Shiba Inu (SHIB) has kicked off 2026 with notable momentum, recording an impressive 13% price increase in a single day. This surge comes as on-chain data reveals that significant holders are tightening their grip on the asset, reflecting a concentrated accumulation trend among major wallets.
As of now, SHIB has risen approximately 30% since the start of the year, with its recent rally pushing prices to around $0.00000875. This upward movement follows a rebound from late December lows, accompanied by a brief price pullback after testing higher levels.
Wallet Concentration Signals Strong Demand
Data indicates a substantial increase in concentration among the top holders of SHIB. The ten largest wallets currently control about 62.6% of the total supply, with the largest wallet alone possessing nearly 41%, valued at approximately $3.3 billion. This trend highlights a structural shift, as large holders have been steadily accumulating or maintaining their positions rather than selling during market fluctuations.
Despite recent price weaknesses, the accumulation trend among these wallets has persisted, showcasing their confidence in the asset”s potential. As Shiba Inu continues to capture attention, its price jumped by 13% on a recent Sunday, fueled by a broader meme coin market rotation.
Market Dynamics and Price Resilience
The TradingView price chart highlights a sharp acceleration for SHIB at the start of the year, bolstered by increasing trading volumes during the upward movement. While a minor pullback occurred after reaching recent peaks, the price remains significantly above late December levels, indicating strong support from buyers.
The combination of rising prices with a high concentration of holdings suggests that the market supply is becoming increasingly limited. Historically, such conditions can lead to amplified price movements, particularly during periods of renewed speculative interest.
As Shiba Inu gains traction in early 2026, the dominance of whale wallets remains a crucial factor influencing short-term price dynamics. Any changes in behavior from these large holders could have a significant impact on market sentiment and price stability.
Overall, Shiba Inu has initiated the year with robust volatility and heightened market interest, as data indicates that whales are firmly in control of this emerging trend.
