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29 Apr 2026, 22:50

Grayscale Zcash ETF Average Daily Volume Doubles Since February: Surge Signals Growing Privacy Blockchain Demand

BitcoinWorld Grayscale Zcash ETF Average Daily Volume Doubles Since February: Surge Signals Growing Privacy Blockchain Demand In a significant development for the cryptocurrency investment landscape, the Grayscale Zcash ETF average daily volume has doubled since February, reaching approximately $1.7 million in April. This surge, reported by The Block, marks a notable recovery in trading activity for the ZEC spot ETF, even as volumes remain below the peaks seen in late 2023. The increase underscores a growing investor appetite for privacy-focused digital assets and the expanding role of regulated investment vehicles in the crypto market. Grayscale Zcash ETF Volume Surge: A Detailed Breakdown The Grayscale Zcash ETF average daily volume in April hit $1.7 million, more than double the $800,000 average recorded in February. This upward trajectory began in January, with steady month-over-month gains. While the current figure is still lower than the volumes observed in November and December 2023—which averaged over $3 million—the consistent growth signals renewed interest among institutional and retail investors. The ETF, which trades under the ticker ZEC, provides exposure to Zcash without requiring direct ownership or wallet management. Key factors driving this volume increase include: Renewed market confidence in privacy blockchain technology. Institutional adoption of regulated crypto products. Positive sentiment around Zcash’s network upgrades and privacy features. The Grayscale Zcash ETF volume surge is particularly noteworthy because it reflects a broader trend: investors are seeking secure, compliant ways to gain exposure to privacy coins. Unlike many other crypto ETFs, the ZEC fund tracks a privacy-centric asset, which adds a layer of complexity for regulatory compliance. Nevertheless, the doubling volume suggests that market participants are increasingly comfortable with this niche. Privacy Blockchain Use Cases Expand as Shielded Supply Grows Alongside the ETF volume growth, The Block report highlighted a structural increase in privacy blockchain use cases. Specifically, the proportion of Zcash’s shielded supply—ZEC tokens with privacy features enabled—has grown to approximately 30% of its circulating supply. This is a critical metric because shielded transactions offer enhanced anonymity, making Zcash one of the few cryptocurrencies that can provide true financial privacy. The rise in shielded supply indicates that more users are actively employing Zcash’s privacy features, rather than holding the token solely for speculation. This trend aligns with growing demand for confidential transactions in sectors like: Supply chain management where sensitive data requires protection. Decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms seeking privacy layers. Enterprise use cases that demand auditability without transparency. The Grayscale Zcash ETF average daily volume doubling since February is therefore not an isolated event. It correlates with the network’s increasing utility. As shielded supply grows, the value proposition of Zcash strengthens, attracting more investors to the ETF as a convenient entry point. Expert Insights: Why Privacy Blockchain Demand Is Rising Industry analysts attribute the Grayscale Zcash ETF volume surge to several converging factors. First, regulatory clarity around privacy coins has improved in key markets. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has not classified Zcash as a security, reducing legal uncertainty. Second, the broader crypto market’s recovery from the 2022 downturn has revived risk appetite. Third, privacy blockchain use cases are gaining traction in enterprise environments, where data confidentiality is paramount. One analyst from a leading crypto research firm noted, ‘The doubling of Grayscale Zcash ETF volume since February reflects a maturing market. Investors are no longer just buying Bitcoin and Ethereum. They are diversifying into niche assets like Zcash that offer unique technological advantages.’ This perspective underscores the ETF’s role as a bridge between traditional finance and the privacy blockchain ecosystem. Moreover, the increase in shielded supply—now at 30% of circulating ZEC—demonstrates that the network’s core privacy function is being utilized. This is a positive signal for long-term value, as it reduces the token’s velocity and encourages holding. Timeline: Grayscale Zcash ETF Performance Since Launch To fully appreciate the Grayscale Zcash ETF average daily volume doubling since February, it is helpful to review the product’s history. Grayscale launched the ZEC trust in 2017, offering accredited investors exposure to Zcash. In 2021, the trust converted to an ETF, making it accessible to a broader investor base. Initially, trading volumes were modest, averaging under $500,000 per day. However, the 2023 crypto bull run saw volumes spike to over $3 million in November and December. The subsequent decline in early 2024 was expected, as the market corrected. Yet the recovery since January—culminating in the April volume of $1.7 million—indicates a strong underlying demand. The following table summarizes the average daily volume trends: Month Average Daily Volume Change from Previous Month November 2023 $3.2 million +45% December 2023 $3.0 million -6% January 2024 $1.0 million -67% February 2024 $0.8 million -20% March 2024 $1.2 million +50% April 2024 $1.7 million +42% This data clearly shows the Grayscale Zcash ETF average daily volume doubling since February, with a consistent upward trend from March onward. Impact on the Broader Crypto ETF Market The Grayscale Zcash ETF volume surge has implications beyond Zcash itself. It signals that investors are willing to explore ETFs beyond the dominant Bitcoin and Ethereum products. This diversification is healthy for the crypto ETF market, which has historically been concentrated in a few assets. As more privacy blockchain use cases emerge, the demand for regulated exposure to these assets is likely to grow. Furthermore, the doubling volume since February may encourage other asset managers to launch similar products. For instance, funds tracking privacy coins like Monero or Dash could see increased interest. However, regulatory hurdles remain, as privacy coins face scrutiny from anti-money laundering (AML) authorities. The Grayscale Zcash ETF’s success suggests that compliance-focused structures can overcome these challenges. Conclusion The Grayscale Zcash ETF average daily volume doubling since February to $1.7 million in April marks a pivotal moment for privacy blockchain investments. This growth, coupled with the expansion of Zcash’s shielded supply to 30% of circulating tokens, highlights a structural shift in how investors and users engage with privacy-focused cryptocurrencies. As the market matures, the Grayscale Zcash ETF serves as a barometer for institutional confidence in this niche. The trend is clear: demand for regulated, compliant exposure to privacy assets is rising, and the Grayscale Zcash ETF is at the forefront of this movement. FAQs Q1: What is the Grayscale Zcash ETF? The Grayscale Zcash ETF is a regulated investment product that tracks the price of Zcash (ZEC). It allows investors to gain exposure to Zcash without directly buying or storing the cryptocurrency. The ETF trades on OTC markets under the ticker ZEC. Q2: Why did the Grayscale Zcash ETF average daily volume double since February? The volume doubled due to renewed investor interest in privacy blockchain technology, improved market conditions, and growing adoption of Zcash’s privacy features. The ETF’s regulated structure also attracts institutional investors seeking compliant exposure. Q3: What is Zcash’s shielded supply, and why does it matter? Shielded supply refers to the portion of Zcash’s circulating tokens that have privacy features enabled. As of April, this reached 30% of the total supply. It matters because it indicates actual use of Zcash’s privacy function, not just speculative holding. Q4: How does the Grayscale Zcash ETF compare to other crypto ETFs? Unlike Bitcoin or Ethereum ETFs, the Grayscale Zcash ETF focuses on a privacy-centric asset. Its trading volume is smaller but growing faster in percentage terms. It offers diversification for investors interested in privacy blockchain use cases. Q5: Is the Grayscale Zcash ETF a good investment? Investment decisions depend on individual risk tolerance and market outlook. The ETF provides regulated exposure to Zcash, which has unique privacy features. However, like all crypto investments, it carries volatility and regulatory risks. This post Grayscale Zcash ETF Average Daily Volume Doubles Since February: Surge Signals Growing Privacy Blockchain Demand first appeared on BitcoinWorld .

