BlackRock's iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) saw its largest daily net inflow in the past year, with $665.16 million flowing into the fund on Monday. This surge, the biggest since October 7, 2025, highlights strong institutional demand for bitcoin despite ongoing macroeconomic challenges. The inflow drove U.S. spot bitcoin ETFs to a net inflow of $526.6 million for the day, even as outflows from Fidelity's and Grayscale's funds partially offset IBIT's gains.
Meanwhile, spot ether ETFs continued their negative streak, recording $103.3 million in net outflows for the fourth consecutive day. Bitcoin itself remained range-bound between $82,000 and $83,000, as concerns over potential interest-rate hikes weighed on broader risk assets. Analysts noted that while IBIT's inflows signal resilience in institutional demand, persistent selling pressure and macroeconomic uncertainty are keeping bitcoin's price in check.
Min Jung, an associate researcher at Presto Research, suggested that investors may be positioning for a 'catch-up trade' in bitcoin. Unlike other risk assets trading near all-time highs, bitcoin has remained relatively attractive due to its range-bound price action. However, Jung cautioned that volatility is likely to persist as the Federal Reserve's rate decision looms, dampening broader risk sentiment.
The Block's crypto Fear & Greed Index currently stands at 59, indicating a 'greed' zone. Additionally, BlackRock filed for another bitcoin fund on Monday, proposing the iShares Bitcoin Managed Protect ETF, which would offer investors downside protection alongside upside exposure to its flagship bitcoin ETF.