Despite crossing $100K, Bitcoin price stagnation continues due to whale selloffs, ETF inflows, and market maturity. Learn why BTC isn’t rising and what could trigger the next rally.
Why Bitcoin Price Stagnation Continues After Crossing $100K
Bitcoin made history by crossing the $100,000 milestone, but the excitement was short-lived. Instead of skyrocketing, the Bitcoin price entered a phase of sideways movement. This ongoing Bitcoin price stagnation has puzzled investors and analysts alike.
So, what’s really going on? Why isn’t Bitcoin climbing, even when institutional investments and ETFs are pouring money into the market?
This article explores the key reasons behind the Bitcoin price stagnation, including whale activity, ETF demand, and market evolution.
Bitcoin’s Journey to $100,000: A Historic Breakthrough
In December, Bitcoin finally crossed the $100,000 mark for the first time. It later surged to $106,000 following political developments, including the re-election of Donald Trump, which brought hopes of favorable crypto regulations.
However, those gains didn’t last. In April, Bitcoin tumbled to $75,000 amid new U.S. tariffs on imports. By late May, it bounced back to $111,000 when inflation fears cooled off.
Still, the overall trend shows Bitcoin price stagnation, hovering between $100K and $110K without a major breakout.
Whale Investors Are Selling at $100K
One of the major reasons behind the Bitcoin price stagnation is selling pressure from whales — early adopters who hold large amounts of Bitcoin, often more than 1,000 BTC each.
Vijay Boyapati, a respected Bitcoin analyst, believes that $100,000 was a “psychological target” for these investors. Many of them are now taking profits after holding for years.
“The $100K mark was a magic number for many long-term holders. Their selling balances out the demand from new institutional buyers,” Boyapati shared on X.
Whale selling is creating resistance, stopping Bitcoin from moving higher despite strong demand from ETFs and large firms.
Institutional Demand: Record Inflows Aren’t Enough (Yet)
In 2025, the market saw record-breaking activity from institutional investors:
- Public companies now hold over 819,000 BTC (around 4% of the total supply).
- Spot ETFs have attracted more than $44.6 billion in BTC investments.
Despite this, the Bitcoin price stagnation continues.
Why?
Because ETF inflows may not always mean new money. Some of it could simply be reallocated from other Bitcoin holdings. This dampens the impact on price.
Redistribution, Not Manipulation
Some people believe whales are manipulating the market. But Boyapati disagrees. He says this isn’t about market control—it’s about redistribution.
When large holders sell, their BTC is bought by newer, more diverse investors, including institutions like BlackRock and Fidelity.
“The monetisation of Bitcoin requires broader ownership. That can’t happen unless early holders release some of their coins,” says Boyapati.
So, instead of viewing Bitcoin price stagnation as negative, it’s better seen as part of a natural growth cycle.
On-Chain Data Confirms Whale Selling
On-chain metrics back up this idea. Matteo Greco, a crypto analyst at Fineqia, noted that long-term holders have taken significant profits recently:
- Long-term holders earned over $1 billion in realised profits in the past 30 days.
- Short-term holders made around $350 million in the same period.
This suggests that the majority of selling is driven by early investors cashing out, contributing to the ongoing Bitcoin price
Is This the Start of a More Mature Bitcoin Market?
Not all experts are worried. In fact, some see this phase as a positive sign for the market.
Tracy Jin, COO of MEXC Exchange, believes institutional investors bring long-term stability.
Unlike retail traders, institutions have the capital and patience to hold long-term. This builds market maturity, strength, and trust.
So while Bitcoin price stagnation may feel frustrating, it could be a necessary part of Bitcoin’s transition into a global financial asset.
What Could Trigger the Next Bitcoin Breakout?
To move beyond this consolidation phase, Bitcoin needs a strong market catalyst. Here are three possibilities:
1. Clear Crypto Regulation
Governments are working on clearer rules for digital assets. Once implemented, these rules could encourage more adoption and reduce investor fear.
2. Corporate Treasury Support
If major companies start holding Bitcoin on their balance sheets again, like Tesla or MicroStrategy, it could signal new trust in BTC.
3. Global Economic Pressure
Falling inflation, lower interest rates, or currency devaluation could push more investors toward Bitcoin as a store of value.
Each of these events could help lift Bitcoin price stagnation and create the momentum needed for the next bull run.
Should You Be Worried About Bitcoin Price Stagnation?
It’s important to remember that sideways markets are common in Bitcoin history. These periods often come after a major price milestone and before a new surge.
Here’s what makes this cycle different:
- Strong institutional backing
- Better regulatory discussions
- Increased public awareness
Instead of signalling weakness, Bitcoin price stagnation might simply be the calm before the storm.
Final Thoughts: Stagnation Isn’t the End — It’s the Transition
Bitcoin reaching $100,000 was a huge milestone. The current Bitcoin price stagnation is not a setback, but part of the asset’s journey toward mainstream adoption.
Whale selling is helping to redistribute Bitcoin to newer investors, and ETFs are building a strong foundation for long-term growth.
If you’re in it for the long haul, this may just be the perfect accumulation phase — a period to learn, prepare, and position yourself for the next big move.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is Bitcoin not rising after reaching $100K?
Because large holders (whales) are selling their coins, balancing out the buying pressure from ETFs and institutions.
Is Bitcoin price stagnation a bad sign?
Not necessarily. It can be part of a healthy market phase where wealth is redistributed and long-term growth is being built.
Will Bitcoin fall below $100K again?
It’s possible in the short term, but most experts see the long-term trend as bullish.
What can break the Bitcoin price stagnation?
Clear crypto laws, more corporate adoption, and better economic conditions may spark the next rally.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. Always do your own research or consult with a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
