Ethereum Staking Surges as $8.61 Billion ETH Enters PoS Network

Ethereum's proof-of-stake (PoS) network has seen a significant increase in staking activity. Around $8.61 billion worth of ETH is currently queued to join the network. This development follows the Ethereum validator exit queue dropping to zero, indicating a decline in selling pressure.

The growing inflow into the staking network highlights a strengthening supply-demand dynamic for ETH. With the entry queue at 2.6 million ETH, wait times for activation have stretched to 45 days. This suggests increased confidence in Ethereum as a yield-bearing asset.

Analysts from industry research firms have noted that the staking trend could support upward price momentum. Once the entry queue converts into active validators, staking rates may push ETH toward new highs. This scenario is seen as a bullish setup for the coming months.

Institutional demand for ETH staking yields has also contributed to the surge. Current staking yields stand at around 2.8% annual percentage rate, attracting large players like BitMine Immersion Technologies. The firm has staked over 1.25 million ETH, more than a third of its holdings.

More than 46.5% of the total ETH supply is now in the PoS deposit contract, amounting to 77.85 million ETH. This represents a value of $256 billion at current prices. Meanwhile, the total staked ETH stands at about 36.1 million, representing 29% of the total supply.

Why Did This Happen?

The recent surge in staking activity can be attributed to favorable market conditions and institutional interest. The exit queue reaching zero indicates strong retention among validators. This is a sign of confidence in the network's future performance.

Institutional buying has also played a role in driving staking demand. BlackRock's Ethereum ETF recorded a daily inflow of $149.2 million on January 16, 2026. This is part of a broader trend, with Ethereum ETF inflows totaling $474.6 million over four days.

Staking yields remain attractive compared to other asset classes. With ETH trading at $3,300, which is below its all-time high of $4,946, staking provides a compelling return on investment for institutional and retail investors alike.

How Did Markets Respond?

Market participants have interpreted the staking surge as a positive signal for ETH's future. Renewed ETF inflows and strong network activity have positioned ETH for a potential rally to $4,500.

Ethereum network activity has also reached record levels. Active addresses on the network rose to a 28-month high of 995,779 on January 15. Daily transactions have also increased to 2.9 million, showing continued network adoption.

Analysts suggest that maintaining key support levels is crucial for further upside potential. A weekly close above the 50-week exponential moving average could confirm the bullish trend.

What Are Analysts Watching Next?

Experts are closely monitoring the balance between staking inflows and new supply. If institutional demand continues, it could further reduce circulating ETH supply, supporting higher prices.

The performance of Ethereum ETFs is also a focal point. Grayscale's ETHE recorded a $3.9 million inflow on January 13. If this trend continues, it could signal broader institutional confidence in Ethereum.

Bitmine's staking activities are another key indicator. The firm has staked 1.08 million ETH, worth $3.33 billion, as Ethereum's unstaking queue hit zero. This move reflects growing institutional conviction in the PoS model.

Network health metrics, such as validator participation and total staked ETH, are also being watched. With over 35 million ETH staked, the network is showing resilience and long-term stability.

Market observers suggest that the combination of staking inflows, ETF activity, and strong network fundamentals could support a sustained upward trend for ETH. However, they caution that macroeconomic factors and regulatory developments could influence the trajectory.