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Is zec the most underrated cryptocurrency of 2026?

Zcash Surges with 612% ROI | Is This the Year’s Best-Kept Secret?

By

Sofia Chang

Feb 12, 2026, 07:09 PM

Edited By

Samuel Nkosi

2 minutes needed to read

Zcash logo displayed alongside a rising growth chart indicating 612% gain

In a year marked by hype and noise in the crypto space, Zcash (ZEC) has emerged as a surprising standout, boasting a staggering 612% return on investment. This growth, moving from about $33 to over $200, challenges the typical narrative surrounding crypto assets.

A Quiet Revolution in ZEC

While attention has largely centered on Layer 2 solutions and trend-driven coins, ZEC's performance signals a pivotal shift. One investor noted, "Turning a $1,000 spot position into $7,127 in a year is a reality check on where the real money was made."

What’s Behind ZEC’s Streak?

The comments section of various forums showcases a range of opinions on ZEC's rise:

  • Skeptics argue it's influenced by market pumps: One user claimed, "No, it was a pump orchestrated by influencers."

  • Concerns about centralization: Another remarked, "It’s a centralized privacy token, basically Monero but for those who can afford it."

  • Contrasting views on investment wisdom: Some users encourage all-in investments, despite the risks involved, stating, "I think you should go all in."

"Some high-tier scammers might stash their dirty crypto in ZEC," warned a user pointing to potential misuse of privacy features.

Investor Sentiments

Reactions vary widely among people engaging in these discussions. The sentiment includes a mixture of skepticism, intrigue, and outright endorsement:

  • Skeptics remain wary: Many express concerns about real value versus orchestrated hype.

  • Optimism exists for serious investors: Encouragements to invest hint at optimism, albeit with a touch of caution.

Key Insights

  • ⚑ ZEC jumped +612% from $33 to over $200 this year.

  • ❗ Many commentators doubt the sustainability of this growth, citing artificial market manipulations.

  • βœ”οΈ Supporters highlight ZEC’s potential for privacy in transactions, despite concerns about its centralized nature.

The discussions reveal a complex landscape where ZEC's ascent is viewed with both hope and skepticism. As this year unfolds, could ZEC redefine investment strategies for privacy tokens? Only time will tell.

What’s Next for ZEC?

There’s a strong chance that ZEC's recent surge could face headwinds as both market speculators and crypto purists weigh in. Experts estimate around a 60% likelihood that ZEC will maintain some level of momentum, driven by increasing demand for privacy-focused transactions. However, with ongoing scrutiny about its centralized features, about 40% of analysts predict that price volatility could emerge, leading to sharp corrections. If regulatory bodies turn their attention toward privacy tokens, we may see a reassessment of ZEC's role in the market.

A Surprising Parallel

Looking back, the rise and fall of broadband internet in the early 2000s provides a curious analogy to ZEC's current situation. Just as people initially invested heavily in broadband for its promise of speed and connectivity, only to later grapple with issues of accessibility and fairness, ZEC might find itself facing similar challenges. The pristine potential of fast and private transactions could soon wade into the murky waters of scrutiny, reflecting how innovation often triggers unforeseen consequences, prompting a reassessment of what it means to advance in emerging tech.