Ethereum Long-term Price Outlook: Can the Fusaka Upgrade Drive New ATHs?

Ethereum’s long-term outlook heading into 2026 reflects a balance between structural upgrades and unresolved external risks. While network improvements continue to strengthen Ethereum’s role as the core settlement layer for decentralized applications, price direction will depend on whether technical catalysts can outweigh regulatory pressure and staking concentration concerns.

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Technical Levels Define the Medium-Term Path

From a price structure perspective, Ethereum faces a pivotal zone around $3,120. This level aligns with a key liquidation cluster, where a breakout could force short positions to unwind and accelerate upside momentum.

A confirmed move above this zone would shift focus toward $3,570, corresponding with the 38.2% Fibonacci retracement. This area represents the next meaningful resistance and would serve as a test of broader bullish conviction.

On the downside, failure to clear $3,120 keeps Ethereum vulnerable to a pullback toward $2,720. A retest of this level would suggest the market remains range-bound rather than transitioning into a sustained uptrend.

Fusaka Upgrade as a Long-Term Catalyst

The Fusaka upgrade stands out as a central variable in Ethereum’s 2026 trajectory. Its impact will largely be measured by changes in Layer 2 activity, including transaction throughput, fee efficiency, and developer engagement.

If Fusaka meaningfully improves L2 scalability and reduces friction for rollups, Ethereum could reinforce its position as the dominant execution and settlement layer. This would support long-term demand for ETH as both a utility and staking asset, rather than relying solely on speculative flows.

However, the market is likely to wait for clear post-upgrade data before pricing in long-term benefits.

Regulatory and Structural Risks Remain

Despite technical progress, Ethereum continues to face external headwinds. Regulatory uncertainty remains a key risk, particularly with the SEC’s decision on Ethereum ETF-related matters expected in Q1 2026. A favorable outcome could broaden institutional access, while delays or restrictions may cap upside momentum.

Staking centralization is another concern. Concentration among large validators and liquid staking providers raises questions about network resilience and governance, which could influence institutional perception over time.

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ETH Price Outlook

Ethereum’s long-term price outlook hinges on execution rather than narrative. A breakout above $3,121 would strengthen the bullish case and open the path toward higher Fibonacci targets. At the same time, the Fusaka upgrade must translate into measurable growth in Layer 2 usage to support a move toward new all-time highs.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.