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Bad Decisions By Ethereum Foundation Hurt ETH Price: CIO

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Este artículo también está disponible en español.

Zaheer Ebtikar, the Chief Investment Officer (CIO) and founder of Split Capital—a hedge fund specializing in liquid token investments—has attributed the Ethereum underperformance over the last months to strategic missteps by the Ethereum Foundation and structural shifts in crypto capital flows. In an analysis shared via X (formerly Twitter), Ebtikar writes, “Independent of the myriad of (probable) bad decisions that the ETH foundation & co have made there’s another structural reason why ETH has traded like a dog this cycle.”

Why Is The Ethereum Price Lagging Behind?

Ebtikar began by emphasizing the importance of understanding capital flows within the crypto market. He identified three primary sources of capital flow: retail investors who engage directly through platforms like Coinbase, Binance, and Bybit; private capital from liquid and venture funds; and institutional investors who invest directly through Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) and futures. However, he noted that retail investors are “hardest to quantify” and are “not fully present in the market today,” thus excluding them from his analysis.

Focusing on private capital, Ebtikar highlighted that in 2021, this segment was the largest capital base, driven by crypto euphoria that attracted more than $20 billion in net new inflows. “Fast forward to today, private capital is no longer the heavy hitter capital base as ETFs and other traditional vehicles have taken the role of the largest net new buyer of crypto,” he stated. He attributed this decline to a series of poor venture investments and overhang from prior cycles, which have “left a bad taste in the mouths of LPs.”

These venture firms and liquid funds recognized that they couldn’t wait out another cycle and needed to be more proactive. They began taking more “shots on target” for liquid plays, often through private deals involving locked tokens such as Solana (SOL), Celestia (TIA), and Toncoin (TON). “These locked deals also represented something more interesting for a lot of firms—there’s a world outside of Ethereum-based investing that is actually growing and usable and has enough market cap growth relative to ETH that could justify the underwriting of the investment,” Ebtikar explained.

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He noted that investors were aware it would be increasingly difficult to raise funds for venture and liquid investments. Without the return of retail capital, institutional products became the only viable avenue for a bid for ETH. Mindshare began fragmenting as the three-year mark of the 2021 vintage approached, and products like BlackRock’s spot Bitcoin ETF (IBIT) gained legitimacy as the de facto benchmark for crypto. Private capital had to make a choice: “Abandon their core portfolio hold in ETH and move down the risk curve or hold your breath for traditional players to start bailing you out.”

This led to the formation of two camps. The first consisted of pre-ETF ETH sellers between January and May 2024, who opted out of ETH and swapped to assets like SOL. The second group, post-ETF ETH sellers from June to September 2024, realized that ETF flows into ETH were lackluster and that it would take much more for ETH’s price to gain support. “They understood that the ETF flows were lackluster and it would take a lot more for ETH price to begin being supportive,” Ebtikar noted.

Turning his attention to institutional capital, Ebtikar observed that when spot Bitcoin ETFs like IBIT, FBTC, ARKB, and BITW entered the market, they exceeded expectations. “These products broke any realistic target investors and experts could’ve fathomed with their success,” he stated. He emphasized that Bitcoin ETFs have become some of the most successful ETF products in history. “BTC went from being a dog in the average portfolio to now the only funnel for net new capital in crypto and at a record rate too,” he said.

Despite Bitcoin’s surge, the rest of the market didn’t keep up. Ebtikar questioned why this was the case, pointing out that crypto-native investors, retail, and private capital had long since reduced their Bitcoin holdings. Instead, they were “stuck in altcoins and Ethereum as the core of their portfolio.” Consequently, when Bitcoin received its institutional bid, few in the crypto space benefited from the new wealth effect. “Few in crypto were beneficiaries of the newly made wealth effect,” he remarked.

Investors began to reassess their portfolios, struggling to decide their next moves. Historically, crypto capital would cycle from index assets like Bitcoin to Ethereum and then down the risk curve to altcoins. However, traders speculated on potential flows into Ethereum and similar assets but were “broadly wrong.” The market started to diverge, and the dispersion between asset returns intensified. Professional crypto investors and traders moved aggressively down the risk curve, and funds followed suit to generate returns.

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The asset they chose to reduce exposure to was Ethereum—the largest asset in their core portfolios. “Slowly but surely ETH started losing steam to SOL and similar, and a non-trivial percentage of this flow started really moving downstream to memecoins,” Ebtikar observed. “ETH lost its moat in crypto-savvy investors, the only group of investors who were historically interested in buying.”

