Yeliz Akmaca 
Arthur Hayes, the crypto market’s attention turns again as he shifts from Ethereum to DeFi. The BitMEX co-founder sold 1,871 ETH worth $5.53 million, reallocating the funds directly into DeFi tokens. The timing is notable, with ETH still struggling below $3,000, highlighting Hayes’ confidence in decentralized finance.
On-chain data shows Hayes not only sold ETH but also withdrew $2.52 million from exchanges, moving it into DeFi assets. This is not a sudden trade but a deliberate two-week repositioning. His move increases ETH selling pressure while signaling a strategic tilt toward undervalued DeFi opportunities.
DeFi Portfolio Highlights
PENDLE dominates Hayes’ DeFi holdings, making up nearly 49% of the allocation at $1.75 million. LDO and ENA holdings are valued around $1.3 million and $1.24 million, respectively, while ETHFI is a smaller but strategic component at $343k. This allocation shows a concentrated confidence in certain DeFi projects rather than a broad diversification.
Liquidity Over Price Drops
Despite recent declines in PENDLE, LDO, and ETHFI, Hayes focuses on macro liquidity trends rather than short-term price movements. He expects fiat liquidity improvements to disproportionately benefit DeFi tokens over large-cap layer-one assets like Ethereum, challenging traditional market assumptions.
ETH Pressure Mounts
Hayes’ repeated ETH sales, including previous moves to Binance, reinforce the ongoing selling pressure. While Ethereum remains foundational, high-profile exits like Hayes’ increase negative sentiment and highlight a growing preference for DeFi tokens.
Arthur Hayes’ DeFi bet signals a shift in market focus. ETH remains under pressure, while DeFi tokens could see underappreciated gains as liquidity flows in. The outcome remains uncertain, but this strategic reallocation offers a strong market signal.
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