Spot trading volume halved, demand dropped to a low point: Why have Bitcoin and the crypto market fallen into a "liquidity winter"?

BTC1,09%

On February 3, news reports and the latest on-chain and market data reveal that the spot cryptocurrency trading volume has fallen to its lowest point since 2024, indicating a significant weakening in investor demand. Analysts point out that the spot trading volume on major platforms has plummeted from a high of approximately $2 trillion in October 2025 to about $1 trillion at the end of January this year, nearly halving.

Bitcoin is currently around $78,500, down approximately 37.5% from its peak in October. CryptoQuant analyst Darkfost stated that spot demand is “rapidly drying up,” and this round of correction was mainly triggered by a large-scale liquidation event in October, which has continued to ferment amid liquidity tightening and rising risk aversion. Data from the organization show that Bitcoin spot trading volumes on multiple platforms have declined simultaneously, reflecting a significant decrease in market activity.

Moreover, market liquidity is also under pressure. Funds in stablecoins are flowing out of trading platforms, with the related market cap shrinking by about $10 billion, seen as another signal of waning risk appetite. Justin d’Anethan, head of research at Arctic Digital, pointed out that in the short term, Bitcoin faces major macroeconomic pressures, including uncertain interest rate outlooks, a strengthening dollar, and rising real yields, all of which will suppress the performance of risk assets.

However, he also believes that if there is subsequent ETF fund inflow, clearer cryptocurrency legislation in the U.S., or economic data forcing policymakers to shift back to easing, the market could still see a strong rebound. He described the current correction as “bitter but necessary,” helping to clear excessive leverage and suppress speculation.

From a cyclical perspective, Joao Wedson, CEO of Alphractal, pointed out that Bitcoin’s true bottom still requires conditions such as long-term holders beginning to realize losses. Currently, short-term holders are already at a loss, but if the price falls below the key level of $74,000, the market may enter a deeper correction phase.

Disclaimer: The information on this page may come from third parties and does not represent the views or opinions of Gate. The content displayed on this page is for reference only and does not constitute any financial, investment, or legal advice. Gate does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information and shall not be liable for any losses arising from the use of this information. Virtual asset investments carry high risks and are subject to significant price volatility. You may lose all of your invested principal. Please fully understand the relevant risks and make prudent decisions based on your own financial situation and risk tolerance. For details, please refer to Disclaimer.

Related Articles

The Good and Bad News for Ethereum (ETH) After Dumping Below $2K

ETH joined the market-wide correction over the past few days, dropping from $2,200 to a three-week low of $1,970 before it recovered slightly to the current $2,000. This is the asset’s most crucial level for the time being, and it’s close to breaking below it. As such, analysts have rushed to

CryptoPotato23m ago

Exchange “Listing Curse” Investigation: Why do 89% of new coins end up as retail-trader bait?

After being listed on Binance, most tokens faced severe losses, with an average pullback range of 71% to 80%. Listing is no longer seen as an investment opportunity, but rather as an insider sell-off event. The main reasons include internal liquidity events, overvaluation, weak capital flows, and market saturation; only projects with real products and communities can survive in the future.

区块客56m ago

3 Promising Altcoins to Hold for Long-Term Profit — XRP, DOGE, and SOL

XRP shows strong breakout momentum, backed by bullish indicators and upcoming RLUSD launch. DOGE forms a bullish pennant pattern, supported by strong community and key resistance breakout. SOL gains traction through DeFi growth, with cup and handle patterns targeting higher prices. The c

CryptoNewsLand1h ago

When to Buy Bitcoin Next? Analyst Outlines Exact Entry Levels

Bitcoin dumped hard in early February, plunging to a 15-month low of $60,000. This meant that it had shed over 50% of its value since early October when it peaked at over $126,000. Although it has recovered roughly 20% since that low and sits close to $72,000 now, there are still some analysts

CryptoPotato1h ago

Retail investors drive widespread bitcoin selling as prices fall

Glassnode's Accumulation Trend Score indicates widespread selling led by retail investors as Bitcoin dips below $67,000, primarily from those holding under 10 BTC, while larger entities hold back, showing neutral behavior.

CoinDesk2h ago

Altcoin Bloodbath Negative Impulse Crushes Bulls at 40%!

Recent data shows negative impulse metrics dominate the altcoin market, indicating selling pressure outweighs buying momentum. Altcoins lag behind Bitcoin, struggling with weak recoveries and short-lived rallies, signaling a cautious market. A shift to positive indicators is needed for potential reversal.

Coinfomania2h ago
Comment
0/400
No comments