Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has significantly accelerated his selling of Ether (ETH) throughout February 2026, liquidating a substantial portion of his holdings amidst a broader market correction. According to on-chain data from analytics firms Lookonchain and Arkham Intelligence, Buterin has sold a total of 10,723 ETH worth approximately $21.7 million since early February.
The selling pace intensified notably in the final days of the reported period. Data reveals that Buterin offloaded 3,765 ETH (worth about $7.08 million) in just the three days leading up to February 24. This followed an earlier sale of 1,869 ETH for $3.67 million. The average execution price across these transactions was approximately $2,027 per ETH.
This aggressive liquidation coincides with a sensitive period for Ethereum's price, which has been struggling to defend key support levels. At the time of reporting, ETH was testing the $1,825 support zone, having experienced a roughly 38% decline in value over the preceding 30 days. The sales have fueled debate and concern among traders, as large transfers from founder-labeled wallets are often interpreted as a potential signal of diminished near-term confidence.
Buterin and the Ethereum Foundation had previously announced a period of "mild austerity," stating that asset liquidation was necessary to fund ecosystem development, research grants, and open-source software initiatives. Despite the significant sales, on-chain data indicates that Buterin remains one of the largest individual ETH holders, with his main wallet still containing over 224,000 ETH valued at roughly $429 million.
The market impact is twofold: the sales create direct sell pressure, and the timing exacerbates existing bearish sentiment. Technical analysis cited in reports suggests Ethereum's market structure has weakened, with the asset losing the psychologically important $2,000 level. Charts indicated a confirmed bear flag breakdown and the formation of a "death cross" (50-day EMA crossing below the 200-day EMA), with analysts warning that a break below $1,800 could open the door for a decline toward the $1,500 zone.
