Vitalik Buterin Supports ZKsync: What This Means for Layer 2 Scaling

Vitalik Buterin’s Endorsement Sparks ZKsync Momentum

In the final months of 2025, Vitalik Buterin, one of Ethereum’s founders, gave public support to ZKsync, describing its progress as both “undervalued and significant.” This endorsement came at the same time as the debut of ZKsync’s Atlas upgrade, which enabled the network to process up to 15,000 transactions per second and reduced transaction costs to as little as $0.0001. Buterin’s backing not only brought ZKsync into the spotlight but also accelerated its adoption by major institutions, including Deutsche Bank and Sony, who began utilizing the platform for cross-chain settlements and digital rights management. For those evaluating ZKsync’s future, this moment represents a crucial turning point as Ethereum’s Layer 2 ecosystem continues to evolve.

ZKsync’s Innovations and Development Path

ZKsync stands out for its implementation of zero-knowledge rollups, a technology that consolidates multiple transactions into cryptographic proofs. This approach significantly reduces the computational burden on Ethereum’s main chain while maintaining security and decentralization. The platform’s compatibility with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) further sets it apart, allowing developers to integrate their projects with minimal friction and cost.

The Atlas upgrade, highlighted by Buterin, showcased ZKsync’s scalability by reaching 15,000 transactions per second with near-instant block confirmations. This leap in performance was made possible by a RISC-V-based zkVM and improved liquidity sharing between Ethereum’s mainnet and its Layer 2, effectively addressing key scalability challenges. Looking forward, the upcoming Fusaka upgrade, planned for December 3, 2025, aims to double throughput to 30,000 transactions per second. This aligns with ZKsync’s roadmap for 2025–2026, which targets full EVM equivalence at the bytecode level.

Developer experience is also a priority for ZKsync, with the introduction of Boojum 2.0 and BoojumOS to create a development environment closely resembling Ethereum’s mainnet. The platform is also working to enhance interoperability between public and private zero-knowledge chains, a feature that is especially attractive to enterprise users. These advancements position ZKsync as a strong contender among Ethereum’s Layer 2 solutions, such as Polygon zkEVM and StarkNet, while maintaining a strong focus on user experience through smart wallet SDKs and Smart Sign-On (SSO) features.

Competitive Environment and Market Trends

ZKsync operates in a highly competitive Layer 2 landscape, contending with projects like Taiko, Scroll, and StarkNet. StarkNet, for example, leverages STARK proofs to deliver robust security without the need for a trusted setup, while Polygon zkEVM is recognized for its bytecode-level EVM compatibility. Despite the crowded field, ZKsync’s technical achievements and partnerships with major institutions give it a distinct advantage. Notably, Goldman Sachs and Deutsche Bank have adopted ZKsync for compliance and scalability needs, reflecting growing confidence in its infrastructure.

The broader market for zero-knowledge proof technology is expected to reach $7.59 billion by 2033, fueled by applications in DeFi, NFTs, and enterprise solutions. ZKsync’s developer activity surged by 230% in late 2025, and its focus on enterprise-grade features suggests it is well-positioned to capture a significant portion of this expanding market. However, maintaining this trajectory will require ongoing innovation, especially as rivals like Scroll and StarkNet continue to advance.

Investment Outlook: Price Forecasts and Potential Risks

ZKsync’s native token, ZK, experienced a 50% price increase following Buterin’s endorsement, with the platform’s total value locked (TVL) reaching $3.5 billion by the end of 2025. Price predictions for 2025–2026 vary, with optimistic estimates ranging from $0.40 to $0.60, while more conservative forecasts suggest values between $0.10 and $0.15. These projections reflect the inherent volatility of the cryptocurrency market and uncertainties related to Ethereum’s ongoing infrastructure upgrades, such as possible native sharding or new EIPs.

For long-term investors, ZKsync’s growing institutional adoption and technical progress help offset some risks. Partnerships with organizations like Crypto.com (via Cronos) and Abstract (Pudgy Penguins) point to a diverse and resilient ecosystem, less dependent on any single market segment. Nonetheless, ZKsync faces ongoing challenges, including the need to sustain developer interest and remain competitive among Ethereum’s expanding Layer 2 offerings.

Final Thoughts: ZKsync’s Role in Ethereum’s Next Chapter

Vitalik Buterin’s support highlights ZKsync’s significance in Ethereum’s journey toward greater scalability. With a clear development roadmap, increasing institutional engagement, and a vibrant developer community, ZKsync is well-placed to benefit from the growing zero-knowledge proof market. While competition remains intense, the platform’s emphasis on performance, interoperability, and user-centric features makes it a compelling option. For investors, the challenge lies in balancing optimism about ZKsync’s technological direction with caution regarding market fluctuations and competitive pressures. As Ethereum’s infrastructure continues to mature, ZKsync’s adaptability and commitment to innovation will be key to its long-term success.