Key Insights:
- Ethereum saw record inflows into accumulation addresses in December.
- More Ethereum is being locked in staking, reducing available supply.
- Ethereum is being moved into long-term holding wallets, not for short-term trading.
- Supply is tightening, with turnover staying high despite flat prices.
Ethereum Accumulation Activity Surges
Ethereum experienced a notable increase in accumulation activity in December. Even as selling pressure remained high, large amounts of the asset moved into accumulation addresses. These addresses historically hold assets for the long term, suggesting that a portion of the market is positioning itself for future gains rather than short-term profits.
ETH ACCUMULATION IS HAPPENING — AND STAKING IS PART OF IT
FXStreet data shows #Ethereum saw record inflows into accumulation addresses in December, even while selling pressure stayed elevated.
That’s one side of it.
The other side is staking. More Ethereum continues to move… pic.twitter.com/hvuOVlcqbo
— CryptosRus (@CryptosR_Us) January 3, 2026
Ethereum’s shift into these accumulation addresses is significant because it indicates that some investors are opting to hold their assets rather than sell them. CryptosRus noted, “Ethereum is moving into wallets that historically don’t sell quickly,”. This could signal that long-term holders are gradually accumulating more ETH, potentially tightening the available supply.
Staking Continues to Grow
At the same time, the asset has seen increased staking activity. More ETH has been locked up in validator staking, which removes it from circulation entirely. Staking is a mechanism that allows users to participate in Ethereum’s network security while earning rewards. This form of commitment shows that some participants are not merely looking for short-term price movements but are focused on long-term exposure to the asset.
“Ethereum is being locked up by validators and stakers,” analysts noted. By staking, these Ethereum holders help secure the network while committing their capital for the long haul. This further reduces the amount of ETH available for trading and could contribute to tighter supply conditions.
Market Behavior and Supply Tightening
While the price of Ethereum has remained relatively flat, the underlying supply dynamics are shifting. With increasing accumulation and staking, the amount of Ethereum in circulation continues to decrease, even as turnover stays high. This quiet tightening of supply is seen as significant because it suggests that while price fluctuations may not be immediate, the longer-term market behavior could shift.
The combination of active accumulation and staking is generally seen as a sign of strong commitment to Ethereum’s future. As supply tightens and demand remains steady, market participants may expect future price movements to reflect this change in dynamics.
