An analysis indicates that while trading activity in Asia has generated significant returns, it may not sufficiently drive the next phase of Bitcoin's bull run. Asian trading sessions recorded cumulative returns of approximately 46% over the past year, outperforming the U.S. (31%) and EU (29%). However, analysts suggest that liquidity, leverage, and overall macroeconomic conditions will predominantly shape the next steps of this cycle. Ryan Lee from Bitget credits regulatory clarity in Hong Kong for the increase in trading volumes in the Asia-Pacific region, which reached $2.36 trillion mid-2025. In contrast, U.S. and EU markets are largely driven by institutional investments. Although Asian markets show a rise in retail-driven trading, indicative of increased speculation, these trends may not alter the trajectory set by institutional players. The so-called 'Kimchi Premium' in South Korea points to higher Bitcoin prices due to capital controls, further revealing the unique trading environment in Asia. While the influx of retail trade may create short-term effects, the long-term dynamics are expected to remain influenced by institutional investment patterns from the U.S. and EU.

Source 🔗