Bitwise’s Matt Hougan Says Bitcoin May See Record Q4 ETF Inflows as Analysts Note Further Upside

• Record Q4 inflows forecast

• Analysts see steady upward momentum in Bitcoin price with low short-term volatility.

• Bitcoin ETFs attracted $22.5B in the first nine months; Q4 flows could set a new annual record.

Bitcoin ETF inflows predicted to peak in Q4 — Bitcoin ETF inflows front and center; read expert analysis and next steps for investors.

What are the latest forecasts for Bitcoin ETF inflows?

Bitcoin ETF inflows are expected to surge in Q4, with Bitwise CIO Matt Hougan predicting record quarterly net flows driven by higher BTC prices and wider adviser adoption. The first nine months saw $22.5 billion in ETF inflows, signaling momentum that could push full-year ETF flows to new highs.

How is Bitcoin’s price momentum shaping ETF demand?

Bitcoin’s price recently reached a new peak above $126,000 while technical indicators show balanced upward momentum. CryptoQuant contributor Arab Chain notes a 30-day moving average near $116,000 and relatively low 30-day standard deviation of about $4,540, suggesting compressed volatility that often precedes strong price moves.

Bitcoin’s growth ratio has been on an upward trajectory since May 2024. Source: CryptoQuant

Analysts observe that Bitcoin typically reaches cycle peaks within roughly 600 days after halving events. If that historical cadence holds, BTC is in a critical window that has previously produced major bull-market tops, yet current momentum indicators do not yet show classic overbought signals.

Why does Bitwise expect record inflows in Q4?

Bitwise CIO Matt Hougan attributes the forecast to three key drivers: rising Bitcoin prices, increasing adviser access to ETFs, and macro conditions favoring assets that perform well amid US dollar weakness. Hougan argues that higher prices attract media and investor attention, which tends to amplify ETF demand.

What are the recent ETF flow figures and outlook?

US Bitcoin ETFs logged $22.5 billion in inflows during the first nine months of the year. Hougan noted ETFs took in $3.5 billion in the first four trading days of Q4, putting momentum on pace to exceed prior annual totals such as the $36 billion seen in the launch year.

Gold (blue) and Bitcoin (orange) ETF inflows by year since launch. Source: Bitwise

How are wealth managers and advisers influencing flows?

Hougan highlights that large wealth managers opening access to Bitcoin ETFs will materially expand the investor base. A recent Morgan Stanley report (plain text reference) indicated advisers are increasingly able to allocate to cryptocurrency, with suggested allocations for risk-tolerant clients up to 4% in multi-asset portfolios.

That adviser adoption, combined with year-end client reviews that favor showing top-performing holdings, creates a practical pathway for significant year-end buying into Bitcoin ETFs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Q4 ETF inflows push Bitcoin to a new all-time high?

ETF inflows can provide sustained demand that supports higher prices, but price moves also depend on liquidity, macro conditions and miner behavior. Analysts say current momentum and inflows increase the probability of further upside, not guarantee it.

How much did US Bitcoin ETFs attract so far this year?

US Bitcoin ETFs recorded approximately $22.5 billion in inflows through the first nine months, with early Q4 net flows around $3.5 billion in the first four trading days.

Are Bitcoin’s technical indicators suggesting overbought conditions?

Technical metrics referenced by analysts show Bitcoin below classic overbought thresholds, with a steady 30-day moving average and compressed volatility—conditions that often precede larger directional moves if liquidity supports them.

Key Takeaways

• Record flows likely: Bitwise forecasts Q4 will set a new record for Bitcoin ETF inflows.
• Price momentum supports demand: BTC shows steady upward momentum with compressed volatility, not classic overbought signals.
• Adviser adoption matters: Broader access through wealth managers can amplify year-end flows and investor allocations.

Conclusion

Bitcoin ETF inflows are positioned to be the dominant demand driver in Q4 as BTC price momentum and adviser access converge. Industry figures such as Matt Hougan of Bitwise and market data highlight a scenario where ETFs could absorb substantial capital before year-end. Investors should monitor net flows, technical indicators, and adviser adoption when evaluating positioning.