Revealing whale games: 10 tricks they use to catch retail traders
Have you ever wondered why the market turns against you as soon as you enter a trade? It’s not bad luck that drives cryptocurrency whales to play their games. In the world of cryptocurrency, whales (large holders with massive fortunes) move the markets in ways designed to confuse and liquidate individual traders.
Here are 10 common whale tactics every beginner should know
1. Fake orders (spoofing)
Whales place massive fake orders to create the illusion of large movements. The orders disappear before execution.
Lesson: Do not rely solely on the order book.
2. Stop-loss hunting
They push the price below clear support levels to trigger stop-loss orders, then scoop up the cheap tokens.
Lesson: Avoid tight stop-loss orders in volatile markets.
3. Pump and dump
Whales buy quietly, push prices up to attract retail traders, then sell at the top.
Lesson: Do not chase sudden green candles.
4. Wash trading
They trade with themselves to create phantom volume, making the token appear active.
Lesson: Always check liquidity, not just volume.
5. Controlling the narrative
Whales spread noise or fear through influencers and media while positioning themselves.
Lesson: Verify the news before acting emotionally.
6. Range accumulation
They hold the market sideways to flush out retail, then rise when the weak hands are gone.
Lesson: Patience often overcomes panic.
7. Liquidity grabbing
Whales push prices into areas with many retail sell orders, gather liquidity, then reverse.
Lesson: Learn liquidity zones and do not place obvious orders.
8. Flash crash
Whales quickly sell large amounts of stock to cause panic selling, then buy it back at a cheaper price.
Lesson: Sudden large red candles can be opportunities, not just risks.
9. Whale walls
They set up massive walls for buying and selling to influence market sentiment. Retail traders believe the price cannot collapse, but whales remove the wall at the last moment.
Lesson: Do not blindly trust large walls in the order book.
10. Coordinated moves
Whales often collaborate across wallets or trading platforms or even multiple chains. This move seems natural, but it is carefully planned.
Lesson: Observe the patterns that recur in different markets.
How to stay safe
Do not chase pumps or sell in a panic at the dump.
Stick to long-term trends instead of short-term emotional trades.
Use proper risk management and position sizing.
Study charts and liquidity levels - knowledge is your shield.
The final word
Whales make money by exploiting retail traders' mistakes. But if you learn their tricks, you can turn the tables - instead of being the source of their liquidity, you can trade with confidence and discipline.
Are you still confused about whale tactics? Comment below, and I'll explain them in more detail.
