Trend Research Emerges as a Top Ethereum Holder, Amassing Billions Amidst Market Pessimism

A significant shift in the cryptocurrency landscape is underway as Trend Research, a trading firm led by veteran VC Jack Yi, has quietly amassed a substantial Ethereum (ETH) holding, valued at over $2.1 billion. This aggressive accumulation positions the firm among the top three known ETH-holding entities globally, signaling strong conviction in the digital asset's long-term potential despite current market uncertainties.

Key Takeaways

• Trend Research now holds between 580,000 and 645,000 ETH, making it one of the largest institutional holders.

• The firm has been steadily accumulating ETH since October, with a notable $137 million purchase in a single day recently.

• This accumulation is characterized as aggressive spot buying, not speculative hedging.

• Jack Yi, the leader of Trend Research, views current price weakness as short-term noise and anticipates a "major bull market" in 2026.

Aggressive Accumulation Strategy

On-chain data reveals that Trend Research has been on a buying spree, particularly accelerating its purchases during periods of market weakness. The firm recently acquired approximately 46,379 ETH, pushing its total holdings to around 580,000 ETH. This move places Trend Research behind only SharpLink Gaming and BitMine Immersion Technologies in terms of reported institutional ETH balances.

Unlike passive investments, Trend Research's strategy is described as aggressive spot accumulation. This indicates a deep-seated belief in Ethereum's future value, backed by substantial liquidity. Analysts suggest the firm still possesses significant capital ready for deployment.

A Counter-Narrative to Market Sentiment

While broader market sentiment has become cautious due to recent price corrections, Trend Research's actions present a starkly different outlook. The firm's consistent on-chain accumulation, timed during market downturns, contrasts with the prevailing pessimism. This strategy aligns with Yi's public statements, where he has framed current price ranges as a potential structural bottom and advised against shorting ETH.

Yi has articulated a long-term vision, predicting a "major bull market" in 2026. He argues that avoiding short-term volatility by missing out on potential multi-thousand-dollar upside would be a strategic misstep. This forward-looking perspective underscores Trend Research's commitment to capitalizing on perceived opportunities within the Ethereum ecosystem.

Strategic Positioning and Future Outlook

Trend Research plans to stake a significant portion of its ETH holdings through its Made in America Validator Network. This move aims to generate yield on its long-term investment, transforming its treasury into a productive, yield-bearing asset. This approach is seen as a strategic play for network dominance and consistent rewards, rather than mere price speculation.

The firm's substantial ETH position, built during market dips, sends a powerful signal to the market. It suggests that despite current narratives surrounding Ethereum's fees, competition, or underperformance relative to other cryptocurrencies, long-term expectations remain robust among experienced investors.

Sources

• New Ethereum Whale Emerges as Trend Research Amasses $2.1B in ETH, Bitcoinsensus.

• Trend Research Buys 46K ETH, Now 3rd Largest Institutional Ethereum Holder, CoinMarketCap.