Ethereum (ETH) has recently performed remarkably, with the price breaking through the $3500 mark, sparking speculation in the market about a potential surge to $7000 by year-end. Behind this rise, the quiet entry of institutional investors has played a key role.

Glassnode data reveals that the number of Ethereum whale addresses has significantly increased in the past two weeks, indicating that institutions are actively getting on board. Meanwhile, the advancement of BlackRock's Ethereum spot ETF approval process has further stimulated capital bets on the "year-end market."

From the perspective of market psychology, the current price level of $3500 is precisely at a delicate balance point. This price is neither cheap nor at a prohibitive height, sitting right at the critical point that triggers accelerated investor sentiment. This "fear of missing out" mentality is likely to become a catalyst for driving the subsequent FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) market.

It is worth noting that the expectation for Ethereum to reach $7000 by the end of the year is not a pipe dream, but a reasonable inference based on current market dynamics. With continued inflow of institutional funds and potential ETF approvals, this goal may become achievable.

However, retail investors still maintain a wait-and-see attitude. This contrast between institutions and retail investors adds some suspense to the market's subsequent development. Whether Ethereum can continue its strength and break through new highs in the future still requires close attention to market changes and regulatory trends.