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Spot Bitcoin ETFs Pose Threats to South Korea’s Market

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According to a recent analysis by the Korea Institute of Finance (KIF), the introduction of spot Bitcoin (BTC) exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in South Korea could lead to significant economic disruptions.

The report highlights potential unique challenges that the South Korean market might face despite the global trend of approving crypto-linked ETF products.

Potential Pitfalls of Bitcoin ETFs in South Korea

The recent approval and introduction of spot Bitcoin ETFs in various global markets have sparked significant discussions in the South Korean financial community. Lee Bo-mi, a researcher at KIF, expressed concerns over the potential adverse effects of these products in a report titled “Review on Approval of Overseas Virtual Asset Spot ETFs.”

“If the issuance and trading of virtual asset-linked products is allowed, investors can receive institutional protection. While financial companies have the advantage of making profits, there are also side effects,” she explained.

Read more: What Is a Bitcoin ETF?

Lee outlined several potential side effects associated with the introduction of Bitcoin ETFs. These include increased inefficiency in resource allocation, greater exposure to risks tied to virtual assets, and overall undermining of financial stability. Lee emphasized that while institutional investors might benefit from these financial products, the broader economic implications could be detrimental.

For instance, earlier this year, the US Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) approval for spotting Bitcoin ETFs led to significant price volatility. Despite a 40% increase in Bitcoin’s value over five months, virtual assets’ inherent volatility and speculative nature pose considerable risks. The analyst warned that similar volatility in South Korea could destabilize the financial market.

Other financial regulators globally have also approved similar crypto-linked products. In April 2024, the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) approved spot Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs. Subsequently, the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) followed suit in May 2024.

However, each region has tailored its approach to these financial products, reflecting differing regulatory environments and market conditions. For example, Hong Kong’s spot Bitcoin ETFs introduced a cash redemption method. This approach differs from the more cumbersome spot redemption method used in the US.

On the other hand, the UK’s approach restricts investments in these ETFs to institutional investors only. These regional variations underscore the complexity and potential risks of integrating such products into traditional financial systems.

Lee cautioned that introducing Bitcoin ETFs in South Korea might mislead market participants into perceiving virtual assets as fully vetted and stable investment options. This misconception could lead to a significant influx of institutional funds into highly volatile virtual assets.

Consequently, this could create a precarious financial situation. Moreover, the resulting financial instability could compel financial institutions to liquidate traditional assets to secure liquidity, further exacerbating market volatility.

In her report, Lee stressed the importance of strong regulatory measures to mitigate the risks associated with virtual asset-based ETFs. She argued that the South Korean market could face severe repercussions without sufficient oversight and investor protection mechanisms.

Read more: How To Trade a Bitcoin ETF: A Step-by-Step Approach

The rapid growth of the virtual asset market and the proliferation of related financial products necessitate a cautious and well-regulated approach. Lee called for comprehensive regulatory measures to safeguard the financial market and protect investors. She noted that the impact of virtual assets on the financial system remains uncertain, highlighting the urgent need for regulations that can adapt to the changing market dynamics.

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Strategy Adds 22,048 BTC for Nearly $2 Billion

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Michael Saylor announced that Strategy purchased nearly $2 billion worth of Bitcoin. This is a massive leap over last week’s purchase, which was already quite substantial.

Nonetheless, the firm was only able to make this acquisition thanks to major stock offerings. Bitcoin’s price has been sinking over the last few weeks, and this could mature into a potential liquidation crisis.

Strategy Maintains Bitcoin Purchases

Since Strategy (formerly MicroStrategy) began acquiring Bitcoin, it’s become one of the world’s largest BTC holders. This plan has totally reoriented the company around its massive acquisitions, inspiring other firms to take up the same plan.

Today, the firm’s Chair, Michael Saylor, announced another purchase, much larger than the last few.

“Strategy has acquired 22,048 BTC for ~$1.92 billion at ~$86,969 per bitcoin and has achieved BTC Yield of 11.0% YTD 2025. As of 3/30/2025, Strategy holds 528,185 BTC acquired for ~$35.63 billion at ~$67,458 per bitcoin,” Saylor claimed via social media.

Strategy’s latest Bitcoin acquisition, worth just shy of $2 billion, is a major commitment. In February, the firm made a similar $2 billion purchase, and it was followed by a tiny $10 million buy and a $500 million one. The $500 million purchase, which took place on March 24, only happened thanks to a huge new stock offering. This move further cements Strategy’s faith in BTC.

By making these billion-dollar buys, Strategy is able to buttress the entire market’s confidence in Bitcoin. However, investors should be aware of a few potential cracks.

First of all, Bitcoin’s performance is a little subpar at the moment. Despite hitting an all-time high recently, Bitcoin is having its worst quarter since 2019, and there is not much forward momentum.

Bitcoin (BTC) Price Performance
Bitcoin (BTC) Price Performance. Source: BeInCrypto

This could cause a unique problem for the company. Since Strategy is a cornerstone of market confidence, it is unable to offload its assets without jeopardizing Bitcoin’s price.

The firm’s debts are growing at a fast rate, and this could have dangerous implications if Bitcoin keeps falling. Strategy could be forced to liquidate, even if that seems unlikely now.

Still, it’s important to remember that these are only possible scenarios. Strategy has maintained its consistent Bitcoin investments for nearly five years, and it’s paid off tremendously well. However, if it keeps taking on billions in fresh debt obligations, this faith will turn into a gamble with very high stakes.

Disclaimer

In adherence to the Trust Project guidelines, BeInCrypto is committed to unbiased, transparent reporting. This news article aims to provide accurate, timely information. However, readers are advised to verify facts independently and consult with a professional before making any decisions based on this content. Please note that our Terms and ConditionsPrivacy Policy, and Disclaimers have been updated.



