As the crypto markets approach February 2026, a palpable shift in sentiment is emerging, particularly among the largest holders—often referred to as “crypto whales.” Recent on-chain data reveals that these substantial investors are strategically accumulating select altcoins, suggesting they anticipate a significant market trend shift. BeInCrypto has identified three standout altcoins that appear to be favored by these whales and possess compelling upside potential as the market evolves.
Aster (ASTER)
Aster (ASTER) has gained traction as a prime target for whale accumulation. In just the past month, addresses holding over $1 million worth of ASTER have added approximately 15 million tokens to their portfolios. This robust purchasing activity signifies growing confidence among these well-capitalized investors, even while broader market sentiments may remain shaky.
Despite this accumulation, ASTER’s price trajectory tells a different story, having declined since mid-November 2025 and currently trading around $0.65. This downturn is largely symptomatic of weak short-term market sentiment. Nevertheless, with steadfast support from whales, there’s the potential for ASTER to rebound. Optimistic projections target a price of $0.71 in the coming weeks, and a bullish market could feasibly push it towards the coveted $1.00 mark.
However, the future of ASTER is highly susceptible to external factors. A shift in whale behavior or renewed market weakness could prompt a correction, possibly bringing the price down to $0.57 or lower. Such a movement would challenge the current bullish outlook and extend the corrective phase experienced since late last year.
Chilliz (CHZ)
Chilliz (CHZ) has reportedly emerged as another whale favorite in recent months. Addresses holding between 100 million and 1 billion CHZ have accumulated more than 100 million tokens, valued around $5 million. This activity highlights a growing bullish sentiment among significant holders, even amid broader market volatility that often spooks smaller investors.
During this accumulation phase, the price of CHZ has surged approximately 30%, now trading near $0.054. This upward movement aligns with the ongoing whale accumulation trend, usually a strong indicator of future price advancements. Prospective targets for CHZ include $0.066 in the medium term, with the potential for gains to extend toward $0.080 if buying momentum continues.
However, the prospect of profit-taking cannot be overlooked. Should large holders decide to lock in their gains, this could introduce increased selling pressure, leading to potential stalling or retracement of the price back to key support levels around $0.045 or even $0.041, which would complicate the bullish narrative.
Axie Infinity (AXS)
Axie Infinity (AXS) stands out significantly among altcoins, boasting an impressive performance that has seen its price soar approximately 213% since the start of January, currently trading near $2.55. This sharp rally signals a resurgence of investor interest and stronger market sentiment, placing AXS among the top-performing altcoins during this recent rebound.
With whale activity underpinning this upswing, addresses holding between 100,000 and 1 million AXS have accumulated more than 6 million tokens over the past month, a move valued at roughly $15 million. The continued support from these major holders could set the stage for AXS to target $3.00 in the short term and potentially reach $4.00 in a longer timeframe.
Nonetheless, investors should remain cautious, as a shift in whale behavior, particularly toward profit-taking, could rapidly alter the momentum within the AXS market. If significant sell-offs occur, the price might dip below the critical $2.00 threshold, instigating a downward spiral that could see it retreat further to levels around $1.30 or lower, thereby invalidating the current bullish outlook.
