Ethereum has officially completed its Fusaka upgrade, activating the update on Wednesday, December 3. The release introduces a series of execution-layer refinements designed to boost client performance and prepare the network for larger improvements scheduled for 2026.
The upgrade went live at slot 13,164,544, marking another steady step in Ethereum’s ongoing upgrade roadmap.
Fusaka follows Ethereum’s twice-a-year update cycle and delivers a collection of stability and efficiency improvements across multiple client teams. While not as high-profile as past upgrades such as Dencun or Shanghai, Fusaka plays a key role in preserving execution-layer compatibility across the ecosystem.
What Fusaka Delivers
Fusaka introduces several technical adjustments meant to improve client alignment and ensure reliable network performance. These updates include:
- Tweaks to opcode edge-case handling
- Small optimizations in block validation processes
- General client performance improvements
- Foundational changes are being prepared for future EIPs planned for 2026
The upgrade intentionally focuses on stability over major feature additions.
Network Conditions Remain Steady After Activation
Shortly after the upgrade, Ethereum’s validator set continued functioning normally.
- Active validators: 995,908
- ETH staked: 35.63 million
- Average validator balance: 35.84 ETH
- Joining / Exiting (30 days): 643K / 1,382K ETH
Validator participation remained strong during the first epoch following Fusaka, and block proposals proceeded without disruption.
The staking landscape continues to be led by Lido, Binance, Coinbase, ether.fi, and Figment, with Rocket Pool, Kiln, StakeWise, and numerous smaller operators supporting network decentralization. A sizable number of “Unknown” validators also highlights the permissionless nature of Ethereum staking.
ETH Price Climbs Ahead of Upgrade
ETH traded above $3,150 following the upgrade, extending its recent recovery trend. The market appeared to anticipate a smooth activation, with ETH reclaiming the key $3,000 level and gaining renewed bullish momentum.
An experienced fintech marketer, now diving into Web3, crypto markets, and decentralized systems. Breaking down complex blockchain developments for accessible understanding.
