Ethereum News Today: Ethereum Staking Surge and Regulatory Clarity Drive 163% Price Rally

Ethereum’s network activity has surged to an all-time high, with daily transactions averaging 1.74 million in the past seven days—exceeding the previous record of 1.65 million set in May 2021. The increase coincided with a sharp rise in staking activity and evolving regulatory developments that have bolstered institutional interest in the asset [1]. Over 36 million ETH is now locked in staking contracts, accounting for nearly 30% of the total supply, signaling a significant reduction in market liquidity [1].

A key catalyst for this momentum was recent guidance from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The agency clarified that certain liquid staking activities and "staking receipt tokens" do not constitute securities under the 1933 Securities Act, provided specific regulatory conditions are met. This guidance has reduced legal uncertainty for institutions and platforms offering staking products, encouraging greater participation from institutional investors [1].

The regulatory shift has had a tangible impact on supply dynamics. As more ETH is locked in staking contracts, the available circulating supply declines, potentially reducing downward price pressure. Dune Analytics data shows that over 500,000 ETH—approximately $1.8 billion—was staked in the first half of June alone, reinforcing the trend of rising confidence in the asset [1]. Meanwhile, corporate adoption has also played a role in reshaping Ethereum’s market structure.

Public companies classified as "crypto treasury companies" have significantly expanded their Ethereum holdings. These firms either purchase ETH directly or acquire it through investment vehicles. Current corporate ETH holdings total $11.77 billion across various entities. BitMine Immersion Technologies holds the largest position at 833,100 ETH, valued at $3.2 billion. SharpLink Gaming and The Ether Machine also hold substantial amounts, valued at $2 billion and $1.34 billion respectively [1].

Vitalik Buterin, co-founder of Ethereum, has publicly endorsed the trend of corporate treasuries holding digital assets. In a recent Bankless podcast, he highlighted the benefits of such strategies, noting that they provide investors with more options. However, he also warned of the risks associated with excessive leverage in these arrangements, cautioning that overleveraging could lead to cascading forced liquidations and deeper price corrections [1].

Ethereum’s price has surged 163% since the April low of $1,470, reaching nearly $3,909 in recent trading. This sharp rally has narrowed the performance gap between ETH and other major cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Solana. The upward trajectory has been supported by both increased staking and corporate accumulation, which have effectively removed substantial amounts of ETH from active trading circulation [1].

Ethereum’s growing transaction volumes and rising staking levels reflect a broader shift in the digital asset landscape. With regulatory clarity, institutional participation, and corporate adoption converging, the network’s role in the global financial system is expanding. The evolving dynamics of supply and demand are reshaping Ethereum’s market fundamentals, reinforcing its position as a key player in the crypto ecosystem.

Source: [1] Ethereum Transactions Reach Record 1.74 Million as Staking Surge Drives 163% Price Rally (https://coinmarketcap.com/community/articles/6895b457c5423f2327b829e5/)