Why BTC Isn't Growing: CryptoQuant CEO Explains Why Big Capital Is Fleeing to Gold

02/18/2026Богдан Семичев

Ki Young Ju, CEO of the analytics platform CryptoQuant, presented two possible scenarios for Bitcoin's exit from its current stagnation phase. The expert emphasized that the recovery process could take months, and the market will likely face additional pressure before resuming growth. He believes that the lack of fresh capital inflow and a change in strategy by major players make an immediate return to the bullish rally unlikely.

The first scenario, outlined by the analyst, envisions a "cleansing" price drop to $55,000, which corresponds to the average acquisition price for most holders. Such a decline would finally flush out uncertain investors and create a stable foundation for a new upward cycle. Alternatively, Ju considers a prolonged sideways consolidation in the $60,000–$70,000 range, which would pose a serious psychological test for traders but would allow the market to accumulate the necessary momentum.

The current weakness of the leading cryptocurrency is directly related to aggressive sell-offs by institutional investors, who are reallocating their portfolios in favor of traditional assets such as gold or the stock market. The head of CryptoQuant noted warning signs: the inflow of funds into spot Bitcoin ETFs has noticeably slowed, and demand on over-the-counter (OTC) markets has virtually dried up. Under these conditions, the crypto market's capitalization remains static, depriving large companies of the incentive to hold long positions and causing further pressure on prices.

Historical experience shows that after deep corrections, the market requires at least three months of calm consolidation to restore confidence and reverse sentiment. Ki Young Joo urges market participants not to be fooled by short-term price rebounds, which in the current configuration are only temporary. Until real capital inflows resume and market capitalization stabilizes, the upside potential of not only Bitcoin but also most altcoins will remain extremely limited.