What Is a “Whale” in the Context of Cryptocurrency Trading?

A "whale" is an individual or entity that holds a disproportionately large amount of a specific cryptocurrency. Due to their large holdings, their trading activity ⎊ especially a large buy or sell ⎊ can significantly influence the market price.

Whales are the primary users of crypto OTC desks, as their trades on public exchanges would cause extreme slippage and volatility.

Why Might a Whale Choose to Execute a Trade ‘Off-Exchange’ or Over-the-Counter (OTC)?
Are Crypto OTC Desks Subject to the Same Regulatory Oversight as Traditional Dark Pools?
Are Dark Pools Used in Cryptocurrency Markets to Prevent Information Leakage?
Can Options and Derivatives Be Traded via OTC Desks More Easily than on Exchanges?
What Is the Global Regulatory Trend for Crypto OTC Desks?
Can Retail Investors Access Crypto OTC Desks?
What Are the Typical Fee Structures for Crypto OTC Trading Compared to Exchange Trading?
How Do OTC Desks Utilize Request for Quote (RFQ) Systems?