29 Apr 2026, 21:59

Meta Enables USDC Payouts for Creators on Solana & Polygon

Meta has started offering select creators the option to receive payouts in USDC through crypto wallets, signaling a renewed push into digital payments. The move allows transactions across the Solana and Polygon ecosystems, reflecting growing demand for faster and borderless payment systems. Consequently, the company positions itself at the intersection of social media and financial technology, where creators increasingly seek flexible payment options. Expanding Payment Flexibility for Creators Meta aims to streamline payouts for its global creator base by integrating stablecoin options alongside traditional methods. Additionally, creators can connect widely used wallets such as MetaMask, Phantom, and Binance wallets to receive funds. This approach reduces reliance on conventional banking systems, especially in regions with limited financial infrastructure. Moreover, the company relies on Stripe as its payments partner to manage transactions and compliance requirements. Stripe also provides transaction records, which creators can use for financial reporting and tax purposes. Hence, Meta ensures transparency while adapting to evolving regulatory standards in digital finance. However, users must carefully select compatible wallet addresses that support USDC on supported networks. Any mismatch could lead to irreversible loss of funds. Therefore, Meta emphasizes user responsibility in securing wallet credentials and managing transactions safely. Strategic Shift From Past Crypto Efforts This rollout highlights a notable shift from Meta’s earlier blockchain ambitions. The company previously launched Libra, later rebranded as Diem, before shutting it down due to regulatory challenges. Now, Meta adopts a more pragmatic strategy by leveraging existing stablecoins instead of building its own currency. Significantly, this shift aligns with broader industry trends following regulatory developments like the GENIUS Act. Companies increasingly explore stablecoins as efficient payment tools rather than speculative assets. Besides, Meta’s vast ecosystem, including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, offers a massive distribution network for such financial services. This scale could accelerate stablecoin adoption among everyday users.

29 Apr 2026, 20:42

Visa Expands Stablecoin Pilot With Base, Polygon, Canton, Arc, and Tempo as Run Rate Hits $7B

Visa has expanded its push into blockchain-based payments by integrating additional networks into its stablecoin settlement program. The move signals a clear shift toward mainstream adoption of onchain finance. Moreover, it highlights how traditional payment giants now embrace blockchain infrastructure to improve speed and efficiency. The expansion also reflects rising demand for stablecoin transactions across global markets. Consequently, Visa positions itself at the center of a rapidly evolving financial system that blends conventional rails with decentralized technology. Expanding the Multi-Chain Ecosystem Visa has added five new blockchains to its settlement pilot, broadening its multi-chain capabilities. These include Arc, Base, Canton, Polygon, and Tempo. Additionally, the company already supports Avalanche, Ethereum, Solana, and Stellar. This expansion brings the total to nine integrated networks. Besides increasing flexibility, this approach allows partners to select networks that match their operational needs. Developers and institutions now access diverse infrastructure options without leaving Visa’s ecosystem. Hence, the company simplifies a fragmented blockchain landscape. The shift toward multi-chain functionality mirrors broader industry trends. Liquidity and user activity now spread across multiple networks instead of concentrating on one chain. Consequently, payment providers must adapt to remain competitive. Growth Signals Strong Institutional Demand Visa’s stablecoin settlement pilot has grown rapidly in recent months. The program now operates at a $7 billion annualized run rate. Significantly, that figure represents a 50% increase compared to the previous quarter. This growth shows rising confidence from financial institutions and fintech companies. Additionally, stablecoins continue gaining traction as a practical tool for global payments. They offer faster settlement times and lower transaction costs than traditional systems. Moreover, Visa has expanded its stablecoin initiatives across several regions. These include Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Central Europe, Middle East, and Africa. Consequently, the company strengthens its global footprint in digital payments innovation. Bridging Traditional Finance and Blockchain Visa continues to position itself as a bridge between traditional finance and blockchain systems. The company aims to deliver reliability, security, and scalability across both environments. Additionally, it supports over 130 stablecoin-linked card programs worldwide. The integration of multiple blockchains also improves interoperability. Partners can move liquidity across ecosystems more efficiently. Hence, businesses gain more control over how they manage digital assets.

29 Apr 2026, 20:31

Meta's Former Blockchain Lead Makes Stunning $1 Million Bitcoin (BTC) Price Prediction

Lightspark CEO and co-founder David Marcus is standing by an ultra-bullish, seven-figure price target for Bitcoin.

