Onchain investigator ZachXBT has accused BitMEX co-founder Arthur Hayes of promoting tokens to his followers and then selling shortly afterward, alleging the most recent instance involved Worldcoin’s WLD token. The claims describe a roughly 15-day span in which Hayes purportedly exited four positions he had publicly discussed. The allegations have not been independently verified.
Allegations of ‘Exit Liquidity’
ZachXBT, a pseudonymous blockchain analyst known for tracing wallet activity, said Hayes used his audience as “exit liquidity” — a term used in markets when later buyers effectively provide an opportunity for earlier holders to sell at higher prices. According to the investigator, Hayes publicly highlighted several tokens and then sold them soon after, with WLD cited as the latest example.
While promoting or discussing assets is common among high-profile market participants, doing so immediately before selling can draw criticism if audiences are not aware of timing or intent. ZachXBT said onchain activity supports his claims, though specific wallets and transaction details were not provided in the raw materials reviewed for this report.
Who’s Involved
Arthur Hayes is a co-founder and former CEO of crypto derivatives exchange BitMEX and is widely followed for his market commentary. Worldcoin (WLD) is the native token of Worldcoin, a digital identity and crypto project co-founded by Sam Altman. ZachXBT is a widely followed onchain investigator who publishes analyses of blockchain transactions tied to influencers, projects, and exploits.
Why It Matters
Influential figures with large audiences can affect liquidity and short-term price dynamics when they discuss or trade specific tokens. The episode highlights ongoing scrutiny around promotional activity in crypto markets, where transparency about positions and timing remains a sensitive issue. As of publication, the allegations remain unconfirmed by independent analysis, and no public response from Hayes was included in the materials reviewed.