Bitcoin $100K in Sight: Whales Signal Possible Rebound?

Low volumes and mixed sentiment keep market on edge ahead of post-holiday activity.

Big Pi coin whale with on golden tooth floating in space.
Created by Gabor Kovacs from Ciphera

Bitcoin whales are on the move, withdrawing hundreds of millions in BTC as the market hovers near the critical $100K cost basis. While signs of a rebound are emerging, weak on-chain demand keeps the broader trend uncertain

Whales Make Moves 

Bitcoin whales have withdrawn a total of $278.7 million in BTC from BitGo wallets today, according to the comment from prominent investor Ted Pillows. 

Such large-scale movements are often interpreted as accumulation, suggesting that institutional or high-net-worth investors may be positioning for potential upside. Yet, despite these notable withdrawals, the broader market shows mixed signals.

On-chain demand remains weak, even with Bitcoin’s price rebounding above $93,000, highlighting that overall investor engagement has yet to fully recover, as per CryptoQuant’s analysts.

Market sentiment remains mixed and trading volumes are low, with little sign of increased on-chain activity. That could change once the holiday period ends and investors return to the market.

$100K Cost Basis Holds the Key

However, Bitcoin is currently trading below the cost basis of coins last moved six to twelve months ago. This cost basis currently sits around $100,000, according to CryptoQuant.

Historically, when the price remains below this level, the broader market structure tends to stay bearish, and downside risk remains elevated.

After weeks of sideways movement, Bitcoin is showing early signs of a rebound. But it still needs to reclaim the six- to twelve-month holder cost basis for the market structure to shift

Why This Matters

The market is at a delicate crossroads. Whale accumulation could be an early signal of renewed momentum, but weak on-chain demand underscores that broader participation has yet to follow.

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People Also Ask:

What does Bitcoin whale accumulation mean?

Whale accumulation occurs when large holders or institutional investors buy or move significant amounts of Bitcoin, often signaling confidence in potential price increases.

How does weak on-chain demand affect Bitcoin’s price?

Low on-chain activity suggests limited investor engagement, which can restrict price momentum and delay trend reversals despite bullish signals.

Why do trading volumes drop during the holiday season?

Investor activity often slows during holidays, reducing trading volumes and on-chain movement, which can temporarily dampen market trends.

Why is the $100K level critical for Bitcoin?

$100K aligns with the six- to twelve-month holder cost basis and represents a psychological and technical threshold that could confirm a trend reversal if surpassed.

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This article is for information purposes only and should not be considered trading or investment advice. Nothing herein shall be construed as financial, legal, or tax advice. Trading forex, cryptocurrencies, and CFDs pose a considerable risk of loss.

Author
Simona Ram

Simona Ram is the senior journalist at Ciphera, focusing on in-depth investigations of the cryptocurrency sector. Simona has minor holdings in Bitcoin.

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