- BlackRock’s IBIT ETF attracted its second-largest inflow of 10,249 BTC as institutional demand surged in late April 2025.
- South Korea’s crypto reform push, including spot Bitcoin ETF legalization, signals stronger institutional adoption and market maturity.
- Despite prior outflows, IBIT holdings surpassed 600,000 BTC, reflecting continued long-term accumulation by major financial players.
BlackRock’s Bitcoin ETF, IBIT, saw a record net inflow of 10,249 BTC worth $960.69 million on April 28, according to Trader T. It is the second-largest single-day purchase since the ETF launched. Furthermore, trading volume hit $1.8 billion, showing that there is higher institutional demand. The rush comes after rising global sentiment for Bitcoin ETFs and South Korea’s decision to move forward with landmark crypto reforms.
IBIT Net Flow and Market Trends
IBIT’s performance from July 2024 through April 2025 highlights key institutional behavior. Net flows remained mostly positive until early December 2024. October and November were particularly strong, with several daily inflows exceeding $800 million.
However, December 2024 marked a shift. Negative flows became more common through January and February 2025. Multiple days in that period saw outflows of over $200 million. Consequently, it suggested widespread profit-taking or portfolio rebalancing.
Volume trends told a different story. The ETF’s trading volume climbed steadily from Q3 to Q4 2024. It peaked in late October and November, aligning with heavy inflows. The 20-day moving average confirmed this upward pressure before it stabilized in Q1 2025. Moreover, IBIT holdings continued rising despite the flow volatility. Holdings grew from 350,000 BTC to over 600,000 BTC. This underlines a long-term accumulation strategy by institutional buyers.
Policy Shifts Fuel Renewed Interest
Besides market dynamics, policy changes are shaping the digital asset landscape. South Korea’s ruling People Power Party (PPP) plans to revamp crypto regulation ahead of the June 3 elections.
The PPP proposes legalizing spot Bitcoin ETFs. This aligns with the SEC’s earlier move and could drive local market growth. Moreover, the party wants to remove the one-bank rule for exchanges. This change aims to increase competition and diversify service options.
Additionally, the PPP supports a stablecoin framework based on global standards. It also backs the Framework Act on the Promotion of Digital Assets. These measures seek to clarify listing and disclosure rules while protecting investors.
Institutional capital is re-entering the market amid policy clarity and ETF demand. Hence, April’s billion-dollar inflows may mark the beginning of another bullish cycle. With global and regional shifts aligning, Bitcoin’s institutional momentum shows no signs of slowing down.
