ASTER surges 12% as whales and smart money reduce holdings

TLDR

• Whales sold nearly 8 million ASTER worth $12M within one week.
• Smart money trimmed holdings by 5% as exchange reserves climbed.
• ASTER trades in a descending triangle with resistance at $1.59.
• Money Flow Index shows weak retail buying despite a 12% daily gain.

Aster (ASTER) has posted a strong 12% gain within 24 hours, sparking brief optimism across the market. However, the broader picture remains cautious, as the token is still down more than 22% for the week. While the short-term rebound draws attention, data from the blockchain indicates that larger investors may be using this rally as an opportunity to exit their positions.

Whales and Smart Money Cut Exposure

On-chain data shows a broad sell-off among major Aster holders. Addresses owning over 10 million ASTER have reduced their positions by nearly 20% in the past week. This selling activity totals about 8.05 million tokens, worth roughly $12 million at the current price. Such a large reduction from high-value holders often reflects a cautious or bearish stance toward the token’s short-term outlook.

Smart money addresses, which often represent early or well-informed investors, have also trimmed their exposure. Their holdings have dropped by about 5%, equal to around 59,000 ASTER. Meanwhile, exchange balances have increased by approximately 12.3 million tokens in the last 24 hours. This rise suggests more tokens are being transferred to trading platforms, a move that often precedes additional selling.

Retail Traders Remain Hesitant

Retail participation also appears to be weakening. The Money Flow Index (MFI), which measures buying and selling pressure, continues to fall, showing that smaller investors are not taking advantage of lower prices. According to data from TradingView, the MFI’s consistent decline signals that retail traders are not confident enough to buy the dip.

This trend supports the broader on-chain picture of fading demand. As exchange reserves rise and large holders sell, retail traders seem to be following the same direction. Market analysts note that such uniform behavior across all investor groups is uncommon and may indicate a lack of conviction in the short-term price recovery.

Technical Setup Shows a Bearish Pattern

From a technical standpoint, ASTER is trading within a descending triangle pattern on the 4-hour chart. This structure often appears during periods of waning demand. The key support zones are near $1.30, $1.15, and $0.98. A drop below these levels could expose the token to deeper price corrections.

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For bulls to regain control, ASTER must close above the crucial resistance level of $1.59. A breakout above this mark could invalidate the bearish setup and open a move toward $1.72 or even $2.02. Market observers emphasize that sustained price action above $1.59 would be needed to change the current sentiment.

Indicators Suggest Weak Momentum

The Relative Strength Index (RSI) also signals reduced buying strength. Analysts point to a hidden bearish divergence, where RSI moves higher while prices make lower highs. This pattern suggests fading momentum, which often precedes further downward movement if buying pressure does not return.

At present, ASTER’s outlook remains uncertain. The token’s brief surge may offer short-term relief, but data from whales, smart money, and retail traders all point to continued caution. Unless the price breaks above $1.59 with strong volume, the overall market tone could stay defensive.