Ethereum Drops 5.2% to $2,492 Amid Whale Accumulation and Volatility

Coin WorldSaturday, May 17, 2025 9:21 am ET
1min read

Ethereum’s recent price drop to $2,492 has sparked significant interest among crypto investors, highlighting a complex interplay of whale activities, market sentiment, and price fluctuations. Despite the decline, there are indications of strong accumulation by large holders, suggesting a strategic move to capitalize on current market conditions.

Whale wallets holding between 10,000 and 100,000 ETH have increased their holdings to 16.793 million ETH, demonstrating a bullish long-term perspective. This accumulation is further supported by an 84.22% weekly spike in ETH outflows from exchanges, indicating that major investors are transferring assets to cold storage or staking platforms for security.

However, the market sentiment remains volatile, as evidenced by a recent sale of 10,543 ETH by a significant whale at $2,476. This sale reflects persistent market unease and may induce caution among smaller investors. The divergence in whale activities suggests that while some are doubling down on their holdings, others are signaling caution.

On-chain data revealed a significant shift in asset movements: $398 million worth of Tether (USDT) flowed into Binance, while $540 million worth of ETH was withdrawn from centralized exchanges on the same day. This marks the largest single-day ETH net withdrawal since early April, indicating that large holders are preparing to capitalize on current ETH prices, which are perceived as conducive for accumulation.

Ethereum’s network reported an 18.73% increase in new addresses over the past week, indicating growing interest. However, Active Addresses saw a 3.18% decrease, suggesting that while new interest is growing, existing user engagement is waning. This divergence implies that while the long-term outlook for Ethereum might be brightening, current market conditions are leading many existing users to adopt a more cautious stance.

Ethereum recently touched $2,629, aligning with the 2.618 Fibonacci extension, before retreating. The current price hovers near $2,492, positioned between crucial support and resistance zones. Stochastic RSI readings indicate neutral momentum, suggesting that ETH might be in a consolidation phase before a decisive breakout occurs. Monitoring price action around this Fibonacci level will be essential. A sustained hold above $2,292 (Fib 1.618) could pave the way for upward continuation.

Despite the recent price drop, Ethereum reveals strong whale support and rising stablecoin inflows. If buyers defend current levels, a rebound toward $2,800 may still hold potential. The complex tapestry of whale activities, price fluctuations, and market sentiment underscores the need for cautious optimism among crypto investors.