Ethereum News Today: Yi Lihua's Trend Research Bolsts ETH Stake to $2.1B, Targets 2026 Bull Run

Yi Lihua's Trend Research has significantly increased its Ethereum holdings, acquiring 11,520 ETH, valued at approximately $34.93 million as of Dec. 29, 2025 according to reports. The move underscores the firm's continued commitment to Ethereum, aligning with Yi Lihua's public projection of a major bull market by 2026. His strategy, as outlined on X, involves buying the asset during price dips, a tactic he claims will capitalize on long-term gains despite short-term volatility.

Trend Research, an institution under Yi Lihua's Liquid Capital, is already among the largest Ethereum holders. Recent on-chain data indicates that Trend Research now holds about 645,000 ETH, or roughly $2.1 billion in value. This places the firm third in the Ethereum holdings ranking, behind Bitmine and SharpLink according to data.

If Yi Lihua fulfills his promise to invest an additional $1 billion in Ethereum, Trend Research could overtake SharpLink and become the second-largest ETH holder. Current data shows that the firm's average purchase price is $3,299.43, with a current unrealized loss of about $242 million. Despite this, Yi Lihua remains confident in the market's long-term trajectory.

Why the Standoff Happened

Yi Lihua's accumulation strategy has been methodical, with most purchases concentrated in November 2025, accounting for over 88% of Trend Research's recent additions. The firm has used at least seven major addresses to execute these transactions, signaling a coordinated effort to expand its Ethereum position. Analysts suggest the timing of the purchases was strategic, leveraging dips in the broader market to secure ETH at favorable prices.

According to Yi Lihua, the firm's research team plays a central role in guiding these decisions. His firm has been continuously purchasing ETH at lower prices throughout the year, a move he attributes to thorough daily research and market insights. Yi believes the market is nearing a bottom and that Ethereum is poised for a significant rebound by 2026.

What This Means for Investors

According to Yi Lihua's public statement, he has committed to a $10 billion investment in Ethereum over time, a plan that analysts believe could reshape the institutional landscape for the asset. If fully executed, this would not only increase Trend Research's stake but also potentially influence broader Ethereum market dynamics. The sheer scale of the investment could act as a stabilizing factor, especially during volatile market conditions.

For other investors, Yi Lihua's actions may serve as a signal of confidence. His public buying pattern has already drawn attention from the crypto community, with some viewing it as an indicator of Ethereum's underlying strength. However, the firm's unrealized losses highlight the risks involved in holding large positions during a bear market.

Risks to the Outlook

While Yi Lihua remains bullish on Ethereum, the current market environment presents challenges. Trend Research's unrealized loss of $242 million underscores the risks of holding large positions amid prolonged price declines. Analysts caution that while Yi's long-term vision is compelling, short-term volatility could continue to test the patience of even the most committed investors.

Moreover, the firm's strategy relies on the assumption that Ethereum will rebound in 2026, a prediction that depends on broader macroeconomic factors, including regulatory clarity and technological upgrades. If these conditions do not materialize as expected, Trend Research's position could face further pressure before it reaches its projected breakeven point.