Bitcoin (BTC) ETFs Record Over $250 Million in Net Inflows on March 17, the Highest Since Feb. 4

Despite renewed institutional interest, BTC price remains below $85,000 as traders await the FOMC rate decision.

Bitcoin’s spot exchange-traded funds (ETFs) recorded over $250 million in net outflows on Friday, March 17, rendering it the largest single-day increase since early February.

The surge in institutional demand comes after five consecutive weeks of outflows that saw a total of $5.4 billion exit Bitcoin ETFs, according to SoSoValue data.

According to Farside Investors, all major Bitcoin ETF issuers reported positive inflows, including Fidelity, BlackRock, and Grayscale.

Fidelity’s FBTC saw the largest inflows at $127.3 million, followed by ARK Invest’s ARKB with $88.5 million. BlackRock’s IBIT reported inflows of $42.3 million, while Grayscale’s GBTC, which had seen persistent outflows in recent weeks, received $14.2 million.

Despite the massive inflows, Bitcoin’s price remains locked below the $85,000 mark as it faces difficulties breaking through key resistance.

Bitcoin price consolidates ahead of FOMC rate decision

BTC/USD is currently trading around $83,000 after failing to secure a daily close above the $84,600 level. Since March 12, Bitcoin has repeatedly tested the $85,000 price point but has been unable to sustain momentum and close above it.

The market is now awaiting the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting on March 19, which could trigger increased volatility in both directions.

CME’s FedWatch tool indicates a 99% probability that the Federal Reserve will maintain interest rates at 4.25%–4.50%, leaving traders to anticipate Chairman Jerome Powell’s comments regarding future policy shifts.

“Crypto markets could see a short-term rally if the Fed signals future rate cuts,” said Ryan Lee, Bitget Research chief analyst. “However, a hawkish stance could reinforce tighter financial conditions, impacting risk assets.”

Traders split between $95K rally or deeper correction

The uncertainty surrounding Bitcoin’s next move has divided analysts, with some seeing potential for an upside breakout and others predicting a correction toward key support levels.

“Everyone is asking me about the next BTC move,” trader Lucky posted on X. “There are two possibilities: a push toward $95K or a deep correction to retest the $73K zone.”

Meanwhile, trader Merlijn The Trader pointed to technical weakness, stating that Bitcoin had broken down from a rising wedge formation and could target $78,000 if bulls fail to regain control.

On-chain data suggests that institutional investors may be regaining confidence after several weeks of hesitation. If the massive ETF inflows continue, Bitcoin could build enough momentum to reclaim its all-time high of $108,786. However, if price action remains sluggish, a retest of $80,000 or lower remains a possibility.