Ethereum is expected to experience a significant shift in network dynamics in early 2026, marked by continuously decreasing gas fees, a rebound in open interest in futures contracts, and a breakthrough of the long-term downtrend channel. Analysts point out that stable and lower transaction costs could enhance Ethereum's appeal to institutional investors, while the steadily rising open interest—despite ETH trading prices dropping nearly 40% from their peak—currently exceeds levels seen before the October crash, indicating that traders are rebuilding leveraged positions. After breaking through the downtrend line, Ethereum's price is consolidating above $3000, and some chart analysts believe its target price could be $4400.