,’ suggests a preference for long-term holding or self-custody among investors. Typically, a reduction in readily sellable supply on exchanges can reduce selling pressure and increase volatility to the upside if demand rises suddenly. This dynamic is a critical piece of the current market structure that differentiates it from the euphoric, exchange-heavy tops of the past. Global Economic Factors Influencing Cryptocurrency The rally to $68,000 does not occur in a vacuum. Global macroeconomic conditions continue to play a substantial role in asset allocation decisions. Persistent concerns about inflation in certain economies, currency devaluation risks, and geopolitical instability drive some investors to consider Bitcoin as a potential hedge. Its fixed supply schedule and decentralized nature offer a contrasting proposition to traditional fiat currencies. Simultaneously, the correlation between Bitcoin and traditional risk assets like tech stocks has fluctuated. Periods of high correlation challenge the ‘digital gold’ narrative, while periods of decoupling reinforce it. Recent weeks have shown moments of decoupling, where BTC rallied independently of a flat or declining Nasdaq index. This independent price action is crucial for portfolio managers seeking genuine diversification. It strengthens the argument for Bitcoin’s unique value proposition within a modern investment portfolio. Regulatory developments also provide a backdrop. The gradual implementation of frameworks like the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation provides clearer rules for service providers. While compliance brings costs, it also reduces systemic uncertainty—a factor that has historically weighed on institutional adoption. A more predictable regulatory environment, even a strict one, can be preferable to the ambiguity of the past for long-term capital. Conclusion Bitcoin’s rise above $68,000 marks a significant event in the ongoing evolution of cryptocurrency markets. This movement reflects a complex interplay of technical breakout, improved market infrastructure, shifting macroeconomic winds, and deepening network fundamentals. While price volatility remains an inherent feature, the context of this rally differs meaningfully from previous cycles due to institutional participation and regulatory maturation. The key focus for observers now will be whether this Bitcoin price level can consolidate as a new support floor, paving the way for the next phase of the market. The coming weeks will test the conviction of both bulls and bears, providing critical data on the market’s underlying strength and direction. FAQs Q1: What does Bitcoin trading above $68,000 mean for the market? It represents a breach of a major psychological and technical resistance level. This often indicates strong bullish sentiment and can trigger further buying from momentum-based traders and algorithms. It also brings the asset closer to testing its all-time high price. Q2: How does the current rally compare to Bitcoin’s 2021 peak? The current environment is structurally different. The approval of U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs in early 2024 created a new, regulated avenue for institutional investment that did not exist in 2021. Additionally, network security (hash rate) and overall adoption metrics are significantly higher now. Q3: What are the main drivers behind Bitcoin’s price increase? Key drivers include sustained net inflows into spot Bitcoin ETFs, a macroeconomic landscape favoring alternative stores of value, positive developments in global cryptocurrency regulation, and strong underlying network fundamentals like hash rate and adoption. Q4: Could the price fall back below $68,000 quickly? Yes, cryptocurrency markets are notoriously volatile. A sharp price reversal is always possible due to profit-taking, negative news, or shifts in broader market risk appetite. Traders often watch for the price to hold above a key level for a sustained period to confirm its strength as support. Q5: How do spot Bitcoin ETFs affect the price? Spot ETFs create constant daily demand pressure when they experience net inflows. The issuers must purchase actual Bitcoin to back the shares they create, directly removing supply from the market. This mechanism provides a structural, non-speculative source of demand that was largely absent in previous bull markets. This post Bitcoin Soars: BTC Price Surges Past $68,000 Milestone in Major Rally first appeared on BitcoinWorld .

27 Feb 2026, 04:00

Bitcoin Stabilizes At $68K as Fund Flow Ratios Signal An Institutional Standstill

Bitcoin is currently testing the $69,000 level as resistance after rebounding from the $64,000 zone, attempting to recover from its recent corrective phase. While the short-term momentum appears constructive, broader market conditions suggest that conviction remains limited. The move higher is unfolding in an environment characterized by reduced participation and compressed liquidity. According to top analyst Darkfost, February is on track to close as the month with the lowest Bitcoin spot trading volumes since the beginning of 2024. This contraction in activity coincides with BTC revisiting price levels last observed last year, reinforcing the perception of a market stuck in a defensive posture rather than entering a renewed expansion phase. Despite the slowdown, Binance continues to dominate spot trading with nearly $75 billion in monthly volume, significantly ahead of Gate.io at $25 billion and Bybit at $20 billion. However, overall liquidity across the crypto market remains constrained, particularly following the October 10 shock that saw open interest decline by more than 70,000 BTC — roughly $8 billion in notional value. Spot Volume Contraction Signals Market Caution The ongoing decline in spot trading activity provides a useful lens for understanding current Bitcoin market dynamics. Darkfost notes that participation across major exchanges has fallen markedly since the October peak, with aggregate spot volumes roughly halved. Binance’s monthly volume has dropped from about $198 billion to $75 billion, Gate.io from $53 billion to $25 billion, and Bybit from $41 billion to roughly $20 billion. The fact that this pattern spans multiple leading venues suggests a systemic shift rather than exchange-specific behavior. From a market-structure perspective, shrinking spot volumes typically indicate reduced conviction. When liquidity thins, price moves can become less reliable because they are driven by smaller capital flows. This environment often coincides with consolidation phases, where both buyers and sellers adopt a wait-and-see approach rather than aggressively positioning. Importantly, weaker spot participation can delay trend formation. Sustained bullish recoveries historically require expanding spot demand, as derivatives-driven rallies alone tend to lack durability. Conversely, declining spot flows may also reflect capital rotation toward other asset classes amid macro uncertainty. The key variable will be whether spot participation stabilizes or begins to recover. A meaningful rebound in volumes would signal renewed confidence, whereas continued contraction would reinforce the current defensive market posture. Bitcoin Consolidates Below Key Moving Averages Bitcoin’s daily chart shows a market attempting to stabilize after a decisive breakdown from the $90,000–$95,000 consolidation zone. The sharp selloff into the low $60,000s was accompanied by a notable spike in volume, suggesting forced liquidation and aggressive distribution rather than orderly rotation. Since then, price has rebounded toward the $68,000–$69,000 area, which now acts as near-term resistance. Technically, BTC remains below the 50-day, 100-day, and 200-day moving averages, all of which are trending downward. This alignment confirms a bearish momentum structure. The 50-day average has crossed below the 100-day, reinforcing short-term weakness, while the 200-day sits significantly above the current price, signaling that longer-term trend recovery is not yet underway. The recent sideways movement near $68,000 appears corrective within a broader downtrend. Higher lows have not yet been established on a structural basis, and upside attempts lack expanding volume support. For a meaningful shift in sentiment, Bitcoin would need to reclaim the $72,000–$75,000 zone and close above declining moving averages. Until that occurs, rallies are likely to face selling pressure, with downside risk remaining toward the $60,000 support cluster if momentum weakens again. Featured image from ChatGPT, chart from TradingView.com