Even with the introduction of spot ETH ETFs, institutional capital paid little attention to Ethereum. Ebtikar described Ethereum’s predicament as suffering from “middle-child syndrome.” He elaborated, “The asset is not in vogue with institutional investors, the asset lost favor in crypto private capital circles, and retail is nowhere to be seen bidding anything at this size.” He emphasized that Ethereum is too large for native capital to support while other index assets like SOL and large caps like TIA, TAO, and SUI are capturing investor attention.

According to Ebtikar, the only way forward is to expand the universe of potentially interested investors, which can only happen at the institutional level. “ETH’s best odds of making a material comeback (short of changes to the core protocol’s trajectory) is to have institutional investors pick up the asset in the coming months,” he suggested. He acknowledged that while Ethereum faces significant challenges, it is “the only other asset with an ETF and likely will be for some time.” This unique position offers a potential avenue for recovery.

Ebtikar mentioned several factors that could influence Ethereum’s future trajectory. He cited the possibility of a Trump presidency, which could bring changes to regulatory frameworks affecting cryptocurrency. He also pointed to potential shifts in the Ethereum Foundation’s direction and core focus, suggesting that strategic changes could reinvigorate investor interest. Additionally, he highlighted the importance of marketing the ETH ETF by traditional asset managers to attract institutional capital.

“Considering the possibility of a Trump Presidency, change at the Ethereum Foundation’s direction and core focus, and marketing of the ETH ETF by traditional asset managers, there are quite a few outs for the father of smart contracting platforms,” Ebtikar remarked. He expressed cautious optimism, stating that not all hope is lost for Ethereum.

Looking ahead to 2025, Ebtikar believes it will be a critical year for cryptocurrency and especially for Ethereum. “2025 will very much be an interesting year for crypto and especially for Ethereum as so much of the damage from 2024 can be unwound or further deepened,” he concluded. “Time will tell.”

At press time, ETH traded at $2,534.

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ETH price, 1-week chart | Source: ETHUSDT on TradingView.com

Featured image created with DALL.E, chart from TradingView.com



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Ethereum Enters Historic Buy Zone As Price Dips Below Key Level – Insights

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Este artículo también está disponible en español.

Ethereum is currently trading at a critical resistance level as bulls attempt to regain momentum and push for a fresh high. The broader market remains under pressure as global uncertainty escalates, largely fueled by ongoing trade tensions between the United States and China. Last week, US President Donald Trump announced a 90-day tariff pause on all countries except China, intensifying concerns about an extended trade conflict that could destabilize global financial markets.

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In this high-stakes environment, Ethereum’s price action is drawing close attention from investors and analysts. Top crypto analyst Ali Martinez shared that historically, the best Ethereum buying opportunities have emerged when the price drops below the lower MVRV (Market Value to Realized Value) Price Band—a level that signals potential undervaluation. Notably, ETH is now trading precisely in that zone.

This alignment between technical conditions and macroeconomic instability suggests that Ethereum could be entering a phase of accumulation, with long-term investors looking to capitalize on discounted prices. However, sustained upward momentum will depend on whether bulls can overcome immediate resistance and whether macro conditions improve. The coming days could prove pivotal for ETH as it tests both technical and psychological thresholds.

Ethereum Dips Into Historical Opportunity Zone

Ethereum is currently trading below key resistance levels after enduring several weeks of selling pressure and weak market performance. Since losing the crucial $2,000 support level, ETH has fallen roughly 21%, a clear indication that bulls have yet to regain control. Broader macroeconomic pressures, especially rising global tensions and uncertain trade conditions between the US and China, have further dampened market sentiment. These conditions have driven many investors to exit riskier assets like cryptocurrencies, leading to elevated volatility and reduced market participation.

Despite this downtrend, some analysts believe Ethereum could be nearing a pivotal turnaround zone. According to Martinez, one of the best historical signals for Ethereum accumulation has been price action dipping below the lower bound of the MVRV Price Band—a metric that compares market value to realized value to assess whether an asset is over- or undervalued. Currently, Ethereum is trading beneath that lower band.

Ethereum MVRV pricing bands | Source: Ali Martinez on X
Ethereum MVRV pricing bands | Source: Ali Martinez on X

Martinez emphasizes that this positioning has typically preceded strong upside reversals, especially during periods of extreme market pessimism. While short-term volatility may persist, ETH’s entry into this zone could present a rare opportunity for long-term investors to accumulate at historically discounted levels—if market conditions stabilize and sentiment shifts.

