The new year opening saw Ethereum violently surge past the $3000 mark. At first glance, it seems like a good signal, but a closer look at the market reveals some issues.

It shot up only to be hammered back down within minutes, with obvious selling pressure. Especially within the Ethereum ecosystem, large traders are frequently active, clearly testing the market's capacity to absorb buy-in. This indicates that the $3000 level has become a focal point of contention between bulls and bears—neither side wants to give in easily.

The current trend is as follows: the price oscillates around 2970, with resistance in the $3000-3030 zone, and strong support at 2890-2900. The upcoming market movement is likely to revolve around these two key areas.

**If breaking upward**: After stabilizing above 3000 and increasing volume, a valid breakout above the previous high of 3060 could open the upside. If you want to participate, wait for confirmation of stabilization before entering—don't chase the high. Risk management is crucial; if it falls below 3000, consider exiting.

**If pulling back downward**: A return to support around 2890 should show signs of stopping the decline. This is a defensive line for bulls and could be a low-entry opportunity for us. Similarly, if support fails (e.g., falling below 2870), there's no need to fight it—set stop-loss orders properly.

Currently, market sentiment is very volatile—sometimes bullish, sometimes bearish. The safest approach is to observe more and operate less near key levels, letting the market decide the direction. Wait for clear breakout or breakdown signals before confidently following. If the trend isn't clear in the short term, small positions for testing are more appropriate—enter and exit quickly to protect capital above all else.

The first wave of the 2026 market has already arrived. Whether it's an opportunity or a trap depends on who can see through it more clearly.