Due to the possibility of ETF approval restoring Bitcoin’s liquidity, Kaiko examines the crypto landscape, potential benefits, and risks.
Amidst the ongoing repercussions of the FTX collapse, Kaiko’s recent report illuminates a crucial inquiry: Can the forthcoming ETF approval revitalize the liquidity of Bitcoin?
The report examines the effects of an ETF by analyzing market depth, trade volume, and the function of market makers. With that being stated, let us delve into the complexities of the liquidity landscape of Bitcoin and examine the possible consequences of ETFs.
What Impact Can ETFs Have on The Liquidity of Bitcoin?
Following the FTX collapse, the cryptocurrency industry has experienced a period of declining liquidity, which has had a global impact on order book depth and volume.
In the interim, Kaiko’s recent report emphasizes the harsh truth that the most recent market upswing failed to restore levels observed before the FTX. Specifically, the imminent possibility of an ETF approval in January provides a glimmer of optimism, albeit accompanied by prudence.
Kaiko, meanwhile, proposed two mechanisms by which an ETF might stimulate a surge in Bitcoin’s liquidity: liquidity transmitted through market makers (MMs) or liquidity transferred via trading.
According to the report, an ETF could exponentially increase the number of crypto traders, thereby promoting greater market efficiency and volume. In addition, market makers may expand their operations as a result of the hedging capabilities of ETFs.
Nevertheless, Kaiko also raises apprehensions regarding the potential for substantial ETF outflows to cause selling pressure on underlying markets. In addition, market managers may increase spreads in response to the influx of well-informed traders. This contrast establishes the foundation for a discerning analysis of the present liquidity state of Bitcoin.
Successfully Navigating Challenges and Opportunities
In the wake of the FTX collapse, there was a significant decrease in the market depth of Bitcoin. Additionally, the recent market rally has been primarily ascribed to price effects, with only a minor impact on liquidity.
As approval of the Bitcoin Spot ETF approaches, the significance of market depth becomes apparent. Significantly, the purchase and sale of the underlying asset by ETF issuers may stimulate flow increases on centralized spot exchanges. The importance of liquidity in preserving market efficiency, critical for arbitrageurs, becomes a fulcrum in the ETF narrative.
Furthermore, while not as substantial as the influence of market depth, the effect of FTX on transaction volume reflects the volatility observed since November 2022.
Despite a moderate resurgence following the banking crisis of March, total volumes continue to fall short of pre-FTX levels. The report implies that an ETF approval could alter trading costs as more knowledgeable investors enter the Bitcoin market.
Nonetheless, the report indicates that Bitcoin, the most liquid cryptocurrency asset, remains resilient despite the ongoing market turmoil. Regarding trade volume distribution over the past year, BTC has consistently outperformed ETH and leading altcoins.
In light of the factors above, Kaiko hypothesized that the approval of an ETF could bolster Bitcoin’s supremacy and impact the broader market dynamics.