Ethereum News Today: Ethereum Stuck in $3,350-$3,850 Range as Taker Buy/Sell Ratio Hits 0.87

Ethereum’s price has continued to consolidate within a defined range as the taker buy/sell ratio reached one of its lowest levels of the year on July 26, falling to 0.87 according to top analyst Darkfost. This metric, which measures the relative strength of buyers versus sellers in futures trading, indicates a shift in momentum, with sellers now dominating order books and actively suppressing price action [1]. The decline marks a continuation of a trend that has been developing since July 18, during which the ratio has remained largely negative, reflecting ongoing bearish sentiment in the short term.

The recent pullback from a local high of $3,940 to $3,360 has intensified concerns among traders that Ethereum could face a deeper correction if key support levels fail to hold. The current trading range between $3,350 and $3,850 has persisted for several weeks, with Ethereum struggling to break through the $3,860.80 resistance level—a critical psychological barrier that has repeatedly rejected upward attempts [1]. On the 4-hour chart, the asset has attempted to stabilize near the 50-period SMA at $3,668.28, but sustained selling pressure continues to limit the effectiveness of these rebounds.

The taker buy/sell ratio, currently at 0.87, is one of the most bearish readings this year and highlights the fragility of the current market structure. A ratio below 1 typically signals that selling volume is outpacing buying volume, which can lead to prolonged periods of sideways or downward movement until a clear directional bias emerges [1]. Analysts caution that while this level of consolidation is a normal part of market cycles—particularly after a significant rally—failure to reclaim critical support zones could trigger further downside risk in the near term.

Market behavior is also being influenced by broader crypto trends, with Bitcoin showing signs of hesitation among institutional investors. For example, treasuries have accumulated 630 BTC while ETFs have reduced their exposure by $300 million, reflecting a broader reluctance to commit to directional trades [4]. This uncertainty may be contributing to the cautious approach seen in Ethereum markets, where traders are either locking in profits or avoiding new positions ahead of clearer signals.

Despite the current bearish pressure, some analysts suggest that a healthy consolidation phase can serve as a foundation for the next upward move. If Ethereum manages to stabilize above key support levels and demonstrates renewed buying interest, the long-term trend—supported by on-chain accumulation and growing institutional adoption—could still favor higher prices [1]. However, until a decisive breakout above $3,860.80 occurs, or a breakdown below $3,600 is confirmed, the market is expected to remain in a state of balance, with traders watching closely for signs of a reversal or continued range-bound trading.

Source: [1] Ethereum Consolidation Deepens As Taker Buy/Sell Ratio ... (https://www.mitrade.com/insights/news/live-news/article-3-1014122-20250806)

[4] BTCUSD - Bitcoin treasuries add 630 BTC while ETFs shed ... (https://mx.advfn.com/bolsa-de-valores/COIN/BTCUSD/crypto-news/96562540/bitcoin-treasuries-add-630-btc-while-etfs-shed-30)

[5] Contents - Bloomberg News (https://www.advisorperspectives.com/firm/bloomberg-news)