29 Apr 2026, 19:00

DeFi Deleveraging Hits AAVE – Analyst Explains Why Borrowing Demand Falls Off A Cliff

Aave entered April 2026 as DeFi’s largest lending protocol. By mid-month, it was managing the fallout from one of the most damaging exploits in its history — and the on-chain data is now revealing just how deeply the event disrupted the protocol’s core activity. Related Reading: Crypto Traders Just Moved $100 Billion In Gold Volume: Find Out What Is Driving The Rush The incident began at Kelp DAO, where attackers exploited a $293 million vulnerability and used the stolen tokens as collateral on Aave V3. Aave’s smart contracts were never breached — the protocol functioned exactly as designed. However, it could not defend the integrity of the assets it accepted. Fraudulent collateral entered the system. Borrowers used it to take out real assets, and the resulting bad debt triggered a confidence crisis that drove billions in deposits toward the exit within days. A CryptoQuant report tracking Aave V3 activity in the aftermath has now quantified the impact of that crisis on the protocol’s borrowing market. The data tells a two-chapter story. Borrowing rates across USDT, USDC, and WETH spiked sharply. A reflexive response to sudden liquidity tightening as participants scrambled to adjust positions. Then, almost as quickly, borrowing activity collapsed toward near-zero levels. That second chapter is the more significant one. Rate spikes during a crisis are expected. The near-complete cessation of borrowing that followed is the signal that requires examination. Because it reflects not just liquidity stress, but a fundamental shift in participant behavior. The Rate Spike Was the Alarm. The Silence That Followed Is the Story The CryptoQuant report places the borrowing collapse in a framework that distinguishes shock response from structural breakdown. Rate spikes during liquidity crises are mechanical — when available capital tightens abruptly, the price of borrowing rises immediately as participants compete for shrinking supply. That is what happened in the immediate aftermath of the Kelp DAO exploit. It is expected, it is temporary, and it does not by itself indicate lasting damage. What followed is less routine. Rather than recovering as rates normalized, borrow event activity across Aave V3 collapsed toward near-zero — a response that reflects participants choosing to step back entirely rather than re-engage once the initial stress passed. Capital that was previously active in Aave’s lending markets has moved into defensive positioning. The protocol’s mechanics are intact. The participants who used them have temporarily left. The cross-market nature of the contraction makes the signal particularly difficult to dismiss. Stablecoin borrowing weakness reflects reduced appetite for leveraged directional exposure — traders unwilling to borrow against positions. WETH activity falling simultaneously points to the unwinding of more sophisticated strategies: collateral recycling, basis trades, and the layered DeFi positions that require sustained confidence in the underlying protocol to maintain. When both retreat at once, the signal is systemic rather than isolated. The CryptoQuant assessment is precise about what recovery looks like from here. Borrow event activity returning alongside normalized rates would signal the end of capital preservation mode and the beginning of genuine redeployment. Until that combination appears, the data describes a protocol that has survived the shock structurally but has yet to regain the participant confidence that makes it functionally whole. Related Reading: Binance Ethereum Supply Hits 2020 Levels While Staking Locks A Third: Repricing Ahead? AAVE Tests Key Support After Prolonged Downtrend AAVE is trading near $98 on the weekly chart, attempting to stabilize after a sustained decline from the $350–$380 highs set earlier in the cycle. The structure is clearly bearish on higher timeframes: a sequence of lower highs and lower lows has defined price action for months, with each rally failing beneath declining moving averages. The recent drop into the $85–$95 zone marks a critical support test. This area aligns with prior consolidation from late 2023 and early 2024, making it a historically relevant demand region. The current bounce is technically constructive, but it remains corrective in nature until proven otherwise. Related Reading: XRP’s Recovery Is Real, But The Risk Appetite Behind It Is Still Broken – Analyst All major moving averages — 50-week, 100-week, and 200-week — are positioned above price and sloping downward. This creates a stacked resistance structure between roughly $130 and $200, where previous breakdowns occurred. Any recovery attempt will need to reclaim that range to shift the broader trend. Volume behavior reinforces caution. The sharp selloff phases were accompanied by elevated volume, indicating strong distribution, while the recent rebound has developed on lighter participation. For now, AAVE is attempting to build a base. Holding above $85 keeps the structure intact. Losing it would likely open the path toward deeper downside. Featured image from ChatGPT, chart from TradingView.com

29 Apr 2026, 18:38

Visa Scales Stablecoin Rails to Nine Networks as Partners Cite Real-World Demand

Visa announced April 29 that its global stablecoin settlement pilot has reached a $7 billion annualized run rate, up 50% quarter over quarter, and now supports nine blockchains after adding Arc, Base, Canton, Polygon, and Tempo. Key Takeaways: Visa’s stablecoin settlement pilot reached a $7 billion annualized run rate in April 2026, up 50% from