- After 4 years of mirroring the Nasdaq, Bitcoin stands alone at $46,826, fueled by potential ETF approval.
- Bitcoin can act as both bull market rebel and bear market follower.
- Decoupling opens doors for Bitcoin as a portfolio diversifier, strategy leader, and research source.
In a notable development, Bitcoin has recently ended its four-year trend of closely tracking the Nasdaq, now standing strong at a trading value of $46,826. This shift has stirred considerable interest and speculation within the cryptocurrency community.
In this article, we will delve into the reason behind this decoupling, and its implications for the future of Bitcoin and the broader crypto market.
Understanding the Breakup: Factors Behind Bitcoin’s Decoupling
The separation between Bitcoin and the Nasdaq is not arbitrary but rooted in specific factors. A primary catalyst has been the heightened expectation for the approval of a spot Bitcoin ETF by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Since October, there has been considerable focus on the possibility that the SEC will greenlight multiple spot ETF applications by January 10.
Such approval could accelerate Bitcoin’s journey towards broader acceptance as a distinct asset class.
Bitcoin & the traditional markets
Contrary to fixed perceptions, the correlation between Bitcoin and traditional indices can vary. Research from Fidelity Digital Assets highlights an intriguing trend: during bullish periods, Bitcoin’s correlation with the S&P 500 drops to approximately 0.3.
However, during bearish phases, this correlation rises to about 0.7. This evolving relationship underscores Bitcoin’s maturation as an asset, indicating a gradual detachment from broader market fluctuations.
Also Read: SEC Comments on Bitcoin ETF Applications Suggest Possible Delays – Here’s What to Expect
Implications for Investors
The decoupling between Bitcoin and Nasdaq has several influences on investors as it means that Bitcoin can now serve as a portfolio diversifier, fairlead strategies, and a research provider. This development by Bitcoin is significant as it suggests that investors can now include it in their portfolios without worrying about its correlation with other risk assets.
The Path Ahead
As Bitcoin gains independence, it is likely to experience increased price volatility, influenced more by its intrinsic characteristics than external factors. While this volatility may present challenges for risk-averse investors, it offers opportunities for those willing to navigate the associated risks in pursuit of potentially higher returns.
Did You Know? Standard Chartered Predicts $50-$100 Billion in Bitcoin Inflows Following Spot ETF Approval
