Ethereum price this week surged by 29% between May 8 and May 9, surprising much of the crypto market.
After bottoming out at $1,385 in early April, ETH’s breakout caught whales and market makers off guard. Over $400 million in short positions were liquidated within hours, a clear signal of market misalignment.
Despite the explosive move, the Ethereum price this week failed to spark demand for derivatives or spot ETFs. Data shows a third straight day of ETF outflows, totaling $16 million on May 8 alone. Traders also maintained a neutral outlook in ETH futures and options markets. The futures premium hasn’t surpassed the 5% neutral mark, and put-call ratios show balanced expectations.
The weak investor response raises questions: Is this a trend reversal or a fakeout before another test of the $2,000 level?
Whales caught off guard despite the Ethereum price this week hitting 4-year highs
Ethereum still leads in decentralization and total value locked (TVL). With $64 billion in TVL, it far outpaces Solana, Tron, and BNB Chain combined. Yet, the muted enthusiasm hints at a deeper issue. Ethereum network fees have plummeted by 85% since January. With lower fees, staking yields drop, and the protocol burns less ETH, reducing both investor returns and deflationary support.
This Ethereum price surge, impressive as it was, hasn’t translated into broader bullish confidence. Many investors remain cautious, waiting for clearer signs of long-term recovery. Analysts are divided: some see opportunity in short covering, others point to lacking fundamentals.
Ethereum price this week can’t shake off weak ETF and derivatives activity
Geopolitics also entered the picture. Former President Donald Trump reversed his stance on several altcoins he once supported. This shift, tied to lobbying fallout, may help ETH regain narrative dominance. Though speculative, changes in political tone could influence institutional sentiment.
Ethereum price this week reflects a clash between strong price action and cautious fundamentals. The rally might continue toward $2,700 if sentiment improves and competitors like Solana lose political momentum. Until then, ETH remains a story of potential masked by hesitation.