Joe Consorti, an analyst at The Bitcoin Layer and advisor to self-custody app Theya, an incisive critique on the future of Ethereum in comparison to Bitcoin, shedding light on why he believes Ethereum is facing a “slow and painful death.” Published on X, his analysis titled “The Slow & Painful Death of Ethereum” compares the two leading cryptocurrencies, emphasizing significant underperformance and declining market interest in Ethereum.
Why Ethereum Is ‘Dying’
Consorti begins his analysis by highlighting the stark contrast in performance metrics between Ethereum and Bitcoin over the past year. Ethereum, according to Consorti, has suffered a 10.6% drop in value since January, whereas Bitcoin has recorded a substantial 42% increase. This divergence is underscored by the ETH/BTC ratio which has recently broken below the 0.05 level, a critical threshold for the two assets historically. This ratio, Consorti argues, is more than just a number; it represents the shifting balance of power in the crypto market.
“The more important gauge of the staying power of Ethereum, and all of “crypto” by extension, is ETH/BTC. By removing dollars from the denominator, we can clearly see that from a market dominance perspective, all of “crypto” is on life support. ETH/BTC has cratered through the key 0.05 level, an arbitrary threshold but crucial to the trading behavior of the two assets over the years,” Consorti writes.
Talking about the reasons, Consorti points to the differing narratives that have driven investor interest in both cryptocurrencies. Ethereum’s narrative has largely been built around its technological advancements and potential applications, from smart contracts to decentralized finance. However, Consorti suggests that this narrative is no longer resonating with investors as it once did, leading to diminished hype.
On the other hand, Bitcoin continues to attract investors with its clear value proposition of being a decentralized, finite digital asset, which Consorti refers to as “absolute scarcity.” The analyst points to the performance of the US spot Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs). He notes that US-based Ethereum ETFs have experienced consistent net outflows, totaling over $110 million during an 8-day streak, indicating waning investor confidence. In stark contrast, Bitcoin ETFs have not only launched successfully but have continued to attract significant capital, accumulating approximately $750 million in net inflows.
Another pivotal aspect of Consorti’s argument centers around the monetary policies of Ethereum and Bitcoin. Ethereum’s shift to a Proof of Stake (PoS) consensus mechanism in 2022 initially led to a deflationary supply mechanism. However, this was short-lived, as highlighted by a subsequent upgrade that increased Ethereum’s supply by 200,000 ETH over five months. “The ‘ultrasound money’ narrative has also died on the vine,” Consorti adds.
He criticizes the frequent changes of monetary policies, contrasting it with Bitcoin’s fixed supply of 21 million coins, which he argues offers investors a reliable hedge against inflation and monetary debasement. This makes BTC appealing to everyone. “Bitcoin’s fixed monetary policy and absolutely scarce supply schedule are a breath of fresh air for investors who are keen on hedging themselves from unfettered monetary debasement. While ETH ETFs are off to an abysmal start, Bitcoin ETFs have managed to grab the number 3 and 9 spot in YTD net inflows amongst all US-based ETF products,” Consorti notes.
The broader financialization of Bitcoin is also a key theme in Consorti’s analysis. He discusses recent developments such as Nasdaq’s filing to allow Bitcoin options trading, which reflects Bitcoin’s growing integration into mainstream financial markets. This, Consorti implies, not only enhances Bitcoin’s legitimacy but also its attractiveness as an investment vehicle relative to Ethereum, which has seen its ecosystem deteriorate in parallel with the price decline of its native token.
At press time, ETH traded at $2,522.
ETH price, 1-day chart | Source:
Featured image created with DALL.E, chart from TradingView.com
Jake Simmons, a dedicated crypto journalist, has been passionate about Bitcoin since 2016 when he first learned about it. Through his extensive work with ktsl888.com and Bitcoinist.com, Jake has become a trusted voice in the crypto community, guiding newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts alike towards a deeper understanding of this dynamic field.
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His mission is simple yet profound: to demystify Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies and make them accessible to everyone.
With a professional career in the Bitcoin and crypto scene that began right after graduating with a degree in Information Systems in 2017, Jake has immersed himself in the industry. Jake joined the NewsBTC Group in late 2022. His educational background provides him with the technical prowess and analytical skills necessary to dissect complex topics and present them in an understandable format. Whether you are a casual reader curious about Bitcoin or an investor seeking to navigate the latest market trends, Jake’s insights offer valuable perspectives that bridge the gap between complex technology and everyday usage.
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As a journalist, Jake’s articles are crafted with the precision of a scholar and the passion of a true believer. He provides not only news but also thoughtful analysis that connects the dots between daily developments and larger economic theories. His work is a beacon for those lost in the technical jargon often associated with crypto discussions, illuminating the practical implications and benefits of these technologies.
In summary, Jake Simmons is not just reporting on a revolution; he wants to be part of it, fully committed to enhancing public understanding and adoption of Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies. His work is more than just a collection of articles; it’s a resource, a guide, and a companion for anyone ready to explore the potential of this digital frontier. Whether you are taking your first steps into crypto or are a veteran looking to stay on top of the latest trends, Jake’s insights provide clarity and foresight in an often unpredictable industry. Join him on this journey to reshape the world of finance, one post at a time.
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