This Little-Known Cryptocurrency Is Up 217% for the Year. But Is It a Buy?
2026-09-26 23:19
•Dominic Basulto •The Motley Fool
• • Axe Cap view
Zcash’s Rally: Momentum or Mirage for Investors?
A 217% surge in Zcash this year tempts traders, but privacy coin risks loom large.
Zcash’s impressive 217% run-up in 2024 has caught many by surprise, especially its 90% boost in just the last month. This move is tied to both growing interest in privacy-focused cryptocurrencies and the debut of Grayscale’s spot Zcash ETF, which drew over $500 million from investors thirsty for exposure. Yet, history is a harsh teacher here: since its 2016 launch, Zcash remains down 75%, showing extended periods of price stagnation. South African investors should note the regulatory headwinds privacy coins face globally, which could translate into volatility in USD/ZAR as capital swings between perceived risk-on and risk-off assets. Those with a short-term appetite might find a tradeable momentum story, but any hopes for a steady cornerstone investment seem premature. If global oversight toughens or speculative interest fades, this volatility could quickly reverse. this is just our opinion and not financial advice
Avoid for long-term portfolios; if tempted, treat Zcash as a high-risk trading play only. Monitor USD/ZAR for currency moves tied to crypto market sentiment.
- Zcash
- USD/ZAR
- Regulatory clampdowns on privacy coins
- Sudden loss of momentum leading to sharp price declines
5/10
Zcash has surged 217% this year and 90% in the past month, driven by growing interest in privacy coins and the launch of Grayscale's spot Zcash ETF which attracted over $500 million. However, the coin remains down 75% since its 2016 launch and has flatlined for most of its existence. While short-term momentum traders may find opportunity, long-term investors should be cautious given its poor historical performance and regulatory concerns surrounding privacy coins.
Our take is based on reporting first published by The Motley Fool.