LATEST: Mysterious Whales Purchase 240K-420K Bitcoins, CryptoQuant CEO Reveals

Leading institutional Bitcoin investors, including spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs), MicroStrategy, and various custodial wallets, have significantly increased their holdings this year. According to Ki Young Ju, CEO of a notable on-chain data company, these entities have collectively acquired around 1.55 million BTC. The purchases often involve transactions from large-scale holders, known as whales, who prefer privacy-centric methods to discreetly transfer significant amounts of Bitcoin to new institutional players.

Despite the transparency in most transactions, there remains a substantial portion of the activity shrouded in mystery. Ju pointed out that between 240,000 and 420,000 BTC have been purchased through unidentifiable transactions. The identities of these major buyers are still unknown, sparking curiosity about the possible new power players in the cryptocurrency market. The ongoing accumulation underscores the growing confidence of institutional investors in Bitcoin’s long-term value.

LATEST: Thailand Contemplates Pilot Project for Bitcoin Payment Integration to Boost Economy

Thailand is set to enhance its tourism sector by experimenting with Bitcoin payments, a bold initiative spearheaded by former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Recently, he proposed a pilot Bitcoin payment project in Phuket, aimed at integrating digital currencies with the country’s key economic drivers. This move is part of the broader Digital Asset Regulatory Sandbox launched in 2024 to bolster the national economy through technological innovation.

Thaksin, a long-time advocate for cryptocurrencies, has voiced strong support for Bitcoin and its potential to stimulate economic growth. His vision includes making Thailand a hub for tech-savvy tourists and investors by embracing crypto trends. Notably, Thaksin has even predicted Bitcoin could soar to $850,000, highlighting the digital currency’s growing influence.

However, this innovative proposal faces regulatory challenges, as the Bank of Thailand currently prohibits crypto payments. To advance this initiative, critical discussions between the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the central bank will be necessary. Thaksin’s push for adopting crypto aligns with his broader goal of positioning Thailand at the forefront of global financial trends.

Bangkok Post