FameEX Hot Topics | Ethereum Builds $7.5B Base, Analysts Eye $6,500 Price by Year-End

Ethereum remains capped below the $5,000 threshold, but underlying accumulation and unprecedented institutional flows are creating conditions for a potential rally toward $6,800 by the end of the year. Despite its sideways performance this month, with prices ranging between $4,200 and $4,500, the broader market structure suggests Ethereum is quietly building strength beneath the surface.

On-chain data from CryptoQuant shows that approximately 1.7 million ETH—valued around $7.5 billion—has been absorbed into accumulation addresses in the $4,300–$4,400 range. This level has become a significant zone of interest, with substantial withdrawals from centralized exchanges establishing an average cost basis near $4,300. Such concentrated buying interest often forms a critical support zone, giving Ethereum resilience if prices revisit these levels. 

Institutional demand is also reshaping Ethereum’s outlook. Open interest on the CME has reached record highs, driven largely by short-term maturities of one to three months. This increase raises the potential for volatility around contract expirations but also underscores heightened institutional involvement. Notably, longer-dated contracts of three to six months are also expanding, suggesting that sophisticated investors are positioning for sustained upside in Ethereum’s market through the remainder of the year.

Crypto analyst Pelin Ay emphasized that the combination of heavy accumulation and robust derivatives activity points to further gains. While liquidation risks remain elevated due to aggressive leverage in futures markets, Pelin maintains that the broader bullish trend is intact. She projected that Ethereum could test the $6,800 resistance zone by year-end, supported by institutional flows and investor confidence. From a technical perspective, Ethereum’s inability to break past $4,500 reflects short-term indecision. Yet a decisive move above $4,500 could quickly reestablish momentum in Ethereum’s favor.

Still, risks remain on the downside. Key support sits at $4,200, with a strong demand block between $4,000 and $4,100 providing additional cushioning. A liquidity sweep toward these levels cannot be ruled out before Ethereum attempts a breakout. However, some traders remain strongly bullish. Merlijn, a veteran crypto trader, pointed out that Ethereum’s monthly MACD has just flipped green after three years of pressure, calling it a precursor to a parabolic move. “Clear $4,500,” he said, “and Ethereum goes parabolic.”

Disclaimer: The information provided in this section is for reference only and does not represent any investment advice or the official views of FameEX.