On February 6th, it was reported that as Bitcoin’s price retreated from its high at the end of 2025, the massive Bitcoin holdings of its mysterious creator, Satoshi Nakamoto, also experienced a significant decrease in value. Based on current market prices, the book value of approximately 1.1 million Bitcoins under Satoshi Nakamoto’s name is about $71 billion, whereas during the peak a few months ago, this number exceeded $130 billion, with a loss of over $60 billion.
This change is not due to selling activity. On-chain data shows that wallets associated with Satoshi have been in long-term dormancy since around 2010, with no large-scale transfers ever occurring. These addresses are considered “effectively locked,” accounting for about 5% of the total Bitcoin supply, and are the largest known single holdings in the market. Because of this, they are viewed as “sleeping Bitcoins” that will not enter circulation, having a long-term impact on market structure.
When Bitcoin hit a new all-time high at the end of 2025, Satoshi’s holdings once became one of the most valuable crypto asset portfolios globally. Now, the price correction has nearly halved its value, demonstrating the high elasticity of Bitcoin’s price movements. Even if the largest holder takes no action, their nominal wealth will still fluctuate dramatically with market cycles.
Since stepping back from the public eye in 2011, Satoshi Nakamoto has never made any statements regarding their identity or assets. This prolonged silence has made their wallet itself a part of Bitcoin’s narrative. Some speculate they are still alive, while others believe they have passed away. Regardless of the truth, these dormant addresses have become symbols of the long-term holding philosophy in Bitcoin.
This recent book value reduction serves as a reminder to investors: Bitcoin is not a one-way upward asset; its value constantly adjusts in response to macroeconomic conditions, market sentiment, and cyclical changes. Satoshi Nakamoto’s “unchanged one coin” perhaps offers the most direct illustration of this volatility.
Disclaimer: The information on this page may come from third parties and does not represent the views or opinions of Gate. The content displayed on this page is for reference only and does not constitute any financial, investment, or legal advice. Gate does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information and shall not be liable for any losses arising from the use of this information. Virtual asset investments carry high risks and are subject to significant price volatility. You may lose all of your invested principal. Please fully understand the relevant risks and make prudent decisions based on your own financial situation and risk tolerance. For details, please refer to
Disclaimer.
Related Articles
Best Crypto to Make You Rich: While Metaplanet Doubles Down on BTC, Retail Investors Are Going Al...
Metaplanet just raised $255 million for Bitcoin and built a shareholder protection mechanism that pushes the corporate treasury playbook to a new level. With potential firepower exceeding $765 million and a 210,000 BTC target, institutional appetite for crypto has never been stronger.
But Metaplane
BlockChainReporterJust Now
Court Reaffirms Bitcoin’s Status as Property but Limits Tort Claims in $172M Case
A United Kingdom High Court’s recent ruling has clarified the legal status of bitcoin, stating that while it is considered property, it cannot be subjected to traditional legal claims applicable to physical goods.
The $172 Million Bitcoin Dispute
In a landmark ruling, the High Court of Justice cl
Coinpedia1h ago
BTC Falls 0.72% in 15 Minutes: On-chain Large Inflows to Exchanges Amplify Decline as Long Positions Liquidate
**March 18, 2026, 18:45-19:00 (UTC)**: BTC recorded a -0.72% return rate within 15 minutes, with price fluctuating between 70,946.6 and 71,615.2 USDT, reaching an amplitude of 0.93%. Market attention increased during this period with active trading volume. Short-term selling pressure dominated the market, causing significant short-term volatility.
The primary driver of this price movement was the concentration of large on-chain BTC inflows into mainstream exchanges. Two large transfers totaling 2,150 BTC were detected flowing into exchanges during the 18:45-19:00 period, and
GateNews1h ago
Bitcoin Hits $69K Triggering $192M Liquidations As Traders Eye Next Move
_Bitcoin moved to $69K liquidated $103M in short positions within a $192M total market wipeout._
_Key liquidity clusters now sit between $66K–$69K and $71K–$74K creating a balanced market setup._
_Traders monitor whether BTC holds above $69K or targets lower liquidity near $66K._
Bitcoi
LiveBTCNews1h ago
