Ethereum whale earned $ 274 million in profit amid crypto market volatility

An early investor in Ethereum has completely exited his position, making about $ 274 million in profit. According to analytical company Lookonchain, he accumulated 154,076 ETH at an average price of $ 517 and has been gradually transferring assets to the Bitstamp exchange in recent months.

The latest transactions included the transfer of 40,251 ETH ($ 124 million), and the final 26,000 ETH ($ 80.15 million) were transferred a few hours ago. In total, the investor realized a profit of approximately 344%. His exit took place in stages: the first transfers began eight months ago, when 137 ETH were sent to the exchange, followed by 17,000 ETH three months ago and 18,000 ETH a month ago.

The timing of the exits coincided with signs of caution among institutional investors in the United States. The Coinbase Premium Index for ETH remains negative, indicating that it is trading at a discount on the US exchange compared to global exchanges. This indicates increased sales pressure from professional market participants, which will continue in 2026.

Nevertheless, some analysts consider Ethereum to be undervalued. Quentin François emphasizes the gap between economic activity on the network and the current price. Milk Road adds that transaction volumes and commission generation continue to grow even as the ETH price lags behind this development.

Thus, the Ethereum market is in a difficult phase: on the one hand, early investors and institutional pressure, on the other hand, growing economic activity and strong fundamentals. It remains to be seen whether the ETH price will be able to level off in line with these factors.