Ethereum Whale Moves $9.96 Million to Kraken
An Ethereum participant in the initial coin offering (ICO) and a long-time supporter of the smart contract platform has transferred 6,000 ETH worth $9.96 million to the cryptocurrency exchange Kraken, according to recent data from Lookonchain on September 18.
Whale Transfers and Market Impact
The anonymous nature of public blockchains like Ethereum makes it difficult to determine the identity of the owner. However, when whales transfer their holdings to crypto exchanges, it is generally seen as a bearish sign as it provides an easier way for them to sell their tokens and cash out. These large holders have the potential to influence market prices due to the sheer size of their holdings, leading to increased volatility. Therefore, the recent deposit to Kraken may indicate that the whale intends to sell and take profits.
Possible Staking Strategy
On the other hand, it is also possible that the whale is moving their coins through Kraken as an intermediary before transferring them to other platforms like Rocket Pool or Lido Finance for staking. Under Ethereum’s proof-of-stake consensus algorithm, whales can earn annual staking rewards by locking at least 32 ETH. While they can set up their own nodes for staking, liquidity staking providers like Rocket Pool offer infrastructure for users to stake coins and earn rewards.
ETH Prices Recovering
The transfer on September 18 coincides with a broader recovery in the crypto market. Ethereum (ETH) prices have increased by approximately 6% from their September lows. This positive movement has helped reverse some of the losses from September 11 and could potentially lead to further growth in the coming days. Bulls are optimistic that ETH could surpass $1,750, the August 29 highs, and recover from the sharp losses recorded on August 17.
Technical Analysis and Support Levels
Despite the recent recovery, ETH remains under pressure, having dropped 23% from its 2023 highs. However, buyers have a chance to push the price up as long as they can prevent lower lows. The September and August 2023 lows are critical support levels for ETH, with the retest of the August 17 lows on September 11 causing concern for optimistic traders.
Hot Take: Ethereum Whale Moves $9.96 Million to Kraken Amid Market Recovery
An anonymous Ethereum whale has recently transferred $9.96 million worth of ETH to the cryptocurrency exchange Kraken. This move could be seen as bearish since it provides an easier way for the whale to sell their tokens and cash out. However, it is also possible that the whale is preparing to stake their coins through other platforms. Meanwhile, Ethereum prices are recovering and supporters are optimistic about future growth. Despite recent losses, buyers have a chance to drive up the price if they can maintain support levels. Overall, this transfer highlights the influence of whales in the crypto market and their potential impact on prices.