Bitcoin’s price movements in recent months have drawn significant attention, particularly regarding its historically low relative volatility.
ARK Invest, in its December edition of “The Bitcoin Monthly,” highlighted key metrics suggesting that Bitcoin could see further upside in 2025.
Despite a turbulent end to 2024, Bitcoin’s volatility, though elevated, remained moderate when viewed in a broader historical context. ARK’s analysis compared Bitcoin’s monthly and yearly realized volatility, revealing that while there was an uptick during December, it was relatively tame compared to annual trends. This indicates that Bitcoin has yet to enter the euphoric “mania” phase often associated with the peak of bull cycles.
“Low relative volatility implies that Bitcoin hasn’t reached the mania phase of its cycle, leaving room for further market expansion,” ARK stated in its report.
Holder Behavior Signals Market Confidence
One of the most striking bullish indicators comes from Bitcoin holder behavior. ARK’s data showed that a record-breaking 62% of the circulating supply of Bitcoin had not been moved in over a year, while the cryptocurrency more than doubled its price in 2024. This shows great belief in Bitcoin for the long run among investors, who do not seem to worry about the inherent volatility of the asset.
Bitcoin’s monthly volatility (green) remained subdued compared to its annual volatility (purple) in Q4, signaling room for further market growth. Source: ARK Invest
It would often imply less sell pressure among holders, plus higher scarcity in general, all acting as tailwinds for price appreciation. These metrics have been in agreement with the greater narrative of Bitcoin as a digital store of value.
Price Action and Future Outlook
Bitcoin began 2025 trading just below the $100,000 psychological level, a significant milestone that it breached briefly in late December. This rally followed several macroeconomic developments, including shifting U.S. Federal Reserve policies and increased institutional participation. Analysts believe that Bitcoin’s ability to sustain these price levels will depend on both market sentiment and regulatory clarity.
Bitcoin futures liquidations on offshore exchanges hint at potential market overheating. Source: Ark Invest
Cathie Wood, the CEO of ARK Invest, is further upbeat on Bitcoin for the longer term. She has reiterated a call that Bitcoin could reach $1 million by 2030, citing growing institutional adoption and its deflationary nature as core catalysts.
Other analysts go in tandem with that thought. A few project its value to skyrocket even higher and reach $1.5 million at the end of the decade, but they stress that a lot depends on macroeconomic observations, including those of regulation, global monetary policies, and a shift in the dynamics of traditional financial markets.
A Balanced Perspective
Despite the optimism, some experts urge caution. Bitcoin’s market is not new to wild swings in price; for the most part, periods of low volatility precede periods of major price movements. While data would suggest further upside could be seen, unexpected market events or changes in regulatory landscapes might trigger short-term volatility.
Bitcoin (BTC) price chart. Source:Bitcoin Liquid Index (BLX) via Brave New Coin
Moreover, the expected crypto-friendly policy in major economies such as the United States can be a two-edged sword: while they can lead to short-term price increases, they might amplify market risks when speculative bubbles are created.
Fundamentally, two main reasons that show that Bitcoin’s metrics are good in the present include low relative volatility and strong holder activity, hence making its future in 2025 bright. Bitcoin will be moving into the new year; thus, determining its course requires a combination of market sentiment, macroeconomic factors, and regulatory news.
For now, Bitcoin remains a key asset to watch, with its potential upside capturing the attention of both retail and institutional investors as Trump prepares to take office.
