Ethereum Outpaces Bitcoin on Institutional Demand Surge

Ethereum (ETH) has climbed above $3,400, outperforming Bitcoin in recent weeks amid rising institutional demand and broader market risk appetite. Major acquisitions by corporate treasuries, including SharpLink Gaming and Bitmine Immersion Technologies—supported by investors like Peter Thiel—highlight growing adoption of Ethereum treasury strategies. The total value locked in Ethereum protocols and staking demand have reached new highs, with nearly 30% of circulating ETH now staked, contributing to deflationary pressure. Ethereum-linked funds and ETFs have seen inflows of nearly $1 billion in the past week, growing 19.5% over 12 weeks and outpacing Bitcoin funds. Anticipation of the GENIUS Act, which could restrict yield-bearing stablecoins, and potential ETF staking approval are fueling bullish forecasts, with some analysts projecting ETH could reach $10,000 this cycle. However, regulatory uncertainties in the US and EU remain a significant risk to sustained growth.