Key Takeaways:
A dormant Satoshi-era whale moved another 40,192 BTC, worth $4.77 billion, to a new wallet.
The move follows a similar transfer of 40,009 BTC to Galaxy Digital earlier this week.
Blockchain data shows the whale originally received 80K BTC in April–May 2011, when Bitcoin was under $4.
The transfers suggest a possible sale, with 6,000 BTC already sent to Binance and Bybit.
Whale activity marks one of the largest old-balance awakenings in Bitcoin history.
A legendary Bitcoin whale dormant for over 14 years has moved the second half of its 80,000 BTC trove, worth approximately $4.77 billion, to a new wallet — just days after sending billions to Galaxy Digital, sparking speculation of a major liquidation.
According to blockchain analytics firm Lookonchain, the whale transferred 40,192 BTC on Thursday, following an earlier 40,009 BTC transfer to Galaxy Digital. Nansen data shows Galaxy later sent 6,000 BTC to Binance and Bybit, possibly to execute sales.
Whale Origin: Satoshi-Era Riches
The whale first caught attention on July 4, when it began moving funds for the first time since 2011. The addresses involved had received:
20,000 BTC on April 2, 2011, when Bitcoin was worth $0.78.
60,009 BTC on May 4, 2011, when BTC traded at $3.37.
Combined, the whale’s total 80,000 BTC was originally worth less than $220,000, but now exceeds $9.5 billion.
Broader Whale Context
While this dormant whale is showing signs of activity, other large holders remain steadfast:
Satoshi Nakamoto is believed to hold 1.096 million BTC that have never moved.
The Winklevoss twins reportedly own 70,000 BTC.
Tim Draper holds around 30,000 BTC.
Michael Saylor owns 17,732 BTC personally, aside from his firm’s large holdings.
The recent whale awakening comes as Bitcoin trades above $118,000, intensifying market interest in long-term holder behavior and potential selling pressure during new all-time highs.
