
18 May 2026 Daily crypto wrap: Bitcoin is holding above US$78,000 despite a challenging week for institutional flows. U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded nearly US$1 billion in weekly outflows, the largest since January, as rising Treasury yields and elevated inflation data prompted some profit-taking. @BlackRock's IBIT and Ark's ARKB led the outflows, though it's worth noting this followed six consecutive weeks of accumulation. The more constructive signal is coming from long-term holders. Wallets added 316,000 BTC over 30 days, pushing long-term holder supply to 15.26 million BTC, the highest since August 2025. That kind of accumulation during a dip reflects genuine conviction, not speculation. XRP stood out this week, with ETF inflows of US$60.5M, its strongest week of 2026, as the CLARITY Act cleared the Senate Banking Committee 15-9, bringing a federal regulatory framework for digital assets closer to reality. Regulatory clarity has historically been a positive catalyst. Key level to watch: BTC needs to hold US$78,000 on a daily close. A sustained reclaim above US$80,000 would shift near-term momentum back to the bulls. @BTCMarkets

