Standard Chartered Predicts 2026 Will Be the Year of Ethereum Amid ETH Outperformance

Standard Chartered has expressed a bullish outlook for Ethereum, forecasting the asset will outperform its crypto peers in 2026. Geoffrey Kendrick, the bank's Global Head of Digital Assets Research, stated that Ethereum's structural advantages should allow it to surpass other cryptocurrencies, despite cutting some near-term price targets.

The bank now sees ether ending 2026 at $7,500, with further increases expected in the following years. By 2027 and 2028, Standard Chartered projects the price to reach $15,000 and $22,000, respectively. Longer-term, it has raised its 2029 forecast to $30,000 and introduced a $40,000 target for 2030.

Ethereum's stronger position relative to Bitcoin stems from its dominance in stablecoins, real-world assets, and decentralized finance. The bank also highlighted Ethereum's structural benefits, such as ongoing network scaling efforts and growing institutional adoption. Transaction volumes on the network have reached all-time highs, driven by stablecoin activity.

Why Did This Happen?

Standard Chartered's outlook is based on Ethereum's improving fundamentals and network upgrades. The Fusaka upgrade in December 2025, for example, is seen as a critical step in scaling the network, with higher throughput expected to translate into greater market capitalization.

Institutional adoption is also playing a role. Bitmine Immersion, the largest Ethereum-focused digital asset treasury company, now holds about 3.4% of ether in circulation and is on track to reach its 5% target. This ongoing institutional buying reinforces Ethereum's bullish case.

How Did Markets React?

Ethereum's market capitalization has grown significantly. It recently surpassed $390 billion, outpacing major traditional assets like Netflix. This milestone reflects Ethereum's growing influence in both crypto and traditional finance.

Market participants have also responded to the regulatory environment. The proposed U.S. Clarity Act, expected to pass in the first quarter, could provide further support for Ethereum and the broader crypto market. Standard Chartered noted that a favorable regulatory climate, combined with resilient equity markets, could help Ethereum achieve its long-term price targets.

What Are Analysts Watching Next?

Analysts are closely monitoring Ethereum's relative performance against Bitcoin. Standard Chartered expects the ETH-BTC ratio to gradually return to levels seen in 2021, around 0.08. This would indicate Ethereum's growing share of the crypto market as its structural advantages become more apparent.

Another key watchpoint is the regulatory landscape in the U.S. The proposed crypto market structure legislation could provide clarity and support for tokenized assets and stablecoins. Progress on this bill, particularly through the Senate Banking Committee, is seen as a potential catalyst for Ethereum's growth.

Institutional activity remains a focus for investors. Bitmine Immersion's recent acquisition of 24,266 ETH and its increased cash position demonstrate continued confidence in Ethereum. The company also plans to expand its staking operations as it moves toward becoming the largest staking provider in the crypto ecosystem.

Overall, Standard Chartered and other market participants see 2026 as a pivotal year for Ethereum. With strong fundamentals, regulatory progress, and institutional backing, the asset appears well-positioned to outperform its peers and drive broader crypto adoption.