Dormant Bitcoin Whale Moves $75.6M Amid Fed Rate Decision, Sparks Market Speculation
September 17, 2025
This large transfer, flagged by blockchain trackers, often causes market fears of sell-offs, but most such movements do not hit exchanges directly, though they can influence investor sentiment.
A long-dormant Bitcoin whale moved 137.03 BTC, worth about $16 million, originating from an initial purchase in 2012 when Bitcoin was just over $12 per coin.
Just hours before the Federal Reserve's interest rate decision on September 17, 2025, the whale transferred 650 BTC, approximately $75.6 million, from Coinbase Prime to an inactive wallet.
The wallet first received its coins when Bitcoin's price was around $847, highlighting the holder's long-term commitment.
The total crypto market cap remains around $3.95 trillion, indicating a highly liquid and active environment amid growing institutional interest.
The activity of long-term Bitcoin holders reactivating their assets adds intrigue to the rally, especially as early investors and large holders continue to engage actively.
Moving significant Bitcoin off exchanges is generally seen as a bullish signal, suggesting the holder may be preparing to hold rather than sell, especially in the context of the upcoming Fed rate decision.
Market sentiment suggests the Federal Reserve is expected to cut interest rates by 25 basis points, which is contributing to increased market volatility.
Crypto asset managers note that volatility is likely, and Bitcoin's future price depends on whether bullish momentum sustains or a sell-off occurs.
Some analysts interpret the recent large transfers as profit-taking or portfolio rebalancing, with Bitcoin reaching new highs above $110,000.
Institutional inflows are rising, with Bitcoin spot ETFs experiencing $757 million in inflows in a single day, the highest since July, reflecting increasing participation from large investors.
Bitcoin's current price hovers around $115,000 to $116,790, showing slight fluctuations but remaining above recent lows, amid optimism ahead of the Fed's decision.
Summary based on 6 sources
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Sources

Cointelegraph • Sep 17, 2025
Bitcoin whale awakens after 12 years, transfers 1,000 BTC before US Fed meeting
Decrypt • Sep 11, 2025
Bitcoin Whale Awakens After Nearly 13 Years—Why Now?
U.Today • Sep 17, 2025
$75,618,633 Bitcoin Withdrawal Strikes Coinbase on Eve of Fed Rate Verdict
CryptoSlate • Sep 11, 2025
Dormant Bitcoin whale last active at $12 per BTC awakens sending funds to Kraken