$773M Crypto Liquidations Hit Shorts on April 18

Crypto markets experienced a significant liquidation event on April 18, 2026, with $773 million in positions wiped out over a 24-hour period, according to Cointelegraph. Short traders accounted for approximately 77% of total losses, signaling a sharp reversal in market momentum against bearish positioning.

Liquidation Data and Market Movement

The liquidation wave was concentrated among short positions, suggesting that traders positioned for downside faced forced closures as prices moved upward. According to Cointelegraph’s report, the scale of short liquidations indicates heavy bearish positioning prior to the price movement.

Role of Leverage in Crypto Liquidations

Leverage amplifies both gains and losses in crypto trading. When leveraged positions move against traders, exchanges automatically liquidate positions to prevent negative balances. High leverage levels can intensify losses during sharp price movements, as traders may be unable to add margin quickly enough to maintain positions.

In this liquidation event, the rapid price movement combined with leveraged positioning created conditions for the large-scale wipeout reported by Cointelegraph.

FAQ

What caused the $773M in crypto liquidations on April 18?

According to Cointelegraph, the liquidations resulted from a sharp upward price movement that caught short traders off guard. The exact price movement and duration were not specified in the report.

Why were short traders disproportionately affected?

Short positions face immediate pressure when prices rise. As prices moved upward on April 18, short traders faced automatic liquidation if they could not quickly add margin to maintain positions. Cointelegraph reported that shorts accounted for 77% of the $773M in total liquidations.

How do crypto liquidations work?

In leveraged trading, exchanges automatically close positions when losses approach the trader’s margin deposit. This protects the exchange but results in immediate loss for the trader. The liquidation process can accelerate during periods of rapid price movement.