Best Crypto To Buy Now? Ethereum Alternatives Highlight Strategic Buy Opportunities

BitMine Immersion Technologies has resumed its purchases of Ether, acquiring $105 million worth of ETH in its first reported acquisitions of 2026 according to reports. The company now holds 4.07 million ETH, representing 3.36% of the total supply, according to StrategicEthReserve data. This move reinforces the company's strategic goal of owning 5% of the supply and signals long-term confidence in Ethereum's value proposition as noted.

Institutional staking activity has also increased, with over $2.87 billion worth of ETH staked. This growth aligns with the broader trend of Ethereum-based passive yield generation, as more investors and companies seek to benefit from staking rewards according to analysis. Despite this activity, some analysts, including Tom Lee of Fundstrat, warn of a potential drawdown in ETH prices to around $1,800 during the first half of 2026 as forecast.

Whale activity has also increased, with $11.2 million of ETH being accumulated over the past week. However, smart money traders have offloaded $9.48 million in the same period, suggesting a mixed market sentiment as observed. These movements highlight the growing influence of large holders and the potential for price volatility as more ETH is moved and staked according to data.

Why Did This Happen?

BitMine's continued ETH accumulation is part of a broader institutional trend toward crypto adoption. With $915 million in cash reserves remaining, the company has the liquidity to continue its strategy of acquiring ETH to reach its 5% supply target as reported. This approach is similar to other institutional players who are using a mix of cash and crypto to hedge against macroeconomic uncertainties while also capitalizing on staking yields according to industry analysis.

The staking activity has also been a significant driver of long-term confidence in Ethereum. The rise in staked ETH reflects the network's transition to a proof-of-stake model, which has improved security and reduced energy consumption according to reports. This shift has attracted more investors and companies seeking to participate in Ethereum's ecosystem while generating passive income as noted.

How Markets Responded

Despite the institutional optimism, Ethereum's near-term outlook remains cautious. Tom Lee, the chairman of BitMine and co-founder of Fundstrat, has predicted a potential drawdown in ETH prices to around $1,800 during the first half of 2026 according to his analysis. This projection is based on historical patterns and market volatility, as well as expectations of increased selling pressure from short-term traders as explained.

Whale activity has also been a mixed signal for the market. While large investors continue to add ETH to their holdings, smart money traders have been reducing their positions. This divergence suggests that while some market participants are bullish on Ethereum's long-term potential, others are hedging their positions or taking profits according to market data.

What Analysts Are Watching

Analysts are closely monitoring both institutional and retail dynamics in the Ethereum market. The continued staking activity and accumulation by large holders are seen as positive signs for Ethereum's long-term growth. However, near-term price weakness could create buying opportunities for investors who are willing to take on the risk of short-term volatility as observed.

In addition to Ethereum, analysts are also keeping an eye on alternative crypto projects. For example, APEMARS ($APRZ) has emerged as a high-risk, high-reward option for investors seeking early-stage exposure. The presale is currently in Stage 3, with a target ROI of 22,300% if the token reaches its expected listing price according to reports. This level of potential return is drawing attention from investors looking for significant upside, though it also comes with substantial risks as noted.

Market forecasts for Ethereum and other altcoins vary, but most analysts agree that the crypto market remains volatile. While Ethereum is expected to see growth over the next few years, the exact timing and magnitude of price movements will depend on a range of factors, including macroeconomic conditions, regulatory developments, and technological advancements according to industry analysis.

The broader crypto market is also benefiting from the continued expansion of ETF products. The approval of Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs has opened the door for institutional and retail investors to gain exposure to crypto without the need to directly hold the underlying assets according to market reports. This shift is expected to increase liquidity and drive further adoption as more investors become comfortable with crypto-based investment vehicles as indicated.

For now, the market remains in a state of flux, with institutional confidence in Ethereum and growing interest in alternative projects. As the year progresses, analysts will continue to monitor key indicators such as staking activity, whale movements, and ETF inflows to assess the trajectory of the crypto market.