- Ethereum whales move hundreds of millions in ETH, staking some while selling others, signaling strong market influence and strategy.
- Institutional interest and rebounding liquidity are fueling altcoin season potential, with Ethereum leading the charge for investors.
- ICO whales and large transfers show profit-taking and long-term holding, highlighting mixed strategies amid rising altcoin momentum.
Ethereum markets are witnessing massive whale activity as September nears, with signs pointing toward a potential altcoin season. A fresh wallet withdrew 60,000 ETH worth $284.76 million from Coinbase Prime last night, according to Arkham.
The whale then staked the funds, moving 3,200 ETH worth $14.75 million to four wallets, one of which deposited directly into Coinbase Staking. This move comes as institutions increase exposure to Ethereum, further stoking market anticipation.
Besides this, an early Ethereum ICO participant has also been active. The wallet “0x815” sent 1,060 ETH worth $5.1 million to Kraken on Thursday, marking the fourth such transfer in a week.
Earlier transactions included 2,000 ETH on Monday, followed by 1,162 ETH and 1,121 ETH on Tuesday and Wednesday. These transfers total roughly $24.1 million this week. The wallet still holds 4,657 ETH worth $21.9 million, while over 50,000 ETH remain across other wallets.
Exchange Flows Hint at Strategic Moves
Such consistent transfers to exchange deposit addresses often suggest selling, though ownership may still remain with the whale. Onchain data shows this ICO participant initially received 100,000 ETH for $31,100, now worth $471 million.
Hence, even partial liquidations represent profits. Moreover, the simultaneous staking activity from the new whale signals mixed strategies—some opting for long-term yield while others possibly taking profits ahead of market volatility.
Coinbase Institutional reports that the conditions for altcoin season are forming. The Altcoin Season Index currently stands at 40%, below the 75% threshold, but liquidity conditions are improving.
After six months of decline, trading volumes, orderbook depth, and net stablecoin issuance are all rebounding. This growth is partly driven by a clearer regulatory environment, boosting institutional confidence.
Additionally, digital asset treasuries and stablecoin adoption are helping Ethereum lead the charge in the altcoin space. Consequently, a capital rotation from other assets into altcoins could accelerate in late Q3 and early Q4 2025. Hence, institutional interest in ETH may act as the primary driver for the next stage of market expansion.
