BTC 15-minute increase of 0.82%: Whales accumulate and ETF funds flow back in harmony to boost the market

On March 9, 2026, from 05:30 to 05:45 (UTC), Bitcoin experienced a significant upward movement, with a 15-minute return of +0.82%. The price ranged from $67,350.4 to $67,970.0 USDT, with an amplitude of 0.92%. This surge occurred during a period of global risk asset pressure and increased volatility in the crypto market, attracting market attention.

The main drivers behind this movement were continuous accumulation by large whales at the bottom and the rebound of ETF fund inflows. On-chain data shows that from February to March, large addresses holding over 1,000 BTC increased their transfer volume by 42% year-over-year. On February 6, whale accumulation reached a single-day high of 66,940 BTC, the highest in nearly four years. Meanwhile, exchange-held BTC reserves dropped to 2.46 million, the lowest since 2018, while spot ETF net inflows reached $1.1 billion, indicating institutional accumulation at the bottom. Additionally, US market demand rebounded, with the premium index turning positive for the first time in 40 days, further boosting market confidence.

At the same time, leverage unwinding in the derivatives market and rising macro risk aversion created a resonance. During the extreme volatility phase in early February, daily losses hit a record high of $3.2 billion. After retail panic selling, leverage was significantly cleaned up, and bullish structures became healthier. On the macro level, oil prices surged to $108 per barrel, Middle East geopolitical tensions intensified, US stock futures fell over 1.5%, and global risk aversion increased. Some funds temporarily flowed into BTC for diversification. Additionally, five major on-chain bottom signals lit up simultaneously, highlighting characteristics of a historical bottom structure and increasing the likelihood of a rebound.

It is important to note that Bitcoin still faces macro headwinds and emotional volatility risks. Key indicators to watch include: continued ETF net inflows, exchange reserve changes, the $64,000 support level, whale transfer activity, and geopolitical news. If macro shocks intensify or support levels are broken, volatility could significantly increase. Short-term caution is advised, and market updates should be closely monitored.