2026: Towards a New Record for Ethereum?

In January 2026, Ethereum sparks passionate debates. After a 36% drop since its August 2025 peak, the world’s second-largest crypto shows social sentiment at a low. Yet, this trend strangely recalls the pre-rally period of 2025. Experts wonder: does this decline herald a historic recovery for the crypto?

Ethereum: Low Social Sentiment a Sign of an Imminent Rise?

At the moment when Ethereum dominates DeFi, sentiment around ETH is currently at its lowest, according to Brian Quinlivan. In January 2026, the crypto trades around $3,089, far from the $4,878 reached in August 2025. However, this drop in investor morale is not necessarily bad news. Historically, negative sentiment has often preceded major rallies, like in 2025, when Ethereum recorded a 70% increase in a few months.

Data shows that 59% of traders on Kalshi believe Ethereum will exceed $4,250 in 2026, while 40% bet on breaking through $5,000. Additionally, the Fear & Greed index, currently at 29, confirms this “fear” sentiment, a level often associated with buying opportunities. This dynamic, where widespread pessimism can precede a rebound, is a well-known phenomenon among experienced investors. It invites close monitoring of upcoming market moves.

Experts’ Forecasts for Ethereum: Between $4,250 and $10,000 in 2026

Forecasts for Ethereum in 2026 vary considerably by source. Indeed, CoinCodex and Changelly anticipate a low range between $3,100 and $3,340, with a short-term “bearish” sentiment. Conversely, traders on Kalshi and Polymarket expect progression towards $4,250 to $5,000, reflecting moderate optimism. The most ambitious scenarios come from analysts like Tom Lee of Fundstrat, who mentions potential of $7,000 to $9,000, even $10,000 for the boldest. These forecasts rely on several factors: 

• Increasing demand for staking;
• Growing adoption of Layer-2 solutions;
• The central role of Ethereum in the “digital civilization”, as highlighted by the Ethereum Foundation.

However, risks persist. Ki Young Ju, CEO of CryptoQuant, warns of possible consolidation in the first quarter of 2026, while regulatory pressure and competition from other blockchains could slow this rise. Nevertheless, optimism dominates, with a 59% probability that Ethereum will surpass $4,250 this year.

ETH: What to Do in 2026? Strategies for Investors and Observers

For investors, 2026 promises to be a pivotal year for Ethereum. The first step is to monitor key levels: $3,000 as support and $3,500 as resistance. These thresholds could determine the short-term trend. Observers should closely follow Ethereum network updates and institutional announcements, such as ETFs or major partnerships. 

Finally, it is crucial to remember that forecasts remain speculative. Combining technical, fundamental, and sentiment analyses helps reduce risks. Prudent investors will diversify their crypto portfolios and avoid relying solely on emotional market trends.

Ethereum in 2026 stands at a crossroads. Between gloomy social sentiment and solid fundamentals, the crypto could surprise. Experts and data suggest significant upside potential but under conditions. And you, do you think ETH will hit a new record this year?