Ethereum Staking Hits Record High Amid Price Weakness

Ethereum staking has reached an all-time high of 41.9 million $ETH, defying the cryptocurrency's price weakness that saw it drop to around $1,800.

The steady increase in staked Ethereum suggests that lower prices have not deterred holders from locking up their coins for yield, with total staked supply rising from approximately 36 million in early 2026. In fact, recent inflows of around 28,700 $ETH are below earlier spikes above 200,000 $ETH, indicating a less aggressive accumulation trend.

The significant growth in staking has reduced the immediate supply available for trading and has limited Ethereum's liquidity. This could strengthen scarcity if market demand eventually recovers. However, EIP-8363, also known as 'Tapered Issuance Burn,' aims to alter the way new participation on Ethereum is rewarded by reducing validator rewards in proportion to increases in staking ratios.

According to Blockworks Research, near the current 33% staking ratio, annual issuance would drop toward 0.8%, below the existing reward curve. As staking approaches 50% of supply, issuance would continue falling until reaching zero. This proposed reduction will impact institutions already earning substantial income from staking, such as BitMine, which holds 5.81 million $ETH and could potentially earn around $257 million annually off current rewards.