On-chain analytics firm CryptoQuant is flagging a notable shift in Bitcoin accumulation behavior: both whale and dolphin cohorts — the large and mid-tier holders that typically lead directional moves — have stalled their buying activity as broader demand metrics remain subdued.
Accumulation pauses at these cohort levels are a meaningful bearish signal because whales and dolphins historically absorb sell-side pressure during corrections. When they step back, the market loses one of its key structural supports, leaving price action more exposed to spot selling and macro headwinds.
For traders watching on-chain flow, the combination of stalled accumulation and weak demand suggests the current price level has not yet triggered a conviction buy from the market's largest participants — a condition that often precedes further consolidation or downside before a sustainable recovery takes hold.
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