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ETH Stalls In Tight Range

Ethereum is currently trading at $1,610 after nearly a week of low volatility and sideways action. Since last Tuesday, ETH has remained locked in a tight range between $1,550 and $1,630, reflecting the market’s uncertainty and hesitation to take a clear directional stance. This narrow trading zone highlights a period of price compression, often a precursor to a larger move in either direction.

ETH trading in a narrow range | Source: ETHUSDT chart on TradingView
ETH trading in a narrow range | Source: ETHUSDT chart on TradingView

For bulls to regain momentum and shift sentiment, Ethereum must reclaim the $1,700 level and push decisively above the $2,000 mark. These levels not only serve as key psychological barriers but also represent critical zones of previous support that have now turned into resistance. A breakout above $2,000 would likely trigger renewed buying interest and set the stage for a potential recovery rally.

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However, if bearish pressure builds and the $1,550 floor is breached, Ethereum could quickly test the $1,500 support zone. A breakdown below that level would confirm further downside risk, potentially accelerating sell-offs and deepening the current correction. Until a breakout or breakdown occurs, traders should prepare for more consolidation and volatility as the market awaits a macro or technical catalyst.

Featured image from Dall-E, chart from TradingView 



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Ethereum Consolidates In Symmetrical Triangle: Expert Predicts 17% Price Move

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Ethereum has staged an impressive comeback, surging 21% from its $1,380 low to current levels following a week of intense selling pressure. The rally began last Wednesday, triggered by a major geopolitical development: US President Donald Trump announced a 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs for all countries except China, which now faces a steep 145% tariff. The announcement injected a wave of optimism across global markets, with Ethereum among the top beneficiaries.

Related Reading: Bitcoin Whales Haven’t Made Their Exit Yet – Is The Bull Cycle Still Intact?

Despite this bullish recovery, ETH remains below critical resistance levels, and the broader price structure continues to form a consolidation pattern. The market now awaits confirmation of whether this rebound will evolve into a full reversal or simply a relief rally amid continued macroeconomic uncertainty.

Crypto analyst Ali Martinez shared a technical chart on X, highlighting that Ethereum is currently consolidating within a symmetrical triangle on the hourly chart. According to Martinez, this pattern typically signals an imminent breakout, and if ETH breaks upward, it could trigger a 17% move to the upside.

As traders and investors watch closely, Ethereum’s next directional move will likely depend on both technical confirmations and broader sentiment around US-China trade tensions and their impact on risk assets.

Ethereum Faces Critical Resistance Amid Macroeconomic Uncertainty

Ethereum is trading at a pivotal resistance level that could determine the next major move in the market. After rebounding 21% from its $1,380 low, ETH now sits just below key levels that, if reclaimed, could spark a broader recovery rally. Despite this strong bounce, macroeconomic tensions remain in focus, with ongoing uncertainty around US tariffs and foreign policy—especially the 145% tariff on China—keeping investors cautious.

The crypto market, like equities, continues to be shaped by global developments. While some analysts believe Ethereum has already priced in the worst of the downturn, others argue that the recent rally is only a temporary relief within the early stages of a broader bear market. The debate reflects the current state of sentiment: mixed and driven more by short-term reactions than long-term conviction.

However, from a technical standpoint, Ethereum may be setting up for a decisive move. According to Martinez, ETH is currently consolidating within a symmetrical triangle on the hourly chart. This pattern often precedes a breakout, and Martinez suggests that a 17% move could follow. If Ethereum breaks to the upside, it could push the price back toward the $2,000 level—a psychological and technical milestone for the asset.

Ethereum testing critical resistance | Source: Ali Martinez on X
Ethereum testing critical resistance | Source: Ali Martinez on X

For now, all eyes are on whether bulls can maintain momentum and breach the upper trendline of the triangle. A strong breakout could signal a shift in the broader market narrative, transforming current consolidation into the foundation for a sustained rally. Still, given the unstable macro environment, traders remain cautious, watching for confirmation before fully committing to a bullish thesis.

ETH Bulls Face Key Resistance Ahead

Ethereum is trading at $1,670 after briefly setting a fresh 4-hour high around $1,691—slightly above the previous peak. This minor breakout signals that bullish momentum is building, but it remains fragile. To confirm a full reversal and begin a true recovery rally, ETH must reclaim the $1,875 level, which aligns with both the 4-hour 200-day moving average (MA) and the exponential moving average (EMA).

