Ethereum is Seen by Experts Heading Toward the $8,500 Range Large Investors Support the Rally

The latest movements in the Ethereum market paint an intriguing picture. While BTC remains strong at $90.78K, ETH is currently trading at $3.10K, with a 24-hour decrease of 0.47%. However, the behind-the-scenes activity of whale investors tells a different story.

Whale Signal: Over $660 Million Ethereum Purchased in One Week

The most significant reach for Ethereum comes from the confidence of large investors. According to crypto analyst Ali Martinez, whales have aggressively bought approximately 220,000 ETH in the past week—an amount that has reached nearly $660 million. This is not just simple buying activity; it is a clear bullish sentiment signal from sophisticated market participants.

Furthermore, individual whale transactions show consistent conviction. Another major investor bought $16.09 million worth of Ethereum on December 25, as part of a larger accumulation strategy. In just three weeks, this whale has accumulated a total of $130.7 million worth of ETH. The consistent buying despite market volatility indicates a deep understanding by insider investors of the potential upside.

Technical Setup: Hidden Bullish Divergence Like 2023

Analysts see Ethereum at a critical technical juncture. According to crypto analyst Javon Marks, ETH shows a hidden bullish divergence—the same chart pattern that appeared in 2023 before the big bull run. This setup is not just nostalgia; it is a reproducible technical signal that often indicates a strong rally is coming.

If Ethereum successfully breaks out decisively at the current resistance level and surpasses the previous all-time high near $4,954, it will open larger doors. The target is expected to reach the $8,500 range—a position that could result in a 170% increase from the current level.

The Breakout Needed: $3,000 is the Critical Line

In the short term, Ethereum’s price needs to establish a stronger range. ETH recovered from the $2,900 low on December 26, but the critical $3,000 resistance level remains difficult to break. According to analyst Ted Pillows, this zone is key to the next move.

If Ethereum maintains its position above $3,000, it will open the path for sustained growth. Conversely, if the price falls back below this resistance, the $2,800 support level will be the next line of defense. This binary outcome makes the next few days crucial for the bullish scenario.

ETH Options Expiry and the Volatility Cycle

The $3.8 billion spot ETH options expiring on December 26 added extra pressure to the market. The max pain point for options is currently aligned with the $3,000 resistance, making this level an aggressive target for market makers and sellers to defend.

ETF outflows continuing throughout the week also contribute to short-term headwinds. However, institutional traders know that seasonal weakness is often temporary in crypto cycles.

The 2026 Catalyst: Network Upgrades That Will Change the Permanent Landscape

The longer-term narrative for Ethereum looks toward this year’s roadmap. The blockchain will undergo two major network upgrades expected to boost capacity and functionality. The Glamsterdam fork is planned for mid-year, followed by the Hegota fork after 2026.

These upgrades provide fundamental catalysts for a long-term bullish case. While the market navigates short-term volatility, experts see a larger strategy behind—one moving toward significantly higher valuation levels.

The combination of whale accumulation, technical setup, and network development roadmap creates a compelling argument for investors to stay vigilant around the $3,000 resistance level.