Fidelity Boosts Ethereum as Institutions Eye Crypto

Fidelity’s recent $13.8 million purchase of Ethereum has driven a significant price surge and higher trading volumes, signaling increased institutional confidence in ETH. This move is part of a broader trend of traditional financial institutions adopting cryptocurrencies, with Ethereum’s use cases expanding beyond a store of value to blockchain payments and tokenized equities. Platforms like Robinhood are exploring tokenized equity offerings on Ethereum, according to Bernstein analysts. On May 16, 2025, Bitcoin ETF flows showed mixed signals, with one report noting zero net inflow into Grayscale Bitcoin Trust (GBTC) while another cited a $4.6 million inflow, reflecting uncertainty among institutional investors. Ethereum co-founder Anthony Di Iorio reiterated at Consensus 2025 that Ethereum was designed as an alternative—not a competitor—to Bitcoin, but said he believes it could eventually surpass Bitcoin in market capitalization. These events highlight the maturing crypto market, with both Bitcoin and Ethereum remaining central to institutional and retail investment strategies.