The Ethereum price is hovering near a critical long-term zone as whales reshuffle billions of dollars in holdings, adding fresh uncertainty to an already fragile market. While price action remains weak in the short term, analysts say the asset has returned to a historical accumulation range.

Recent on-chain activity shows a surge in whale transfers, liquidations, and strategic repositioning, all unfolding as Ethereum (ETH) struggles to defend support near the $1,800 level, a price area many traders now view as decisive for the next market direction.

Ethereum Price Tests Long-Term Demand Zone

Market analysts note that the Ethereum price has fallen back into a five-year demand area previously seen during the 2022–2023 bear market and the brief April 2025 crash. Historically, this range has attracted accumulation rather than distribution, suggesting long-term investors may be stepping in despite weak momentum.

Currently, Ethereum trades around $1,828, down roughly 3.1% over the past 24 hours, with a market cap near $220 billion and elevated derivatives activity signaling continued volatility. Futures trading volume has exceeded $51 billion in a single day, while more than $100 million in leveraged positions were liquidated.

Technically, ETH remains below key resistance levels. Price recently slipped under $1,900 and the 100-hour moving average, with analysts identifying $1,820 as immediate support and $1,900–$1,920 as a major resistance zone. A sustained break below support could expose downside targets near $1,780 or even $1,720.

Whale Activity Signals Market Stress

Large holders have played a major role in recent price pressure. One whale liquidated 7,200 ETH worth about $13.4 million at a loss exceeding $600,000 after exiting a position opened at higher prices.

Another long-term holder sold nearly 23,924 ETH valued at over $45 million before opening leveraged long positions, indicating expectations of further short-term volatility.

Meanwhile, a separate wallet transferred 12,000 ETH to a major exchange, potentially locking in losses exceeding $29 million if sold. Exchange inflows are often interpreted as potential sell signals because they increase market supply.

Adding to the narrative, Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has sold more than 8,800 ETH this month, though analysts say the transactions are tied to funding ecosystem development rather than a shift in long-term confidence.

Institutions Accumulate Despite Weak Price Action

While some whales reduce exposure, institutional players appear to be moving in the opposite direction. Mining and infrastructure firm BitMine Immersion Technologies recently acquired 51,162 ETH for its corporate treasury and continues expanding its holdings through staking strategies designed to generate yield.

This divergence between insider selling, whale repositioning, and institutional accumulation reflects a market caught between short-term fear and long-term conviction.

In the short run, the Ethereum price outlook hinges on whether buyers can defend the $1,800 region. Holding this level could reinforce the idea of a multi-year accumulation phase, while a breakdown may trigger another wave of liquidations across leveraged markets.

Cover image from ChatGPT, ETHUSD chart on Tradingview

---

Filed under: Bitcoin - @ February 24, 2026 8:00 pm