Ethereum Rises 6.7% Over the Past Week as ETF Developments Advance and Large Investors Accumulate

As of October 28, 2025,

(ETH) experienced a 0.12% decline over the past day, settling at $4118.2, but saw a 6.7% increase over the previous week. Over the last month, ETH slipped by 0.72%, while its value jumped 23.3% year-over-year. This week, Ethereum was in the spotlight due to significant ETF approval developments, institutional moves, and notable whale transactions.

BlackRock’s application for an Ethereum Staking ETF has entered a broader review phase by the SEC, raising hopes for regulatory clarity and greater institutional access to Ethereum. The deadline to finalize the staking component is set for October 30. Experts believe that if the application is approved, it could serve as a bullish trigger for Ethereum’s price.

Large investors and whales continue to demonstrate strong interest in Ethereum. Pal expanded its long ETH position by 200 ETH within ten minutes, bringing its total long exposure to about $18.43 million. At the same time, the so-called “100% Win Rate Whale” added 100 ETH to its holdings, now totaling 47,548 ETH valued at roughly $196 million. These actions suggest a steady and strategic accumulation by major market players.

A new entrant, known as the "Buddy" trader, also increased their long ETH position by 100 ETH, raising their total to $16.28 million. This points to ongoing demand for Ethereum derivatives and growing confidence among bullish investors. Analysts observe that such gradual accumulation could signal future price strength, especially when paired with rising open interest and liquidity.

Backtest Hypothesis

To assess Ethereum’s potential for further gains, a backtesting hypothesis is outlined using technical indicators commonly applied in ETH price analysis. The strategy is based on a “buy after a 5% jump” rule—activated when the current day’s closing price is at least 5% above the previous day’s close. The trade is entered at the next day’s open to capture continued upward momentum.

Ethereum will be the sole asset tested, reflecting its prominence among institutional and whale investors. The plan involves holding each position for five trading days, exiting on the fifth day regardless of price changes. A 3% stop-loss is set to manage downside risk, while a 10% take-profit is used to secure early gains. The test period runs from January 1, 2022, to October 28, 2025, with equal capital allocated to each trade and only one position open at a time.

This method is designed to isolate Ethereum’s reaction to short-term buying spikes, while incorporating risk management and volatility controls. If the strategy consistently produces positive results across different cycles, it may support the view that Ethereum is benefiting from momentum driven by institutional and whale activity.