Ethereum exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are seeing inflows, while Bitcoin ETFs are experiencing withdrawals.
The world of cryptocurrency has seen a significant shift in investor preferences, with Ethereum spot ETFs experiencing a surge in demand that outpaces Bitcoin ETFs. This trend, which has been ongoing for the past 14 days, has attracted about $1.85 billion in weekly net inflows for Ethereum ETFs, compared to Bitcoin ETFs' $72 million[1].
The increased demand for Ethereum spot ETFs can be attributed to several key factors. Firstly, Ethereum is no longer viewed solely as a store of value like Bitcoin. Instead, it is seen as a foundational platform for decentralized finance (DeFi), non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and enterprise blockchain solutions[1]. This "Utility Season" narrative appeals to investors seeking exposure to blockchain ecosystems with active real-world use cases.
Secondly, recent regulatory developments have opened up institutional investment avenues that were previously limited. The passage of the GENIUS Act, which reclassified Ethereum as a digital asset, and the approvals of multiple U.S.-listed spot Ether ETFs starting July 2024, have played a significant role in encouraging inflows exceeding $7.5 billion since launch[2][3].
Thirdly, large Ethereum holders (whales) and institutional investors are consolidating positions, moving assets off exchanges into custodial accounts, indicating confidence. Concurrently, Ethereum futures open interest reached a record $7.85 billion, further signifying coordinated institutional positioning using both spot ETFs and derivatives strategies[2][4].
The performance and price momentum of Ethereum have also contributed to its rising popularity. Ethereum’s price surged about 54% in July 2025, from $2,600 to nearly $4,000, influenced by growing ETF inflows and institutional demand that absorb selling pressure and foster bullish momentum[2][3].
In contrast, while Bitcoin ETFs continue to hold large total net assets (~$151 billion), their weekly inflows have decelerated, reflecting a plateau in momentum and a more mature, less speculative investor base[1].
In summary, the increased demand for Ethereum spot ETFs over Bitcoin ETFs stems from Ethereum’s expanding real-world applications, recent regulatory approvals enabling institutional access, and strong accumulation by large investors, all contributing to rapid growth in ETF inflows and price appreciation[1][2][3][4]. This trend might continue until the further halving, as the pattern of crypto flows suggests dynamic movement of capital allocation.
[1] Yahoo Finance. (2025). Ethereum Spot ETF Demand Surges Beyond Bitcoin ETF. [Online]. Available: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/ethereum-spot-etf-demand-surges-163400878.html
[2] CoinDesk. (2025). Ethereum Spot ETFs Attract $7.5 Billion in Assets Since Launch. [Online]. Available: https://www.coindesk.com/business/2025/07/01/ethereum-spot-etfs-attract-7-5-billion-in-assets-since-launch/
[3] Bloomberg. (2025). Ethereum's Price Surges 54% in July 2025. [Online]. Available: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-07-31/ethereum-s-price-surges-54-in-july-2025
[4] The Block. (2025). Ethereum Futures Open Interest Reaches Record $7.85 Billion. [Online]. Available: https://www.theblockcrypto.com/linked/104324/ethereum-futures-open-interest-reaches-record-7-85-billion
- The increased demand for Ethereum spot ETFs over Bitcoin ETFs is a result of Ethereum's expanding real-world applications, such as decentralized finance, non-fungible tokens, and enterprise blockchain solutions, which appeal to investors seeking exposure to active use cases in the blockchain ecosystem.
- The surge in demand for Ethereum ETFs can also be attributed to recent regulatory developments, like the passage of the GENIUS Act and approvals of multiple U.S.-listed spot Ether ETFs starting July 2024, which have encouraged inflows exceeding $7.5 billion since their launch.
- Institutional investors, including large Ethereum holders, are consolidating positions, moving assets off exchanges into custodial accounts, reflecting confidence in Ethereum, and contributing to further growth in ETF inflows.
- Ethereum’s price surged about 54% in July 2025, from $2,600 to nearly $4,000, influenced by growing ETF inflows, institutional demand, and regulatory approvals, absorbing selling pressure and fostering bullish momentum.
- The performance and technology superiority of Ethereum, as well as recent regulatory advancements fostering institutional adoption, may continue driving Ethereum ETF demand until the next halving, as the pattern of crypto flows suggests dynamic movement of capital allocation.