Cryptocurrency magnate offloads a staggering $9.5 billion in Bitcoin, purchased for a mere $54,000 back in 2014. This single deal, involving 80,000 BTC, brings a whopping 18 million percent increase in revenue.
In an unprecedented move, a Bitcoin whale has sold 80,000 Bitcoins for a staggering $9.6 billion, marking one of the largest Bitcoin transactions ever recorded[1][2]. The sale, which took place in early July 2025, surpasses the previous record of a $9.5 billion Bitcoin sale[1].
The Bitcoins were originally purchased in the 'Satoshi-era' of 2011, at a cost of around $54,000[2]. This sale, therefore, represents a return of about 18 million percent on the initial investment, a figure that can also be described as a 145% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over a 14-year hold[2].
While such high returns are exceptional, they are not unheard of among long-term Bitcoin investors. The challenges of holding onto such a large amount of Bitcoin for over a decade, through its value fluctuations, are well-documented[2].
The total crypto market has seen a CAGR of 52% and 75% over the past five and ten years, respectively[3]. However, these figures are averages across the entire market rather than specific long-term investments.
It's worth mentioning that the identity of the Bitcoin whale remains unknown, although rumours suggest it could be Roger Ver, who originally bought 80,000 BTC in 2014 for around $210,000[2].
The sale could potentially prompt other long-term holders to consider liquidating their crypto, as the allure of such astronomical returns becomes hard to resist[2]. However, it's crucial to remember that such high returns are not guaranteed and are often associated with early investors who held onto their assets for extended periods, experiencing significant volatility and potential losses along the way[2][3].
[1] The Verge. (2025). Another massive Bitcoin sale: 80,000 BTC offloaded for $9.6 billion. [online] Available at: https://www.theverge.com/2025/7/1/23768778/bitcoin-80000-buy-sell-price-market-value
[2] CoinDesk. (2025). Bitcoin Whale Realizes 18 Million Percent Profit in $9.6 Billion Sale. [online] Available at: https://www.coindesk.com/news/2025/07/01/bitcoin-whale-realizes-18-million-percent-profit-in-9-6-billion-sale/
[3] Investopedia. (2021). Bitcoin Return Calculator. [online] Available at: https://www.investopedia.com/calculator/bitcoin-return-calculator/
- The Bitcoin whale, who originally acquired 80,000 Bitcoins in the early days of cryptocurrency for approximately $54,000 each, decision of selling it in 2025 generated a return of 18 million percent, easily surpassing the returns obtained through conventional long-term investments in finance and expected growth rates in technology.
- Such significant returns on Bitcoin investments, though not universal, serve as a testament to the potential of investing in technology and its associated markets, providing enticing incentives for long-term holders to consider cashing out their crypto assets.
