Pension-usdt.eth loses $24 million on ether in 12 seconds after 50,000 ETH short

Recent trading activities have highlighted the volatility of the cryptocurrency market, particularly with a dramatic incident involving the Hyperliquid wallet named pension-usdt.eth. This wallet faced a staggering loss of $24 million in just 12 seconds due to an unexpected surge in the price of ether. The incident occurred as the trader was forced out of a substantial 50,000 ETH short position, with five liquidation orders contributing to the price spike during the unwind process.
To provide some context, shorting is a trading strategy that profits when the price of an asset declines. Traders borrow assets to sell them at the current market price, with the hope of repurchasing them later at a lower price. However, when prices rise instead, short positions can be liquidated, leading to significant losses. The ether market has experienced considerable fluctuations recently, making it a risky environment for shorting, particularly with large positions like the one held by pension-usdt.eth.
This incident is significant for the overall crypto market as it underscores the inherent risks associated with leveraged trading and the rapid price movements that can occur in the space. The loss of $24 million in such a brief period serves as a cautionary tale for traders who may underestimate the volatility of cryptocurrencies. It also raises questions about the mechanisms in place that can trigger multiple liquidations, amplifying price movements in both directions.
Industry experts have expressed mixed reactions to this event. Some believe it highlights the need for better risk management practices among traders, especially in a market known for its unpredictability. Others argue that such incidents could lead to increased market volatility, as large liquidations can create a domino effect, further pushing prices in one direction. Overall, it serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of aggressive trading strategies in the crypto space.
Looking ahead, this incident may prompt traders to reassess their strategies and risk tolerance. As the market continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see whether regulatory changes or new trading tools emerge to help manage these risks. For now, the story of pension-usdt.eth serves as a stark reminder of the challenges and dangers that come with trading in the cryptocurrency market.
CoinMagnetic Team
Crypto investors since 2017. We trade with our own money and test every exchange ourselves.
Updated: August 2026
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