BlackRock’s ETF products are rapidly reshaping custody in crypto. Its iShares Ethereum ETF now holds 3.6 million ETH, just 200,000 behind Coinbase after adding 1.2 million ETH in less than two months. At this pace, BlackRock could overtake Coinbase by year end, leaving Binance’s 4.7 million ETH lead within striking distance.
The trend extends to Bitcoin. BlackRock’s IBIT ETF has reached 745,000 BTC, surpassing Coinbase at 706,000 and Binance at 584,000. This marks a structural shift as institutions increasingly favor regulated ETF custody, reducing reliance on exchanges. Analysts see this accumulation as a sign of deepening conviction that tightens supply and stabilizes prices near 111,000.
Exchange inflows have collapsed, reinforcing the shift. The 30 day average of BTC deposits has dropped to its lowest since May 2023, while ETH inflows sit near April 2024 lows despite trading above 4,600. Reduced inflows suggest investors are reluctant to sell, and when paired with ETF demand, the backdrop points to supply scarcity.
ETF flows highlight the divergence. Ether products have absorbed more than 1.5 billion in net inflows since last week, including 450 million in a single day. Bitcoin ETFs posted 1.17 billion in outflows but quickly rebounded with 310 million of fresh inflows in just two sessions. The data underscores how institutions are leaning toward ETH while BTC consolidates.
Technical signals remain key into September. Bitcoin’s 100 day EMA at 110,850 is the level to hold for a push toward 116,000 to 117,000, while losing it could trigger a slide toward 102,000. Ether continues to trade in a rising channel, with 4,700 seen as the breakout level before a possible move into the 5,200 to 5,500 range. Combined with falling exchange supply and accelerating ETF demand, the stage is set for continued institutional influence into year end.
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