As Ethereum stumbles, Binance and Coinbase have sold millions in the cryptocurrency, setting off a wave of liquidations and raising market concerns. Key players are grappling with significant price drops, leading many to question exchange influences on price volatility.
On August 2, 2025, Binance and Coinbase liquidated extensive Ethereum holdings, causing a 10% price drop to around $3,500. This selloff eliminated over $708 million in leveraged positions, igniting widespread market uncertainty. Observers expressed alarm over what they perceive as market manipulation, stating, "When they sell, it's manipulation; when they buy, they're geniuses. How does that work?"
The broader crypto market took a significant hit, shedding approximately $500 billion in value. Bitcoin's decline mirrored Ethereum's drop, prompting fears among investors. Additionally, several commentators on forums recommended buying spot instead of engaging in margin trades, arguing, "The more they short, the more we buy spot; it puts their shorts at risk."
In the face of this turmoil, many institutions are seizing the moment as an investment opportunity. Notably, Standard Chartered maintains a bullish outlook, predicting Ethereum could reach $4,000 by year-end. Support for staking and DeFi continues to draw institutional investments, despite the ebb in prices. A commentator noted, "I second this. Institutions including myself bought on the dip."
๐ป Ethereum's price dropped 10%, affecting over $708 million in leveraged positions.
๐ถ The crypto market lost around $500 billion, influencing major cryptocurrencies.
๐ Buying pressure remains, with institutions looking to capitalize on the price dip.
Many wonder if Ethereum can recover from this downturn or will remain mired in volatility. Experts estimate a 60% likelihood of a rebound toward $4,000 by year-end, contingent on sustained institutional interests in staking and DeFi. Yet, if further liquidations unfold or negative sentiment prevails, Ethereum could drop under $3,000, with a 40% chance of such a downturn.
The recent Ethereum downturn echoes past financial crises, illustrating how large institutional actions can gravely affect market confidence. Similar to the 2008 financial collapse, Binance and Coinbase's maneuvers have sent shockwaves through the crypto sphere, underscoring how centralized exchanges can spark unforeseen market reactions.
As this narrative continues to unfold, traders and investors remain on high alert for any further developments that could shape the future of Ethereum and the broader cryptocurrency market.