Analyst and former exchange executive Arthur Hayes stirred significant market momentum by predicting that Zcash (ZEC) could eventually reach $10,000. Following that forecast, ZEC surged over 30% in 24 hours, climbing from roughly $272 to above $355, and sparked renewed investor interest in the privacy-focused token.
Market Reaction and Investor Interest
Hayes’ influence in the crypto space is well-known, and his bold outlook appears to have triggered a wave of Fear-Of-Missing-Out (FOMO) among retail traders. On-chain and derivatives data show open interest in ZEC futures spiked, while institutional accumulation of ZEC rose sharply—both signals that momentum traders are acting fast.
Analyst Caution and Short-Term Outlook
However, analysts caution that such rapid gains may carry heightened risk. With the Relative Strength Index (RSI) and other momentum indicators reaching extreme levels, a corrective phase may follow if the token fails to break and hold above key resistance. In the short term, traders will pay attention to support near $281 – $290.
Structural Catalysts and Regulatory Landscape
Beyond the hype, Zcash is also benefiting from structural catalysts. Its optional privacy architecture—allowing both shielded and transparent transactions via zk-SNARKs—has positioned it uniquely amid growing regulatory scrutiny of privacy coins. Meanwhile, institutional interest and listing momentum are reinforcing the narrative of ZEC as more than a meme asset.
Long-Term Prospects and Investor Caution
That said, the long-term path to $10,000 remains speculative. Realizing such a target would likely require sustained institutional adoption, favorable regulatory clarity, and a broader altcoin bull market. Investors should remain cautious of the blurred line between narrative-driven rallies and fundamental value.