U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs see $1.29B net outflows from Dec. 15–31 as 14,500 BTC hit thin holiday liquidity

From Dec. 15 to Dec. 31, U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded roughly $1.29 billion in net outflows, translating to about 14,500 BTC in selling pressure at a Bitcoin price near $89,000. Flows data show heavy redemptions spread across the complex, with IBIT making up nearly half of the net outflow, while just two sessions of strong inflows failed to offset several sharp withdrawal days amid thin year-end liquidity and macro uncertainty. The pattern has fueled debate over whether these ETFs function as long-term allocation vehicles or short-term trading tools as markets move into early 2026.