ETH Futures Bearish, But Staking, Corporate Demand Show Strength

Demand for ETH leverage remains low, but corporate accumulation and stakers’ dedication may prevent an Ether price crash to $1,500.  **Key takeaways:** * While bearish ETH futures trends and spot ETF outflows signal weak institutional appetite, staking demand prevents further decline. * Falling exchange deposits and accumulation by BitMine indicate holder confidence in ETH's long-term value. Ether (ETH) price failed to reclaim the $1,700 level over the past week, tracking a broader weakness across cryptocurrency markets. This correction contrasts sharply with the bullish momentum seen in the US stock market. Traders worry that Ether's appeal has faded due to sluggish on-chain activity and a distinct lack of demand for bullish leveraged positions. Source: Laevitas_ The ETH perpetual futures annualized funding rate flipped negative on June 5, meaning shorts are paying premiums to keep their positions open. Bullish traders remain uncomfortable adding risk despite a 30% price correction over the past five weeks. Source: CoinGlass_ Total exposure on ETH futures has fallen 30% in a month, hitting a 13-month low. This shrinking institutional appetite is evident in US-listed Ether spot exchange-traded funds, which posted $323 million in net outflows over two weeks.