Ethereum’s validator exit queue has surged to its highest level since January 2024, with approximately 519,000 ETH ($1.92 billion) awaiting withdrawal. Processing delays now exceed nine days due to the backlog—the most substantial accumulation observed in 18 months.
Simultaneously, entry queues have swelled to approximately 357,000 ETH ($1.3 billion), causing admission delays surpassing six days for the first time since April 2024. This surge partly stems from heightened institutional interest, driven by recent SEC regulatory clarifications regarding staking practices.
Despite the significant exit activity, the network continues functioning without major disruptions. The total validator count has increased by 54,000 since late May, reaching a record high of nearly 1.1 million participants, underscoring sustained network growth amid the queue congestion.