**Bitcoin Market Sentiment Shifts as Funding Rates Plummet**

Bitcoin funding rates on Binance, the world's largest crypto exchange, have hit their lowest levels this year, signaling a notable change in market sentiment. CryptoQuant analyst EgyHash reports that Binance's Bitcoin (BTC) funding rates have been negative for three days straight, a bearish trend last seen in October 2023.

- **Market Sentiment**: Negative funding rates indicate traders with short positions (betting on BTC's price drop) are paying those with long positions, showing a higher demand for shorts.

- **Institutional Interest**: A 10x Research report from Aug. 16 highlights a lack of institutional interest in BTC, with stablecoin inflows—a key indicator of BTC buying activity—remaining low.

- **ETFs Positive**: Despite the bearish funding rates, spot BTC exchange-traded funds (ETFs) saw $11.11 million in inflows on Aug. 15, pushing the total net asset value to $51.99 billion, suggesting ongoing interest from institutional and retail investors.

This mixed sentiment reflects a complex market landscape, with bearish funding rates countered by positive ETF inflows.