The Ethereum Foundation deposited approximately 45,034 ETH worth $93 million on Thursday, completing a staking target it announced in February. The total staked position now sits at roughly 69,500 ETH ($143 million), effectively reaching the planned 70,000 ETH commitment.

The deposit was executed in uniform chunks of 2,047 ETH, each worth approximately $4.23 million, sent from the foundation's treasury multisig to the Beacon Chain deposit contract. This batch covered the remaining balance in one shot after weeks of incremental deposits that began with a 2,016 ETH initial stake in February.

Sustainable Treasury Model

At current staking rates, the position generates an estimated $3.9 million to $5.4 million annually based on the 2.7% to 3.8% APY range typical for institutional stakers. While modest compared to the foundation's roughly $100 million annual operating expenses, the yield converts a dormant treasury into a productive one without selling ETH.

The shift matters because the foundation previously relied on ETH sales to fund operations, a practice that drew persistent community criticism for creating sell pressure. Staking offers a path to self-sustaining income without market impact.

What Comes Next

According to Arkham data, the foundation still holds over 100,000 unstaked ETH in its $270.9 million portfolio across 14 addresses. Whether it expands the staking program beyond the initial target or holds the remainder as liquid reserves has not been announced. ETH traded at $2,059 at the time of the deposits.