Institutions are acquiring Bitcoin at a rate four times higher than miners can produce, intensifying the supply shortage

In the past month, Bitcoin whales have sold off 147,000 BTC, leading to renewed debate over where the cryptocurrency’s price is headed next. River Financial’s research indicates that institutional and corporate interest in

has intensified, with companies acquiring the digital asset at a pace four times greater than the rate at which miners are generating new coins. This has resulted in a significant supply crunch, as institutions and treasury departments are accumulating Bitcoin at record levels. River’s findings show that Bitcoin treasury entities, such as Michael Saylor’s Strategy, purchased more than 159,107 BTC in the second quarter of 2025 alone, now controlling over 18.5% of all coins in circulation. This aggressive buying by institutions stands in stark contrast to the 450 BTC produced daily after the April 2025 halving, signaling a fundamental change in the market’s structure.

The increasing embrace of Bitcoin by corporations is transforming its place within mainstream finance. Data from River reveals that 3,000 U.S. companies now include Bitcoin in their treasuries, allocating an average of 22% of their net profits to the asset. This movement is largely led by small and medium-sized businesses, which are turning to Bitcoin as protection against inflation and banking uncertainties. Clearer regulations, such as updated GAAP rules that let firms value Bitcoin at fair market price, have further propelled this trend. Moreover, the U.S. government’s creation of a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, along with state-level proposals like those in Texas and New Hampshire, has strengthened Bitcoin’s standing among corporate players.

This mismatch between supply and demand has led to optimistic price projections for 2025. River Financial points out that institutional investors, including ETFs and funds, are buying an average of 1,755 BTC each day—well above the daily mining output. This buying pressure is reducing the available supply of Bitcoin, which could push prices higher as sellers become scarce. Forbes analysts anticipate that Bitcoin could surpass $150,000 in 2025, citing factors such as the incoming Trump administration’s crypto-friendly stance, the approval of spot ETFs, and the tokenization of the U.S. dollar. Similarly, InvestingHaven’s 2025 outlook estimates Bitcoin could trade between $80,440 and $151,200, with a possible high of $185,000. These forecasts depend on continued institutional buying and favorable regulatory developments.

Despite the strong bullish outlook, there are still risks. The swift accumulation by large institutions may restrict access for retail investors and increase market volatility. River’s report cautions that a supply shock could occur if institutional holders choose to “HODL” their coins, further reducing liquidity. Additionally, Bitcoin’s value remains sensitive to broader economic factors, such as interest rates and international political tensions. For instance, geopolitical unrest in June 2025 temporarily boosted Bitcoin’s price, but lasting growth will require overall economic stability.

The intersection of corporate adoption, institutional interest, and regulatory progress could set the stage for a major Bitcoin rally. With businesses and treasury groups now holding over 1.3 million BTC, the asset is increasingly seen as a strategic reserve. If these trends persist, Bitcoin could challenge the $100,000 mark soon, with the possibility of reaching $150,000 or more by year’s end. Nevertheless, investors should remain vigilant, as high leverage and regulatory uncertainties could still impact the market’s direction.