Pump.fun’s PUMP token slipped sharply owing to speculation surrounding a potential crypto exposé. The dip followed a public statement from on-chain investigator ZachXBT, who warned of an upcoming report targeting a “profitable business.” 

The announcement triggered a swift shift in investor sentiment as crucial PUMP holders moved to offload their holdings.

ZachXBT Investigates Crypto Business

On Monday, ZachXBT posted on X that a major exposé was imminent. The post did not name the target, fueling widespread speculation. Since then, traders have debated potential candidates across social media platforms.

Betting activity on Polymarket surged as participants attempted to predict the outcome.

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Speculation Points To These Businesses

Polymarket data shows more than $4.6 million wagered on potential targets at the time of writing. Meteora leads the market, with over 48% of bettors predicting it will be exposed. Another 13.1% point to Axiom, while 11% suggest MEXC as the possible subject.

Only 10% of participants believe Pump.fun will be named. However, early speculation initially focused heavily on Pump.fun. That perception appeared to influence PUMP holders’ short-term behavior. Sentiment shifts often precede price volatility in speculative altcoins.

Key Holders React Swiftly

Nansen data indicates that smart money wallets reduced exposure to PUMP. Over the past 24 hours, their combined holdings declined by 35%, falling to 706.5 million PUMP. Such activity suggests experienced traders are managing risk amid uncertainty.

In contrast, Meteora’s large holders appear less concerned. Whale addresses holding over $1 million in MET tokens increased balances by 22.49% during the same period. This accumulation signals confidence among major investors despite bearish speculation.

Where Is PUMP Price Heading

Meteora (MET) price dropped 14.8% over the last 24 hours, trading at $0.170 at the time of writing. The token lost the $0.176 support level as confirmed by the Chaikin Money Flow indicator falling below zero. This move reflects strong capital outflows despite whale accumulation.

Pump.fun’s PUMP token recorded a 9.5% decline, trading at $0.001764 at the time of writing. The Money Flow Index fell below the neutral threshold, signaling rising selling pressure. If bearish momentum persists, PUMP price could decline toward the $0.00156 support zone.

Broader crypto market weakness adds additional pressure on speculative assets. Risk aversion often intensifies during uncertain events. Price volatility may continue until February 26, when speculation is expected to resolve. Until clarity emerges, both MET and PUMP remain vulnerable to further downside swings.

Disclaimer