In the past three days, Ethereum's open interest peaked at $41.45 billion, an unprecedented level that highlighted the excessive use of leverage by investors. This buildup in leveraged positions, particularly on platforms like Binance, raised concerns that many traders would be caught off guard by a rapid price decrease. Those fears materialized as open interest fell by nearly 14% to $35.51 billion, indicating that many overextended traders either sold their positions or were liquidated altogether.
Despite these challenges, some market participants see the current situation as an opportunity. Lookonchain reports that a significant whale has purchased roughly 48,825 ETH, valued at around $127 million, during this price drop, indicating that not all investors are reacting with panic.
The next critical phase for Ethereum revolves around the $2,400 support level. Breaking below this level could trigger further liquidations and a more substantial decline. Should support hold, the market may stabilize, but the environment remains precarious as retail traders stay cautious and liquidity thins in the derivatives market.