Cryptos in chaos: what the whales are doing after Trump’s market-melting announcement

A weekend of panic and profit: how major crypto players turned volatility into opportunity after Trump's 100% China tariff shock.

The recent announcement by Donald Trump of 100% tariffs on Chinese imports shook global markets, sending the crypto world on a wild rollercoaster ride. While many investors panicked, the so-called “whales” — large-scale investors — seized the opportunity to make bold strategic moves, for better or worse.

On Friday, the market lost billions within hours. Then, following more conciliatory statements from Trump on Sunday, a rebound reignited speculation. In this volatile environment, several major traders opened high-leverage positions on Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other altcoins. Some pocketed millions in gains, while others suffered heavy losses.

One advisor at World Liberty Financial, for instance, initially lost over $2.4 million, only to jump back in and place a $14 million bet on Bitcoin. Another whale closed short positions on BTC and ETH with an estimated profit of $200 million, before reopening a $161 million short.

Even those who lost money, like trader 0xb9fe, returned to the game, investing $72 million in Ethereum and quickly turning a profit of over $3 million. Some addresses have managed to recover losses, while others remain on edge.

It wasn't just leveraged trading in play — the spot market also saw major activity. One wallet moved 15,000 ETH (worth $57 million) to exchanges, while a long-dormant Bitcoin whale sold for the first time in 13 years.

The turbulent weekend revealed a clear divide between those who sold in fear and those who bought in at the dip. Once again, the whales have shown that in crypto, speed — and a cool head — make all the difference.