Bitcoin’s push to $98K is driven by whale accumulation, while retail traders sell off, signaling a potential bull run ahead.
Bitcoin’s recent surge toward $98K is not a random event. On-chain data shows consistent accumulation from large investors, while retail traders are selling.
This divergence in behavior suggests that Bitcoin price movement is being driven by smart money, rather than retail speculation.
Whales Are Driving Bitcoin’s Price Increase
Since January 10, whales and sharks holding 10 to 10,000 BTC have increased their holdings by 32,693 BTC.
This accounts for a +0.24% rise in their collective positions. Whales are continuing to accumulate Bitcoin, which suggests confidence in the long-term value of the asset.
📈 Bitcoin’s jump to a high of $97.8K Wednesday appeared more than justified based on continued smart money accumulation, and retail traders dumping.
📊 Updating our report from last week, the latest updated chart has 5 color codes:
🟥 Whales dumping, Retail accumulating (VERY… https://t.co/BxUXzjN4Bu pic.twitter.com/ykaj5WNowP
— Santiment (@santimentfeed) January 15, 2026
In contrast, smaller retail investors have been selling off their Bitcoin.
Wallets holding less than 0.01 BTC have sold a total of 149 BTC, reducing their collective holdings by -0.30%.
This behavior shows that retail investors are hesitant about Bitcoin’s price movements.
The contrast between whale accumulation and retail selling is a key indicator of market sentiment.
While retail traders seem to doubt the rally, whales are betting on future growth.
Retail Traders Are Taking Profits Amid Market Uncertainty
Retail investors have been quick to take profits amid Bitcoin price surge.
Smaller wallets are likely worried about a potential “bull trap,” which could cause prices to fall. Their actions suggest a lack of confidence in the sustainability of the rally.
As Bitcoin approaches $98K, retail traders are cashing out their positions. This has led to a decrease in the number of small holders in the market.
However, their sell-off could also create an opportunity for whales to accumulate more Bitcoin.
Retail traders are often more reactive to market movements. Their selling behavior contrasts sharply with the strategic accumulation seen from whales.
Related Reading: Bitcoin Whales Keep Buying: 100+ BTC Addresses Break Record
Bitcoin’s Bullish Signal Smart Money Accumulating
Smart money, including whales and sharks, has been consistently accumulating Bitcoin since December 17.
Over this period, they have added 56,227 BTC to their holdings, marking a key bottom in Bitcoin price. This accumulation is a clear sign of confidence in Bitcoin’s future value.
The gap between whale accumulation and retail selling is growing. As whales continue to add to their positions, Bitcoin price is likely to see more upward pressure.
The consistent buying from large investors suggests a bullish trend in the market.
This behavior creates a strong bullish signal for Bitcoin. With whales in control, the market could continue to rise, despite retail traders’ caution.
The ongoing accumulation suggests that the current price movement is likely to continue.