In the bullish scenario, continued inflows from institutions, better participation in staking, and sustained confidence by investors could see Ethereum push through $3,800 and then above $4,000, possibly stabilizing near $4,200 ahead of another bout of profit-taking.
In a neutral scenario, Ethereum might consolidate between $3,400 and $3,800 for some time laterally, with investors being in wait-and-watch mode for stronger signals. In this case, $4,000 would remain a longer-term target rather than an immediate one.
In the bear case, global markets could weaken, and/or a major regulatory shock could strike the crypto sector, pulling Ethereum below $3,000 once more. While that now seems less likely, crypto history is replete with unexpected downturns that have happened very fast.
Also Read: Can Ethereum Overtake Bitcoin in Q4? Key Signals Explained