ROME, October 10 — A new trend in the cryptocurrency market, as reported by blockchain analytics firm CryptoQuant, suggests a late-stage bear market as large Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and XRP (XRP) holders accumulate their assets. According to CryptoQuant’s head of research, Julio Moreno, this hoarding behavior could indicate whales preparing for the next market cycle, though a bottom has yet to be confirmed.
In August 2026, Bitcoin whale balances, excluding exchange and mining pool holdings, rose to approximately 3.06 million BTC from a low near 2.87 million BTC in December 2025. Ether wallets holding between 10,000 and 100,000 ETH increased their combined balance to a record 19.6 million ETH from about 14 million ETH in mid-2025.
Wallets with more than 100,000 ETH added approximately 1.8 million ETH, while the 1,000-to-10,000 ETH group fell to 12.9 million ETH from 15.6 million ETH in January. XRP whales also maintained large spot orders while the token traded between $1.00 and $1.20. Bitcoin’s realized price, representing the average price at which coins were last moved, stood at around $52,900, compared with a market price of approximately $64,640.
XRP traded near $1.10 against a realized price of about $0.75, while Ether remained below its own benchmark. The mechanics here suggest a bear market, with large holders buying up their assets at cheaper prices in anticipation of a market rebound.
However, on closer reading, the catch is that a bottom has yet to be confirmed, indicating that the bear market may persist for some time. What it means for investors As whales continue to accumulate their holdings, the price of these cryptocurrencies could face further downward pressure in the short term. However, this accumulation could also signal a potential bull market in the making, as whales position themselves for a recovery.
Investors may choose to exercise caution and diversify their portfolios, considering alternative cryptocurrencies or traditional investments. It is also essential to stay informed about market trends and developments to make informed decisions. The bigger picture The cryptocurrency market remains a volatile and unpredictable landscape, with prices fluctuating wildly and new developments arising regularly.
As such, it is crucial for investors to stay informed, exercise caution, and approach the market with a long-term perspective. The trend of whale accumulation underscores the ongoing importance of understanding the market dynamics and making informed decisions based on reliable data and analysis.
With the potential for both significant gains and losses, the cryptocurrency market remains an exciting and challenging arena for investors. In the coming weeks, it will be essential to monitor the market closely for further developments and trends. As always, investors are advised to do their due diligence and consult with financial advisors before making any investment decisions.