ETH testing 4-hour resistance | Source: ETHUSDT chart on TradingView
ETH testing 4-hour resistance | Source: ETHUSDT chart on TradingView

These indicators have acted as strong dynamic resistance throughout Ethereum’s recent downtrend, and only a decisive break above them would validate bullish control and potentially trigger a surge back toward the $2,000 level. A move past $1,875 would also indicate a shift in short-term market structure, giving bulls the confidence needed to drive higher highs.

However, if Ethereum fails to push through this critical resistance zone, the asset risks returning to lower demand levels. A rejection at these moving averages could send ETH back to $1,500 or even lower, especially if broader market sentiment deteriorates. With macroeconomic uncertainty and tariff-related volatility still looming, bulls need to act fast—or risk losing the progress made during this recovery attempt. For now, all eyes are on the $1,875 threshold.

Featured image from Dall-E, chart from TradingView 

Editorial Process for bitcoinist is centered on delivering thoroughly researched, accurate, and unbiased content. We uphold strict sourcing standards, and each page undergoes diligent review by our team of top technology experts and seasoned editors. This process ensures the integrity, relevance, and value of our content for our readers.



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Ethereum Accumulators At A Crucial Moment: ETH Realized Price Tests Make-Or-Break Point

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Compared to other major crypto assets in the market, Ethereum’s price performance is still lagging, and it has been unable to make any significant upward move in months. Given the prolonged waning price performance, on-chain data shows that a substantial portion of ETH investors are currently in the red.

ETH Realized Price Nears Breaking Point

FundingVest, an on-chain data analyst and verified author, revealed that Ethereum’s market dynamics have reached a decisive moment. In the post on the X (formerly Twitter) platform, FundingVest highlighted that ETH’s accumulation addresses are now at a pivotal juncture as the altcoin’s realized price teeters on a critical make-or-break level.

After navigating the ETH Realized Price For Accumulation Addresses metric, it appears that the asset has broken below the cost basis of accumulation wallet addresses. This make-or-break moment is likely to determine whether Ethereum experiences more selling pressure that would shake the network’s faith or regain its upward momentum.

Presently, ETH is trending under the realized price of long-term holders, a crucial level that usually serves as solid support for the altcoin in bullish cycles. One thing is certain: When the price falls below the long-term holders’ realized price, caution is advised, as this development might lead to significant losses in the future. Meanwhile, a quick reclaim above this level hints at a potential bullish reversal in price.

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ETH falls below the cost basis of accumulation wallet addresses | Source: FundingVest on X

According to the expert, this indicates mounting strain on wallets that amassed significant wealth between the 2020 and 2021 market cycles. Dips below the long-term holders’ realized price are uncommon and frequently brief in the past. 

However, persistent weakness in the zone can point to a more significant change in the market. With ETH’s current market price dropping below the average cost basis of these accumulators, this raises questions about its sustainability and prospects. 

ETH Supply In Profit Drops Below Levels Of Past Bear Market

ETH continues to face bearish pressure, limiting its potential for a major price rally. This persistent downward movement led to a historic low in the percentage of Ethereum supply in profit, indicating a weak market sentiment.

Crypto analyst and trader Venturefounder reported that the ETH percentage supply in profit has fallen to 40%. According to the expert, this level is lower than the last bear market cycle bottom, around 42% when the altcoin was trading at the $800 mark.

Considering the sharp drop, Venturefounder claims it is already a clear signal to deploy. Although the drop in supply profit calls for alarm, there is still a positive side to the development, especially if it falls to about 30%. Should it ever reach 30%, which is the green zone on the chart, the expert noted that it will create generational buy opportunities for investors.

Venturefounder also revealed in another post that the ETH Realized Price Multiple has declined to its last cycle bottom level. The expert considers this drop another on-chain buy signal for the altcoin.

Ethereum
ETH trading at $1,591 on the 1D chart | Source: ETHUSDT on Tradingview.com

Featured image from Pixabay, chart from Tradingview.com

Editorial Process for bitcoinist is centered on delivering thoroughly researched, accurate, and unbiased content. We uphold strict sourcing standards, and each page undergoes diligent review by our team of top technology experts and seasoned editors. This process ensures the integrity, relevance, and value of our content for our readers.



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