Zcash's Soaring Privacy Features Ignite Debate Between Bulls and Bears as Value Reaches $332

Zcash (ZEC) has recently soared to unprecedented levels, with its value increasing by more than 750% over the past quarter and its market cap approaching $4 billion. After a prolonged period of inactivity, this privacy-centric digital asset has captured renewed attention from investors, fueled by bold forecasts from prominent industry leaders and shifting market conditions. Arthur Hayes, the former CEO of BitMEX, reignited enthusiasm by predicting

for , while Barry Silbert of Digital Currency Group intensified the buzz with .

According to the latest figures, ZEC reached $332.52, marking a 20.8% increase in just one day. This surge follows months of upward momentum, driven by speculative excitement and compelling narratives. Hayes compared ZEC’s current rise to the formative years of

and , a perspective that has resonated with many traders—especially as ZEC’s privacy features, which obscure transaction details, gain popularity. Meanwhile, Silbert pointed out that BlackRock’s hesitation to introduce a ZEC ETF could mean the asset is undervalued, hinting that the market might be missing its long-term promise.

Investor sentiment is sharply divided. The

dropped to 25, its lowest in three months, signaling significant bearishness. Still, some technical analysts suggest this could represent a prime buying window. Clifton FX identified an ascending triangle on ZEC’s 8-hour chart, forecasting a possible 100–150% rally if resistance is breached. On the other hand, critics such as DeFi analyst Ignas DeFi warn of a “reflexive loop” where fear of missing out drives unsustainable buying, potentially leaving latecomers vulnerable as “exit liquidity.”

Underlying fundamentals are also at play. Currently, 27.5% of ZEC’s supply is shielded, which encourages users to hold their tokens off exchanges and reduces selling pressure. Open interest in ZEC futures has jumped 22% in the past day to $303 million, outpacing other leading cryptocurrencies. However, volatility remains a significant risk. A recent three-sigma liquidation event wiped out $600 million in crypto futures, highlighting the dangers of leveraged trading.

Looking forward, ZEC’s future depends on sustaining its current momentum. The $281.35 support level—midway between $270.95 and $292.22—could prove pivotal for price stability. Experts remain divided: some dismiss ZEC as a speculative asset lacking real value, while others see it as a rising privacy-focused alternative in an era increasingly wary of surveillance capitalism. With institutional interest in

and ETFs overshadowing other cryptocurrencies, ZEC’s ability to attract retail investors may determine its next chapter.

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