Bitcoin's Sleeping Giants Stir: Long-Dormant Wallets Roar Back to Life
Long-dormant Bitcoin wallets are coming back to life in 2026. According to Galaxy Research, between August 29 and September 4, at least four dormant wallets moved a combined 202.84 BTC (approximately $15.73 million or ¥2.5 billion). One wallet that was inactive since November 2013 moved 146.06 BTC for an acquisition cost of around $595 per coin, resulting in a gain of approximately 12,902%.
This is not the only notable movement from old wallets. A 10 BTC wallet inactive since June 2011 moved approximately $777,000 (¥120 million), and a 6.78 BTC wallet whose last activity was in February 2011, also started moving again. The latter's destination appears to be Coinbase, suggesting potential selling pressure on the market.
The movements of these long-term holders may indicate opportunities for profit as Bitcoin prices remain high. However, it is unclear what drives this sudden awakening of dormant wallets. Some speculate that holders are anticipating how the Noah Doe lawsuit will unfold, while others see a chance to take profits at current price levels.