27 Feb 2026, 03:18

Ethereum Price Signals Fresh Rally Attempt, Traders Watch Key Levels

Ethereum price started a major rally above the $2,020 resistance. ETH is now consolidating gains and might aim for another increase above $2,050. Ethereum started a fresh upward move above the $1,980 zone. The price is trading above $2,000 and the 100-hourly Simple Moving Average. There is a new bearish trend line forming with resistance at $2,040 on the hourly chart of ETH/USD (data feed via Kraken). The pair could start a fresh decline if it stays below the $2,080 zone. Ethereum Price Dips To Support Ethereum price managed to form a base and traded above the $1,950 resistance, like Bitcoin . ETH price rallied above the $2,020 and $2,050 resistance levels. The bulls even pumped the price above $2,120. A high was formed at $2,158 before there was a downside correction . The price dipped below $2,000 and tested the 50% Fib retracement level of the upward move from the $1,792 swing low to the $2,158 high before the bulls appeared. Ethereum price is now trading above $2,020 and the 100-hourly Simple Moving Average. If the bulls remain in action above $1,975, the price could attempt another increase. Immediate resistance is seen near the $2,040 level and the trend line. The first key resistance is near the $2,080 level. The next major resistance is near the $2,120 level. A clear move above the $2,120 resistance might send the price toward the $2,155 resistance. An upside break above the $2,155 region might call for more gains in the coming days. In the stated case, Ether could rise toward the $2,220 resistance zone or even $2,250 in the near term. Downside Continuation In ETH? If Ethereum fails to clear the $2,040 resistance, it could start a fresh decline. Initial support on the downside is near the $2,000 level. The first major support sits near the $1,975 zone. A clear move below the $1,975 support might push the price toward the $1,935 support or the 61.8% Fib retracement level of the upward move from the $1,792 swing low to the $2,158 high. Any more losses might send the price toward the $1,900 region. The main support could be $1,880. Technical Indicators Hourly MACD – The MACD for ETH/USD is gaining momentum in the bullish zone. Hourly RSI – The RSI for ETH/USD is now above the 50 zone. Major Support Level – $1,975 Major Resistance Level – $2,080

27 Feb 2026, 03:00

Bitcoin Demand Growing For First Time Since November, Data Shows

On-chain data shows spot demand for Bitcoin is returning as the Apparent Demand metric has started to grow for the first time since late November. Bitcoin Apparent Demand Has Seen Its 30-Day Sum Turn Green In a new post on X, CryptoQuant head of research Julio Moreno has discussed the latest trend in the Apparent Demand of Bitcoin. This on-chain indicator provides an estimate for the spot demand for the cryptocurrency that’s present on the network right now. It does so by comparing two metrics: the mining issuance and change in the 1-year inactive supply. The mining issuance is the amount of the asset that miners are ‘minting’ on the blockchain every day through their mining activities. It can be considered as a measure of the asset’s total production. In contrast, the 1-year inactive supply, corresponding to coins dormant since more than one year ago, represents the cryptocurrency’s inventory. When the value of the Apparent Demand is positive, it means the decrease in the inventory exceeds the production. Such a trend suggests demand for BTC is going up. On the other hand, the indicator being negative implies coins are being stashed away in inventory, potentially because of a lack of fresh activity. Now, here is the chart shared by Moreno that shows the trend in the 30-day sum of the Bitcoin Apparent Demand over the last few months: As displayed in the above graph, the Bitcoin Apparent Demand saw its 30-day sum plummet deep into the red zone during December, implying demand for the cryptocurrency was muted. The metric persisted at these lows during the first half of January, but things started to reverse in the month’s second half. The Apparent Demand remained at slight negative levels for much of February, but recently, a reversal into the positive territory has finally taken place. “Bitcoin spot demand is growing for the first time since late November,” noted the analyst. For now, the metric’s green level is still relatively small, so it only remains to be seen whether it will go up further in the near future. In related news, the Coinbase Premium Index has also flipped green for Bitcoin recently, as CryptoQuant founder Ki Young Ju has pointed out in an X post . The Coinbase Premium Index tracks the percentage difference between the BTC price on Coinbase (USD pair) and that on Binance (USDT pair). In other words, it reflects how Coinbase’s US-centric traffic differs in behavior from Binance’s global userbase. From the chart, it’s visible that the metric shot up into the positive territory alongside the latest price surge, a potential sign that accumulation from American institutions backed the rally. BTC Price At the time of writing, Bitcoin is floating around $68,000, up 4% in the last 24 hours.