Bitcoin Mining: Current Situation and Forecasts
As of today, miners have extracted 19.9 million BTC out of the planned 21 million, which represents almost 95% of the total supply. This means that only about 1.1 million coins remain to be mined in the future. With each halving, which occurs approximately every four years, the issuance of new bitcoins slows down, creating additional pressure on the market.
Halving and Its Impact on Rewards
Since April 2024, the reward for miners has been only 3.125 BTC per block. This figure is 16 times lower than in 2009 when the reward was 50 BTC. Halving is a significant event in the cryptocurrency market as it not only reduces the number of new bitcoins entering circulation but can also significantly affect the asset's price. With decreasing supply and constant or increasing demand for bitcoin, the price generally tends to rise.
Demand from ETFs and Corporations
Meanwhile, the demand for bitcoin from ETFs (exchange-traded funds) and large corporations significantly exceeds the rate of issuance. Since the beginning of the year, American funds have purchased BTC worth about $20 billion. This indicates a growing interest from institutional investors in cryptocurrencies, which, in turn, supports the value of bitcoin.
Among the major buyers is MicroStrategy, led by Michael Saylor, which actively accumulates bitcoins in its portfolio. This highlights the strategic approach of many companies to invest in digital assets, viewing them as a hedge against inflation and instability in traditional financial markets.
Supply Constraints and Scarcity
The limited supply of bitcoins, combined with rising demand, intensifies scarcity in the market. The next halving is scheduled for 2028, and many analysts expect this event to lead to new price records. The mining of the last bitcoin may be completed around 2140, making the current supply even more valuable.
Considering all these factors, the future of bitcoin looks promising. Investors and analysts are closely monitoring market changes, especially in the context of upcoming halvings and shifts in demand from institutional investors. The cryptocurrency market remains volatile, but it is becoming increasingly mature and attractive for long-term investments.
