The Bitcoin market has shown high volatility in April, having produced similar levels of gains and losses over the past three weeks. Amidst the choppy price action, Bitcoin whales appear to be increasing their holdings, perhaps in anticipation of future price gains.

Bitcoin Whales Add 53,600 BTC, Now Hold 68% Of Supply

In an X post on April 18, prominent blockchain analytics firm Santiment has provided valuable insight on the recent behavior of the major Bitcoin stakeholders. Despite the BTC market still displaying significant levels of uncertainty, Santiment reports a strong confidence level among investors holding between 10 and 10,000 BTC. The analytics firm states that these key Bitcoin holders have accumulated 53,600 BTC from March 22, and now control 67.77% of Bitcoin in circulation. During the period of this accumulation spree, the BTC market has failed to establish a clear price direction with significant swings in either direction mediated by periods of tight consolidation.

Notably, BTC dropped by 13% in early April, twice retesting the $74,000 support level before rebounding to reach a high of $88,000 on April 15. Since then, it has entered a consolidation phase, fluctuating within a range of $83,000 to $86,000.

The ongoing accumulation trend among Bitcoin whales amid this price uncertainty signals growing market confidence, as major holders appear to be positioning for a potential rally. For retail traders, this behavior serves as a strong bullish indicator, suggesting that there is sufficient underlying demand to drive and sustain further price appreciation.

What Next For Bitcoin?

Following the inauguration of US President Donald Trump in January, Bitcoin has fallen victim to the macroeconomic factors as new tariff policies have caused significant market panic among investors. Since hitting an all time high around $109,000 on January 20, the premier cryptocurrency slipped into market correction to trade as low as $74,000 on April 7 and 9.

Notably, the premier cryptocurrency produced a price rebound from these market lows, as the US Government announced a 90-day new tariff pause. However, the ongoing consolidation that has lasted over the past week indicates the lack of a bullish market catalyst. Bitcoin enthusiasts will hope for positive developments, including a potential Federal Reserve rate cut following recent pressure from Trump.

For multiple analysts, Bitcoin must cross the $91,000 resistance to validate any potential for a sustainable bullish uptrend. If this price gain occurs, the leading cryptocurrency is tipped for a return to its all-time high and perhaps new price discovery. At press time, Bitcoin continues to trade at $85,226, reflecting a price gain of 0.72% in the past day.

Featured image from Pexels, chart from Tradingview