Ethereum on the Rise: Staking Milestones and Bullish Targets Beyond $5,000

With over 35.6 million ETH—about 29.4% of the total supply—locked in staking contracts, Ethereum is experiencing severe supply restrictions because of its high level of staking activity. From under 5% wagered in early 2021, this is a remarkable rise that has dramatically lowered exchange-held ETH balances from 32 million to 17 million over the previous five years. Although staking has helped to balance the circulating supply and fuel price increase, Ethereum is currently experiencing its highest validator exit queue ever, with over 910,000 ETH worth $4 billion, awaiting withdrawal as of August 2025. Driven by profit-taking and consolidations of little nodes, this wave of exits highlights changing dynamics inside the staking ecosystem.

Ethereum is still economically resilient despite these obstacles. Annualized staking returns have fallen to 4.5%, therefore increasing worry about validator exits as rewards decline despite an annual inflation of only 0.3%. With corporate treasuries and ETFs taking almost 2.2 million ETH (1.8% of supply) in only two months, institutional players are still gathering ETH at unheard-of rates. Institutional activity has been further fueled by spot Ethereum ETFs, bullish price swings, and legal clarity, hence strengthening Ether's role as a scarce and valued asset in the crypto sector.

ETHUSD gained more than $500 the previous week after forming a minor bottom around $4205. It hit a high of $4768 and is currently trading around $4601. Overall trend remains bullish as long as support $3500 remains intact. Watch out for $5000, any break above targets $5428/$6000. 

Immediate support is around $4500. Any violation below will drag the price down to $4200/$4000/$3700/$3550/$3500/$3380/$3200/$3000. A breach below $3000 could see Ethereum plummet to $2770/$2500.

It is good to buy on dips around $4300 with SL around $4000 for a TP of $5000/$6000.