Bitcoin markets experienced a sharp bout of volatility after short-term holders offloaded roughly 60,000 BTC to exchanges within a 24-hour window, marking the largest single-day sell-off recorded on February 5, 2026. The move added significant short-term pressure to price action and highlighted the fragile state of market sentiment.
What Happened
On-chain data shows that short-term holders typically more reactive to price swings moved a large volume of BTC to exchanges, signaling intent to sell. This sudden increase in exchange inflows drove netflows sharply higher, amplifying immediate supply pressure in the market.
Market Reaction
Bitcoin prices reacted quickly to the surge in available supply, extending recent downside moves and increasing intraday volatility. Exchange balances fluctuated noticeably, reflecting heightened uncertainty and rapid shifts in trader positioning. The sell-off reinforced the market’s sensitivity to short-term speculative behavior.
Sentiment and Holder Behavior
While short-term holders appeared to capitulate, long-term holders showed restraint, with selling activity slowing noticeably. At the same time, data suggests selective whale accumulation, a pattern often associated with late-stage corrections. According to CoinShares’ Head of Research James Butterfill, the move reflects a “marked deterioration in investor sentiment,” particularly among faster-moving participants.
Historical Context
Historically, large-scale liquidations by short-term holders have often preceded market resets rather than prolonged downturns. Similar events in past cycles aligned with periods of financial stress, eventually giving way to stabilization once speculative pressure eased.
What Comes Next
Looking ahead, analysts expect a cautious consolidation phase rather than an immediate recovery. If long-term holders continue to hold and institutional interest remains steady, Bitcoin reserves on exchanges could stabilize. Regulatory clarity and sustained on-chain accumulation may help rebuild confidence, setting the stage for renewed bullish momentum after the correction runs its course.
Bottom Line
The 60,000 BTC release underscores how short-term holder behavior can sharply impact Bitcoin’s price and volatility. While the sell-off intensified near-term weakness, declining long-term selling and signs of strategic accumulation suggest the market may be closer to a local bottom than a structural breakdown.
