Ethereum ETF Sees $170 Million Daily Inflow — Why Is ETH Price Still Flat?

Image: https://www.gate.com/trade/ETH_USDT

According to the latest Crypto News data, U.S.-listed Ethereum ETFs saw net inflows of approximately $170 million on October 15 (UTC), with BlackRock’s ETHA fund accounting for the majority at around $164 million. At the same time, ETH remained steady near $4,050 during the same period, with minimal price volatility.

This phenomenon of record-breaking inflow without price movement has sparked considerable discussion across the market.

Why Is Capital Flowing Strongly Into Ethereum ETFs?

Ethereum ETFs offer institutional investors a regulated and accessible route to participate in the market. The recent surge in inflows demonstrates that institutions continue to view ETH as a promising medium- to long-term asset. Some of this capital comes from portfolio rebalancing. Investors are shifting part of their Bitcoin exposure to ETH to seek higher return potential.

However, most ETF purchases are settled off-exchange, meaning they do not directly impact spot market trading. As a result, price reactions tend to lag behind inflows.

Why Has ETH’s Price Not Risen With the Inflows?

Capital inflows do not automatically translate into immediate price increases. Net inflows into ETFs mainly reflect shifts in market allocation, not a flood of new speculative capital. Data shows ETH’s average daily trading volume has dropped by more than 20% compared to the previous month, indicating a clear short-term wait-and-see sentiment among market participants.

Additionally, some long-term holders (whale addresses) have slightly reduced their positions. This suggests ongoing short-term profit-taking. The stable price movement reflects both institutional accumulation and divided market sentiment.

Technical Factors and the Macroeconomic Backdrop

From a technical analysis standpoint, ETH’s price is currently trading within a range of $3,940 to $4,290. The RSI stands near 44.5, indicating subdued short-term momentum. If ETH decisively breaks above the $4,300 resistance level, it may start another upward move.

On the macro side, the Federal Reserve’s high interest rate policy and the lack of a full rebound in global risk appetite continue to weigh on crypto asset performance. The strengthening U.S. dollar and rising Treasury yields are further limiting short-term upside.

Market Outlook: Consolidation May Set the Stage for a New Upswing

In summary, Ethereum is currently in a capital allocation phase. ETF inflows lay the groundwork for medium-term upside. The muted price response indicates that the market is still waiting for decisive catalysts.