Ethereum Validator Exit Queue Hits 521,000 ETH Amid Record-High Waiting Times and Growing Entry Demand

Data from The Block on July 23 reveals a notable increase in the Ethereum validator exit queue, with around 521,000 ETH—valued at approximately $1.9 billion—awaiting withdrawal from the network. Since July 16, the volume of ETH exit requests has surged, extending the exit waiting period to 8-9 days, marking the longest delay observed since early 2024. Concurrently, the entry queue has grown, with over 359,500 ETH (about $1.3 billion) pending activation, facing an estimated delay of six days. This dynamic illustrates contrasting market trends: profit-taking by stakers following Ethereum’s 162% price recovery since April, alongside increased inflows driven by regulatory clarity and institutional interest. Notably, firms such as SharpLink Gaming and BitMine Immersion have expanded their ETH stakes, contributing to the rising entry queue. These developments underscore the evolving landscape of Ethereum staking, reflecting both cautious profit realization and growing confidence from institutional participants.