AI Token Whale Makes $11.5M in 19 Days as AI-Driven Cryptocurrencies Gain Traction

A cryptocurrency investor, commonly referred to as a “whale,” has seen significant financial gains, amassing over $11.5 million in the span of just 19 days

A cryptocurrency investor, known as a “whale,” has made substantial gains, amassing over $11.5 million in 19 days by holding an AI token. This investor had purchased more than $10 million in Virtuals Protocol tokens (VIRTUAL), a utility currency for a platform launching autonomous AI agents.

The purchase resulted in an unrealized profit of nearly $11.5 million, as reported by onchain intelligence platform Lookonchain. The whale's transaction involved 4.25 million VIRTUAL tokens, initially valued at $10 million and now worth approximately $21.5 million.

The VIRTUAL token gained attention on November 15, with a one-day surge of over 44% amid growing interest in AI-driven cryptocurrencies. It reached a peak of $5.07 on January 2, according to CoinMarketCap data.

Interest in AI agents on the blockchain stems from their potential to enhance online productivity, refine decision-making processes, and create new financial opportunities. AI agents have been operating autonomously on the blockchain, as seen in a transaction on December 16 where Luna, an AI agent from Virtuals Protocol, purchased image generation services from another autonomous AI agent, STIX Protocol. After receiving the service, Luna processed a payment of $1.77 in VIRTUAL tokens.

Market analysts anticipate significant developments and opportunities in the emerging sector of AI cryptocurrencies. In particular, platforms like ai16z and the decentralized trading protocol Hyperliquid are expected to experience growth in 2025, according to Alvin Kan, chief operating officer of Bitget Wallet. He notes the unfolding narratives around AI-led investments and decentralized AI agents, which are driving the tech-heavy narrative but also presenting inherent risks.

Despite the rise of AI-based cryptocurrencies, the broader crypto market faced challenges, with almost a third of their combined market value being wiped out in December 2024. AI cryptocurrencies specifically saw a decline of over 28% from their $70 billion high. However, the future of AI tokens continues to be a subject of strong interest and speculation within the crypto community.