Ethereum Whale Commits $646M, Demonstrating Confidence in Staking’s Future Potential
- A 2014 Ethereum ICO investor staked 150,000 ETH ($646M) after three years of dormancy, marking one of the largest recent deposits into Ethereum’s staking layer. - The investor’s original $310,000 ICO purchase (1M ETH) has grown to $4.3B, reflecting Ethereum’s long-term value and stable staking yields. - This activity highlights growing institutional and retail confidence in Ethereum’s proof-of-stake model, with staking exceeding 33M ETH in 2025. - Analysts note dormant supply reactivation could influence
A large share of
This investor originally purchased 1 million ETH during 2014 for $310,000 and has maintained 105,000 ETH across two wallets, which were valued at $451 million as of September 2025. The recent staking follows three years of inactivity, with only a single non-ETH transaction recorded since February 2022. According to Lookonchain, the initial investment at $0.31 per ETH has now grown to a value of $4.3 billion.
This staking move is part of a wider pattern where early investors are becoming active again within the Ethereum ecosystem. Market observers point out that these actions indicate previously idle supply is being put to use, though in this instance, the ETH was staked rather than sold. The choice to stake instead of liquidate may suggest the investor’s trust in Ethereum’s yield prospects and the maturity of its proof-of-stake system.
With this 150,000 ETH deposit, Ethereum’s staking layer has surpassed 33 million ETH in 2025, fueled by veteran holders seeking higher returns. This development highlights increasing confidence from both institutions and individual investors in staking as a sustainable investment strategy, especially as Ethereum’s technical upgrades and clearer regulations in places like Europe make it more attractive.
The reactivation of sizable ETH holdings has prompted conversations about its impact on the market. Although staking does not immediately affect liquidity, it draws attention to how major on-chain transactions can shape market sentiment. Experts warn that large movements of dormant ETH could bring about price swings, but staking locks up these funds, reducing the risk of sudden sell-offs.
This occurrence also points to broader changes in Ethereum’s growth. The staking layer has become a central part of Ethereum’s financial structure, with more long-term holders joining as returns stabilize. The decision by this early whale to stake aligns with Ethereum’s ongoing integration into institutional finance, including the recent approval of spot ETFs in the United States, which has increased demand for ETH.
The investor’s move to stake highlights Ethereum’s durability and its appeal as a long-term asset. Even as the market shifts and competitors like
Disclaimer: The content of this article solely reflects the author's opinion and does not represent the platform in any capacity. This article is not intended to serve as a reference for making investment decisions.
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