- Bitcoin USD turns 17 years old, marking its launch as a peer-to-peer digital payment system by Satoshi Nakamoto in 2009.
- On-chain data shows Bitcoin in a market transition phase, with supply in profit near 69%.
- An early Ethereum investor shifted millions in ETH holdings into Bitcoin.
Today marks 17 years since the launch of Bitcoin USD by Satoshi Nakamoto. The network changed online payments by removing the need for a bank intermediary. Bitcoin market data shows a possible cycle shift, while large holders and early Ethereum investors adjust positions toward BTC.
Satoshi Nakamoto Sets Bitcoin on a New Path
Bitcoin was launched on January 3, 2009, by a person using the name “Satoshi Nakamoto”. The project introduced a digital payment system that worked without banks. It allowed people to send money online using peer-to-peer technology.
It is worth noting that transactions were recorded on a public ledger called the blockchain. The first block, known as the genesis block, marked the start of the network. It proved that digital money could function without a central authority.
Notably, the system relied on open source software and network consensus. This design reduced the need for trust between users. In the early years, Bitcoin attracted developers and cryptography fans. Usage was limited, and prices were low.

Over time, awareness grew as more people tested the network. Exchanges appeared, and trading activity increased. Seventeen years later, Bitcoin USD remains the largest digital asset by market value.
It trades near $89,730 and holds a market capitalization of about $1.79 trillion. Circulating supply stands close to 19.97 million coins, with a maximum supply of 21 million. The anniversary comes during a period of market review, and investors are watching price trends and network data.
Beyond the design by Satoshi Nakamoto, many are assessing how the asset fits into long-term portfolios. The original goal of open digital money continues to shape the discussion.
On-chain Data Points to a Market Transition Phase
Recent Bitcoin USD price analysis focuses on an on-chain metric called Supply in Profit. This measure tracks how much of the total supply is held at a profit. It helps observers understand market cycles.
In past cycles, readings above 80% often matched strong bull markets. Levels between 55% and 80% usually appeared during transitions. Experts saw values at or below 55% near market bottoms.
The current reading is 68.85%. It has been falling since October 2025. The decline has lasted several months, suggesting steady pressure rather than a brief move.

Market participants note that the length of time in this range matters. A long stay near 70% could point toward a broader downturn. A move back above 75% could suggest renewed strength. External conditions also play a role. Overall, ongoing geopolitical risks affect investor behavior.
Some capital may move toward safer assets. Risk assets, including Bitcoin, can face reduced demand during such periods. Rather than making firm predictions, observers describe the phase as cautious. Portfolio discipline and risk control are often emphasized during transitions.
Early Ethereum Holders Shift Capital Toward Bitcoin USD
In separate news, large transactions have added to market discussion. Blockchain tracker Lookonchain reported activity from an early Ethereum holder. The address, labeled 0x4553, accumulated Ethereum between 2019 and 2023.
The investor purchased 21,000 ETH, valued at $61.4 million. The average purchase price was $2,922. Recently, part of this position was exchanged.

Over a short period, 14,146 ETH valued at $44.3 million was swapped. The trade converted the assets into 492 wrapped Bitcoin USD. Similarly, the exchange rate used was 0.03479. Ethereum is currently priced near $3,096. It ranks second by market value at about $373.74 billion. Circulating supply is about 120.69 million ETH, with no fixed maximum.
Such moves are often watched for insight into sentiment. However, one investor does not define the market. Both networks continue to respond to data, price action, and broader economic factors as the cycle evolves.
Source: https://www.thecoinrepublic.com/2026/01/03/satoshi-nakamoto-launched-bitcoin-17-years-ago-today/