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Is this a setup by mega banks to collect funds?

Major Banks' Alleged Strategy Sparks Fears | Retail Investors on Edge

By

Ethan Brown

Feb 6, 2026, 10:23 AM

Updated

Feb 7, 2026, 06:33 AM

2 minutes estimated to read

A group of people looking concerned while holding money, with bank buildings in the background to symbolize major banks' influence.

A growing faction of people involved in cryptocurrency is raising alarms over potential tactics by major banks to sideline retail investors. Speculation is rife that these institutions are preparing to take advantage once retail exits the market.

Retail Community Voices Concerns

Commenters on various forums expressed skepticism about cryptocurrencies, with some calling them "useless zeros and ones." One user starkly noted, "No one really wants them unless they can make them rich." This underscores the increasing doubt among retail investors about the actual value of their holdings.

Market Sentiment and Strategies

Participants are worried about an impending sell-off of crypto assets. One user pointed out, "I think people are just dumping; retail is the majority of bag holders." Another recent comment suggested that observers believe the market may be manipulated to flush out retail investors before major institutions buy in. "Every time," noted one commenter, signifying a pattern they perceive in market behavior.

Interestingly, a few comments hinted at the possibility of price recoveries, with one individual optimistically forecasting a Bitcoin rebound, albeit with a predicted drop to $30,000 beforehand.

While some believe wealthy investors foresee a future bounce-back to $200,000, others argued that once retail panic sets in, banks would swiftly swoop in to hoover up assets at lower prices.

"Def is a plan… Rich people know it’ll be back, so they can get it as cheap as possible. Poor people get scared and sell," commented a user.

Trust Issues with Traditional Banking

Discontent mounted regarding traditional bank practices, as some accused these institutions of manipulating the market for their own gain. Comments like "Banks make more money printing it out of thin air" reflect a strong distrust in conventional financial systems. With shifting monetary policies, there's a growing unease about how this will impact cryptocurrency valuations.

Key Themes Emerging from Discussions

  • β–³ Many believe major banks want to eliminate retail investors from crypto.

  • β–½ Rising speculation about retail investors dumping assets.

  • βœ“ "This is not a setup, it is what they always wanted to hide," says one commenter.

As the crypto world braces for significant shifts, retail investors are facing a crucial moment in this evolving marketplace. With up to 60% estimated to potentially liquidate their holdings, banks might ramp up strategies to consolidate influence. This situation will likely prompt closer scrutiny from regulators regarding the relationship between traditional finance and cryptocurrencies.

A Historical Parallel

The current climate in the cryptocurrency market shares similarities with the Gold Rush of the mid-1800s. Just as smaller miners faced pressure from larger operations, retail crypto investors seem poised to be edged out by well-resourced competitors. Many historical stories reflect how individual aspirations can be crushed by more significant financial forces, a recurring narrative that today's investors know all too well.