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BTC Price Rebound Likely as Long-Term Holders Reenter Market

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Bitcoin (BTC) is on track to end Q1 with its worst performance since 2019. Without an unexpected recovery, BTC could close the quarter with a 25% decline from its all-time high (ATH).

Some analysts have noted that experienced Bitcoin holders are shifting into an accumulation phase, signaling potential price growth in the medium term.

Signs That Veteran Investors Are Accumulating Again

According to AxelAdlerJr, March 2025 marks a transition period where veteran investors move from selling to holding and accumulating. This shift is reflected in the Value Days Destroyed (VDD) metric, which remains low.

VDD is an on-chain indicator that tracks investor behavior by measuring the number of days Bitcoin remains unmoved before being transacted.

A high VDD suggests that older Bitcoin is being moved, which may indicate selling pressure from whales or long-term holders. A low VDD suggests that most transactions involve short-term holders, who have a smaller impact on the market.

BTC: Value Days Destroyed. Source: CryptoQuant.
BTC: Value Days Destroyed. Source: CryptoQuant

Historically, low VDD periods often precede strong price rallies. These phases suggest that investors are accumulating Bitcoin with expectations of future price increases. AxelAdlerJr concludes that this shift signals Bitcoin’s potential for medium-term growth.

“The transition of experienced players into a holding (accumulation) phase signals the potential for further BTC growth in the medium term,” AxelAdlerJr predicted.

Bitcoin’s Sell-Side Risk Ratio Hits Low

At the same time, analyst Ali highlighted another bullish indicator: Bitcoin’s sell-side risk ratio had dropped to 0.086%.

Bitcoin Sell-side Rish Ratio. Source: Glassnode
Bitcoin Sell-side Rish Ratio. Source: Glassnode

According to Ali, over the past two years, every time this ratio fell below 0.1%, Bitcoin experienced a strong price rebound. For example, in January 2024, Bitcoin surged to a then-all-time high of $73,800 after the sell-side risk ratio dipped below 0.1%.

Similarly, in September 2024, Bitcoin hit a new peak after this metric reached a low level.

The combination of veteran investors accumulating Bitcoin and a sharp decline in the sell-side risk ratio are positive signals for the market. However, a recent analysis from BeInCrypto warns of concerning technical patterns, with a death cross beginning to form.

Additionally, investors remain cautious about potential market volatility in early April. The uncertainty stems from President Trump’s upcoming announcement regarding a major retaliatory tariff.

Disclaimer

In adherence to the Trust Project guidelines, BeInCrypto is committed to unbiased, transparent reporting. This news article aims to provide accurate, timely information. However, readers are advised to verify facts independently and consult with a professional before making any decisions based on this content. Please note that our Terms and ConditionsPrivacy Policy, and Disclaimers have been updated.



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Marathon Digital to Sell $2 Billion in Stock to Buy Bitcoin

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Marathon Digital Holdings, one of the largest Bitcoin mining companies in the US, made headlines with its announcement of a $2 billion stock offering to increase its Bitcoin holdings. 

This strategic move, detailed in recent SEC filings, shows Marathon’s aggressive approach to capitalize on the growing crypto market. 

Marathon’s $2 Billion Stock Offering: Key Details

On March 30, 2025, Marathon Digital Holdings announced a $2 billion at-the-market (ATM) stock offering to fund its strategy of acquiring more Bitcoin. The company filed a Form 8-K with the SEC, outlining its plan to raise capital through the sale of shares, with the proceeds primarily aimed at increasing its Bitcoin holdings. 

According to the SEC filing (Form 424B5), Marathon intends to use the funds for “general corporate purposes,” which include purchasing additional Bitcoin and supporting operational needs.

Marathon holds 46,376 BTC, making it the second-largest publicly traded company in Bitcoin ownership, behind MicroStrategy. The company’s Bitcoin holdings have grown significantly in recent years, from 13,726 BTC in early 2024 to the current figure. 

“We believe we are the second largest holder of bitcoin among publicly traded companies. From time to time, we enter into forward or option contracts and/or lend bitcoin to increase yield on our Bitcoin holdings.” Marathon confirmed

This $2 billion stock offering continues Marathon’s strategy to bolster its balance sheet with Bitcoin, a move that aligns with its long-term vision of leveraging cryptocurrency as a store of value.

Marathon’s strategy mirrors that of MicroStrategy. MicroStrategy’s stock price has soared with Bitcoin’s value, providing a blueprint for companies like Marathon to follow. By increasing its Bitcoin holdings, Marathon aims to position itself as a leader in the crypto mining sector while diversifying its revenue streams beyond traditional mining operations.

Marathon Digital CEO Fred Thiel advises investing small amounts in Bitcoin monthly, citing its consistent long-term growth potential.

The issuance of new shares to raise $2 billion could dilute the ownership of existing shareholders, potentially impacting the company’s stock price (MARA). As of March 31, 2025, MARA stock has experienced volatility, trading at around $12.47 per share, down from a 52-week high of $24, according to data from Yahoo Finance.

Moreover, Marathon’s heavy reliance on Bitcoin exposes it to the cryptocurrency’s price fluctuations. If Bitcoin’s price were to decline significantly, the value of Marathon’s holdings would decrease, potentially straining its financial position.

Disclaimer

In adherence to the Trust Project guidelines, BeInCrypto is committed to unbiased, transparent reporting. This news article aims to provide accurate, timely information. However, readers are advised to verify facts independently and consult with a professional before making any decisions based on this content. Please note that our Terms and ConditionsPrivacy Policy, and Disclaimers have been updated.



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