Bitcoin exchange-traded funds faced significant outflows as ether and XRP-linked products drew net inflows, highlighting a stark shift in investor sentiment during recent market turbulence. According to CoinDesk, U.S.-listed spot bitcoin ETFs recorded roughly $272 million in net outflows on February 3, continuing a trend amid bitcoin's volatile price movements. The withdrawals coincided with bitcoin's sharp fluctuations, falling toward $73,000 before recovering above $76,000, driven by macroeconomic factors and low liquidity.

In contrast, spot ether ETFs gained about $14 million, while XRP-focused products attracted nearly $20 million. This indicates that investors are not entirely abandoning crypto markets but are instead reallocating their investments. The divergence reflects changing risk appetites rather than a complete loss of faith in digital assets.

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Bitcoin Nears $70,000 as Altcoins Surge in Market Recovery

Bitcoin nears $70,000 but pulls back, with altcoins like Ether and Solana leading a market recovery. The situation reflects shifting risk appetites among traders.

As Bitcoin increasingly behaves like a macro-sensitive asset, its price reacts swiftly to external market pressures, including recent selloffs in U.S. software stocks. These dynamics suggest that while bitcoin ETFs are experiencing near-term de-risking, capital continues to flow within the crypto sector, favoring assets that provide unique use cases or perceived value.

Ultimately, this behavior underscores a selective approach to risk-taking in the crypto space. Investors are navigating the current landscape with caution, indicating a nuanced strategy rather than a straightforward exit from the market.