PlanB Stock-to-Flow (S2F)

PlanB Stock-to-Flow (S2F) Indicator

Summary

The Stock-to-Flow (S2F) indicator measures Bitcoin’s scarcity by comparing its circulating supply (stock) to its annual new issuance (flow).

  • Each halving reduces new supply, making Bitcoin scarcer.

  • The model links scarcity to long-term price trends.

  • It is used to evaluate valuation, cycles, and market behavior.


Steps to Use the Stock-to-Flow (S2F) Indicator

1. Understand the Concept

  • Formula: S2F = Stock (circulating supply) ÷ Flow (annual issuance).

  • Halvings matter: Every halving cuts supply issuance, pushing the S2F ratio higher.

  • Why it matters: Assets with higher S2F (like gold) are scarce and often more valuable.

2. Interpret the Stock-to-Flow Indicator

  • Gray step line: The S2F model projection, rising after each halving.

  • Colored dots (BTC Price): Show the actual price, colored by months/days until next halving (red = far, blue = near).

  • Deviation: If price is above the line → possible overheated market.

    If price is below the line → potential undervaluation.

3. Analyze Historical Patterns

  • Price cycles: Bitcoin tends to oscillate around the S2F line.

  • Bull markets: Price often overshoots far above the model.

  • Bear markets: Price tends to dip below the model.

  • Error line (white dotted): Tracks the degree of deviation, helping identify extremes.

4. Make Decisions

  • Below the S2F line: Historically a good accumulation zone.

  • Above the S2F line: Indicates potential overvaluation and risk of correction.

  • Halving awareness: Expect shifts after halvings as new scarcity drives trends.

  • Use with other data: Always combine S2F with demand metrics (e.g., active addresses, transaction counts).

Tips

  • Combine with demand-side indicators for a complete picture.

  • Track deviations using the error line to spot overbought/oversold conditions.

  • Focus on halvings — they are the main drivers of shifts in the S2F ratio.

  • Use logarithmic scale charts to better visualize exponential growth.

  • Compare with history to spot recurring patterns across cycles.


Created By

The Stock-to-Flow model was created by PlanB (pseudonymous Bitcoin analyst).

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