Ethereum Sets Transaction Record Amid Falling Fees: What Performance Might ETH Show in 2026?

This week, Ethereum reached a new all-time high, processing 2.2 million transactions in a single day with an average fee of about $0.17. This is a significant drop compared to peak values over $200 in May 2022. Fees continue to fall thanks to network upgrades, such as Pectra in May 2025, which improved validator operations, staking flexibility, and preparation for scaling, as well as Fusaka, which increased the gas limit from 45 million to 60 million, enhancing efficiency and data processing.

Additionally, on Monday, the Ethereum staking withdrawal queue dropped below the deposit queue for the first time in six months: the amount of ETH waiting to be deposited into staking now nearly doubles the amount being withdrawn. This indicates growing investor confidence in locking up assets, which could support network stability.

Looking ahead to 2026, Ethereum shows potential for strong growth due to institutional adoption, asset tokenization, and further upgrades. Analysts from BeInCrypto predicts a bullish scenario for ETH in 2026, citing rising institutional interest and tokenization development. Citi predicts that Ethereum could reach $5440 within 12 months from October 2025, i.e., by October 2026. Experts from Finder expect ETH to exceed $6100 by the end of 2025 and potentially reach $12000 by 2030, emphasizing a bright future. Bitwise forecasts that ETFs will acquire over 100% of the new supply of Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana in 2026 due to accelerating institutional demand.

Upgrades like Glamsterdam in the first half of 2026 could increase transaction speed (TPS) to ~3000 by 2027, starting from the current 30 TPS, improving scalability.

Some analysts, like Chris MacDonald, believe ETH could surpass $5000 in 2026 thanks to transaction activity, active wallets, and total value. However, there are also bearish forecasts, such as a 50% chance of dropping to $1650.

In 2025, Ethereum made significant strides, raising gas limits, improving node software, and preparing for decentralization in 2026. This could lead to a breakthrough to $4000 or higher, depending on institutional adoption and network fundamentals.

Please note that this information is not financial advice.Investments in cryptocurrencies involve high risks, and decisions should be made based on your own research and consultations with professionals.