170,000 BTC on the Move: Bitcoin Price Volatility Set to Surge, Says CryptoQuant
Short-Term Bitcoin Holders Are Stirring — And That Could Shake Up the Market
Bitcoin price stability may be short-lived, as on-chain data reveals a major shift among speculative investors. CryptoQuant analysts warn that the movement of 170,000 BTC — purchased just three to six months ago — suggests “significant volatility is imminent.”
In an April 18 update, the on-chain analytics platform sounded the alarm, pointing to the behavior of short-term holders (STHs) as a classic precursor to sharp market fluctuations.
“Volatility is coming,” wrote CryptoQuant contributor Mignolet, highlighting a spike in Bitcoin activity not seen since late 2021.
Speculators Wake Up: 170K BTC in Motion
The 170,000 BTC now circulating on-chain belong to entities that bought between three to six months ago — a segment known for reacting quickly to market changes. This group has historically triggered major price swings, both upward and downward.
“Large movements from this group often signal that significant volatility is imminent,” Mignolet noted.
A CryptoQuant chart confirms this is the largest STH movement by volume in nearly three years, underscoring the potential for a breakout from recent sideways trading.
Panic Selling or Profit-Taking?
While long-term holders remain calm, it’s the short-term cohort that’s driving current selling pressure. A separate CryptoQuant post by contributor Crazzyblockk reported that STHs are offloading an average of ~930 BTC per day to exchanges, compared to only ~529 BTC/day by long-term holders (LTHs).
“Short-Term Holders have been the primary sellers,” he wrote.
“This suggests fear or profit-taking — not a broad market collapse.”
Bitcoin’s “Classic Shakeout” in Progress
This isn’t a mass exodus. Instead, analysts describe the activity as a “classic shakeout” — a phase where nervous or opportunistic traders react, while smart money holds firm.
“The current correction is more likely a reaction from short-term and mid-tier holders,” Crazzyblockk explained.
“It’s not a uniform exit across the investor landscape.”
As Bitcoin continues to trade sideways and compress in volatility, market watchers are bracing for a breakout — and the behavior of STHs may dictate whether BTC’s next move is skyward or downward.
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