FameEX Hot Topics | New Satoshi Theory Identifies '2010 Megawhale' as Bitcoin's Possible Creator

Bitcoin researchers have proposed a new theory that Satoshi Nakamoto, the pseudonymous Bitcoin creator, may not have vanished but has been strategically cashing out Bitcoin from early wallets since 2019. In a November 19 post, Bitcoin research firm BTCparser suggested that Nakamoto could be linked to a set of Bitcoin wallets from 2010, each containing 50 Bitcoin, which remained dormant until their first transaction in late 2019.

BTCparser referred to this activity as the "2010 megawhale," theorizing that Nakamoto intentionally left the 2009 wallets untouched to avoid scrutiny. “It leads me to suspect that the enigmatic 2010 megawhale might actually be Satoshi,” BTCparser wrote. Despite the compelling observations, the firm emphasized that this remains purely a theory and not a confirmed conclusion.

The theory paints Nakamoto as a figure who carefully planned to maintain anonymity. BTCparser speculated that Satoshi opted to use Bitcoin from the 2010 wallets rather than the iconic 2009 addresses, which are more closely monitored. By avoiding the use of the original stash, Nakamoto could preserve privacy and reduce the chances of exposing their identity. The research noted, “Using these later coins avoids drawing attention to the original stash, preserving anonymity and reducing the risk of revealing Satoshi’s identity.”

The liquidation of Bitcoin from these wallets followed a structured pattern. Initially, funds were pooled into a single P2SH address, typically used for escrow, before being distributed to multiple bech32 addresses, known for lower transaction fees and efficient blockchain usage. This systematic approach highlights deliberate planning in the handling of the funds.

The first significant sale occurred in November 2019, with $5 million worth of Bitcoin liquidated. Subsequent sales ranged between $6-8 million in March 2020 and $11-13 million in October 2020. The largest sale, totaling $176 million, took place on November 15, 2024. BTCparser noted that these transactions align with Bitcoin’s increasing value, suggesting the whale has been cashing out strategically.

BTCparser speculated that the cryptocurrency exchange receiving these deposits likely has insights into the individual or entity behind the transactions, unless intermediaries were used to obscure their identity. While the theory remains unproven, it adds new intrigue to the enduring mystery surrounding Satoshi Nakamoto.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this section is for informational purposes only, doesn't represent any investment advice or FameEX's official view.