Spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have posted a strong start to 2026, attracting $1.1 billion in inflows over the first two trading days. Analysts attribute the renewed demand to a so-called “clean-slate effect,” as investors reposition portfolios at the start of the new year.
According to data from Farside Investors, US spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded $697 million in net inflows on the second trading day of 2026 alone. This lifted total inflows above $1.1 billion for the opening sessions of the year, signaling a sharp reversal after months of subdued activity.
The renewed buying interest comes as welcome relief for Bitcoin holders following two straight months of ETF outflows late last year. Spot Bitcoin ETFs saw $3.48 billion exit in November and another $1.09 billion in December, based on figures from Sosovalue.
ETF inflows were a major force behind Bitcoin’s price momentum in 2025, according to Standard Chartered. The bank’s global head of digital assets research, Geoff Kendrick, recently noted that institutional demand through ETFs played a key role in driving last year’s rally.
Interest has also picked up across other crypto-linked funds. Spot Ether ETFs drew $168 million in inflows earlier in the week, marking their second consecutive day of gains. Meanwhile, Solana ETFs attracted $16.8 million, extending a streak of 20 straight days of inflows, according to Farside Investors.
Analysts say the broader rebound reflects a portfolio rebalancing phase influenced by geopolitical uncertainty and liquidity positioning. Bitget Wallet research analyst Lacie Zhang said expanding ETF inflows and stablecoin supply suggest institutional investors are absorbing available supply, supporting a potential near-term recovery. Under this setup, she noted that Bitcoin could move toward $105,000, while Ethereum may test higher resistance levels.
A separate report from crypto platform Matrixport highlighted the impact of the new year’s “clean-slate effect.” The firm pointed out that roughly $30 billion in Bitcoin and Ether futures leverage has been unwound since the October market sell-off, leaving positioning significantly lighter heading into 2026.
Despite the renewed optimism, not all professional traders are convinced. Data from Nansen shows that so-called “smart money” traders remain net short Bitcoin, with positions totaling about $108 million, even as they hold net long exposure to Ether and XRP.
