In a significant move that has caught the attention of the crypto community, Arthur Hayes, the prominent trader and co-founder of 100x, has offloaded 2,373 ETH (worth approximately $8.32 million), 7.76 million ENA tokens ($4.62 million), and nearly 3.9 billion PEPE tokens ($414,700) in recent transactions. The sales, tracked by on-chain analytics from Lookonchain, signal a strategic shift as Hayes navigates a turbulent market landscape.
Rationale Behind the Sell-Off
Hayes provided insight into his decision via a post on X, citing weakening economic signals and geopolitical developments as key drivers. He pointed to recent weak employment data and a proposal by former President Donald Trump to introduce new tariffs, suggesting that these factors are exerting increasing pressure on financial markets.
Anticipating a potential downturn, Hayes predicts that Bitcoin could test the $100,000 level, while Ethereum might drop to $3,000. This bearish short-term outlook reflects his assessment of macroeconomic headwinds impacting risk assets.
A Long-Term Optimist
Despite the sell-off, Hayes remains optimistic about the long-term prospects of the crypto market. He frames the current dip as a temporary adjustment, driven by external economic conditions rather than a fundamental flaw in the asset class.
In his view, the pressure from tariff proposals and sluggish job growth—indicators often linked to reduced consumer spending and economic contraction — could create a buying opportunity for those with a longer horizon.
His strategy appears to involve cashing out now to reposition for a potential rebound, a tactic consistent with his history of navigating market cycles.
Market Reactions and Implications
The sales have sparked varied reactions within the crypto community. Some interpret it as a signal to brace for a correction, with traders like @hybridstriker on X suggesting that Hayes’ moves often precede market shifts. Others, however, see it as a calculated move by a seasoned player, with @schizobullpost humorously advising to “buy when Arthur sells.” The timing aligns with broader market uncertainty, as investors digest the implications of U.S. economic policy and its ripple effects on global markets.
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Conclusion
Arthur Hayes’ recent liquidation of ETH, ENA, and PEPE underscores his cautious stance amid mounting macroeconomic pressures, including weak employment figures and proposed tariffs. While his short-term forecast points to a potential decline, his long-term optimism suggests confidence in crypto’s resilience. As the market watches closely, Hayes’ actions could serve as a barometer for future trends, reminding investors that even in turbulent times, strategic timing remains key to navigating the volatile world of digital assets.

