Cardano (ADA) price is flashing mixed signals as bullish analyst forecasts clash with bearish whale activity.

The market is struggling for direction amid crypto volatility, with top altcoin rallying last 24 hours. Despite optimism from top analysts, the recent sale of 180 million ADA by whales raises concerns about price strength and continuation.

Crypto analyst ALLINCRYPTO shared a bullish Cardano (ADA) forecast, predicting a potential rally toward $4, based on a recurring price cycle from 2020 to mid-2021, when top meme coin prices consolidated before surging to $3 in a historic breakout.

According to his analysis, ADA’s current market setup closely mirrors that pre-breakout structure from the last cycle.

Annually repeating pattern on the meme coin price chart

Specifically, the analyst highlighted a clear pattern of accumulation and expansion repeating over time. He argued that ADA price could reach $4 if the final phase of consolidation ends in a similar breakout, adding that although Cardano price is currently far from its all-time high, the historical roadmap remains valid.

However, market conditions have changed significantly since ADA’s previous cycle. While the analysis is data-driven, factors such as macroeconomic risk and broader market liquidity may limit upside potential.

Even with similar chart patterns, traders must observe confirmation through increased volume and structural resistance tests for a breakout to occur.

Analyst Identified Triangle Consolidation

Meanwhile, crypto analyst Ali Martinez offered a complementary technical perspective, identifying a symmetrical triangle pattern on ADA’s daily chart.

Usually, triangle formations suggest a balance between buyers and sellers, setting the stage for a significant breakout.

Martinez noted this tightening range in an April 18 update, predicting a potential 30% move once ADA exits the pattern.

Interestingly, the top altcoin position inside this triangle aligns with recent price action. The asset was holding above $0.61 at the time of analysis, gradually pushing toward the upper boundary of the triangle.

A clean breakout could push the ADA price to $0.82, assuming the 30% projection plays out.

30% Move Expected After Symmetrical Triangle Plays Out

“The symmetrical triangle pattern on #Cardano's daily chart suggests a 30% move is brewing. The crypto giant is still operating in a lower-high, lower-low pattern as it trades at $0.61. A breakout above the triangle's upper boundary could propel #ADA to $0.82.”

However, despite these bullish projections, on-chain data reveals a bearish trend. Recently, Ali Martinez reported that whales dumped 180 million ADA within five days, indicating a lack of long-term conviction from major holders.

These sales occurred even as Cadano price rose nearly 10% from earlier lows, reflecting a strategic exit by some whales.

The on-chain chart showed decreasing whale balances during ADA’s recent bounce, which commonly signals distribution.

Such large transactions can suppress bullish momentum, especially in low-liquidity conditions. Historically, whale exits precede price corrections, creating headwinds for further gains.

If whale sell pressure continues, ADA price may struggle to attract enough retail volume to break resistance.

This dynamic complicates the bullish setup, especially with ADA still operating below key technical levels.

For the top altcoin price to maintain an upward trajectory, both whale sentiment and spot volume must improve.