Zcash Latest Updates: BCH Experiences ZEC-Like Spike—Are Technical Improvements or Market Excitement Driving the Rise?

Bitcoin Cash (BCH) has climbed nearly 13% over the past day, now trading close to $538 after surpassing its yearly resistance, propelled by both roadmap enhancements and market forces reminiscent of recent trends in

(ZEC). The coin has reclaimed a spot among the top 12 cryptocurrencies by market cap, overtaking , with on-chain data hinting that its upward momentum could persist. toward reducing block times from 10 minutes to just 2 by 2026, a change that may make BCH more appealing for everyday payments. In addition, seeks to broaden smart contract functionality, positioning as a cost-effective choice for DeFi applications.

This rally has drawn parallels to ZEC’s recent surge, which saw a 30% weekly increase fueled by institutional support and strategic buying from major investors. For example,

, a company associated with the Winklevoss twins, has accumulated 233,644 ZEC (valued at roughly $150 million), reflecting strong interest in privacy-oriented coins. Likewise, BCH’s price spike seems to have attracted new retail participants, though blockchain metrics urge caution. and liquidity remains limited, with leading traders opting to exit rather than build positions. This suggests a possible distribution phase, where retail excitement is fueling the rally more than sustained institutional or whale involvement.

Large holders’ actions in the ZEC market have also shaped overall market sentiment.

(0x7b7), previously liquidated for $97 million, has opened a ZEC short worth $19 million, with $2.4 million in unrealized profits. This same entity, linked to platforms such as Roobet and Stake.com, has demonstrated high-risk strategies, including a $7 million transfer to Hyperliquid . These moves underscore how strategies by major players in one crypto asset can influence others across the market.

BCH could maintain its rally. The recent breakout above significant resistance has sparked optimism, with analysts focusing on the $545–$550 zone as pivotal for a move toward $580. could pave the way for higher targets, such as $684 and above. Meanwhile, ZEC faces its own challenges, as momentum indicators like On-Balance Volume (OBV) and Chaikin Money Flow (CMF) present mixed readings. Although ZEC has "barely" managed to hold steady during broader market declines, will depend on resolving bearish divergences in OBV and RSI.

Looking forward, upgrades to Bitcoin Cash’s roadmap and ZEC’s growing institutional interest could drive renewed attention to cryptocurrencies focused on privacy and utility. Still, investors should be wary, as low liquidity and volatile conditions present significant risks.

hinges on whether the current uptrend is underpinned by real improvements or simply short-lived retail speculation.