Traders Buy the Ether Dip: ETHI Draws Big Inflows Despite Bearish Signals

Leveraged Ether Income Fund Sees Double-Digit Inflow as Traders Lean Into the Dip

The Defiance Leveraged Long Income Ethereum ETF, ETHI, attracted fresh capital of $801,075 on January 09, 2026, a notably strong daily intake for the fund. With assets under management now sitting at $5,287,095, the latest flow represents roughly 15.2% of ETHI’s total AUM—an aggressive allocation shift that suggests investors are willing to add risk exposure despite recent volatility in Ethereum.

Such a sizable single-day inflow, relative to the ETF’s asset base, often reflects a tactical move rather than slow-burning accumulation. ETHI’s leveraged, income-oriented structure is designed to amplify price moves in Ethereum, making it a vehicle favored by more speculative traders seeking to monetize short- to medium-term swings, as well as investors looking to boost yield in a low-rate environment. The fresh capital may indicate that some market participants see the recent weakness in Ether as an opportunity rather than a warning sign.

The related asset, ETH-USD, is currently trading at $3,100.97. Over the past three months, Ether has fallen about 17.8%, reflecting a broader risk-off tone across digital assets and lingering concerns over regulatory and macroeconomic headwinds. Short-term momentum remains fragile, with a 1-day technical signal of Sell, underscoring the tension between ETF inflows and ongoing technical pressure in the spot market.

For now, ETHI’s latest flows highlight a growing cohort of investors willing to position ahead of a potential rebound, even as technical indicators flash caution. Whether this proves to be shrewd dip-buying or premature risk-taking will depend on how quickly Ethereum can regain its footing in the weeks ahead. For a more detailed analysis and real-time sentiment trends, check the live cryptocurrency prices here.