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BTC Long-term Bitcoin holders increase their holdings at the fastest rate in six years
The latest data shows that the most experienced investors in the Bitcoin space are increasing their positions at the fastest rate in more than six years. The surge in long-term holder activity, accompanied by the return of considerable realized profits, often heralds the beginning of a new round of upward momentum in the market.
Long-term holders 'holdings hit a new high since 2017.
On-chain analyst firm CryptoQuant reported that the 30-day change in Bitcoin's long-term holders (LTH) net position climbed to approximately 1.29 million BTC at the end of May. This level is the highest monthly increase in holdings for the group since tracking records, surpassing peaks in multiple previous bullish cycles, including market gains in 2017.
Change in LTH net position evaluates the net Bitcoin flow into long-term holding wallets over a rolling 30-day window. Persistently positive readings often indicate that experienced investors are increasing positions rather than taking profits or reducing risk.
The record increase in holdings comes at a time when Bitcoin prices are significantly below recent historical highs, indicating that these holders see opportunities in the market correction rather than reasons to leave. Historically, when speculative traders reduce their exposure, long-term holders have often experienced similar periods of large-scale holdings, while confident investors have quietly strengthened their positions.
Market observers point out that the latest stage has surpassed all shareholding periods since at least 2021, and even exceeded levels during the 2017 bull market.
Profitability of long-term Bitcoin holders improves
Further data from Glassnode shows that these long-term holders have recently returned to strong realized profits. Analysts tracking bitcoin transfers to exchanges using a 30-day moving average have found that holders who held the currency during declines are exiting with significant gains after prices rebounded from recent lows.
Previously, similar surges in profits realized by long-term holders have preceded major market gains many times, including periods of significant expansion in 2020 and 2021. This coexistence of high holdings and rising profits highlights the firm confidence of core Bitcoin holders.
Although broad profit periods sometimes trigger profit-taking, analysts note that current conditions are unique in that even as profits rise, increases in holdings are intensifying. This reflects that large and mature investors remain optimistic about their outlook despite recent fluctuations.
Although improved on-chain signaling points to stronger market conditions, analysts stressed that a single indicator cannot guarantee the start of a new bull market. Historically, increases in holdings by long-term holders have often been a reliable indicator of deeper confidence in Bitcoin's prospects, because these wallets have generally responded less to price fluctuations than new entrants.
Comparison between the increase period and market background
Change in 30-day LTH net position:
End of May 2026 - 1.29 million BTC (strongest in more than 6 years)
2021 peak-below 1.29 million BTC (bull market)
2017 cycle-below 1.29 million BTC (bull market)
Bitcoin prices have recently rebounded by about 15%, close to the key short-term holder cost level of $68,000, which many analysts believe is a key point in determining the direction of future trends.
