What Crypto Bear Market? All of These Cryptocurrencies Have Skyrocketed in Value This Year
Despite a tough year for crypto, several coins have surged. Hyperliquid (HYPE) is up 210% with a $20B market cap, attracting U.S. regulatory interest. Zcash (ZEC) rose 128%, with a new ETF drawing $500M. NEAR Protocol (NEAR) gained 240% focusing on AI, while Venice Token (VVV) soared 1,300% with its privacy-focused AI platform.
How this was made

The 30-second read
Why it matters
New ETF products provide fresh channels for institutional and retail capital, potentially driving further price appreciation for the listed tokens.
Market read
First‑time spot ETF launches for HYPE and ZEC create new investment avenues, modestly relevant for crypto‑focused traders.
What to watch
Potential SEC scrutiny of crypto ETFs could dampen inflows.
Background
The article lists several cryptocurrencies that have outperformed in 2026, highlighting new spot ETF launches for Hyperliquid and Zcash.
Ticker impact
Hyperliquid's native HYPE token surged 210% YTD and its spot ETF launch expands investor access.
likely upward pressure as new ETF attracts capital
ETF launch is a fresh catalyst for a rapidly appreciating token.
Zcash (ZEC) rose 128% YTD after Grayscale launched the first spot ZEC ETF, pulling $500M in 30 days.
likely upward pressure from institutional demand
First spot ETF for ZEC is a new market development.
NEAR Protocol gained 240% YTD as it pivots to AI-agent economy, highlighted as a top performer.
potential upside if AI narrative persists
Performance driven by narrative, no concrete new catalyst.
Venice Token (VVV) surged 1,300% YTD, touted as the top-performing crypto.
short‑term upside possible, high volatility
Rally is noted but no new event beyond price move.
Market effects
Spot crypto ETFs may broaden crypto exposure across traditional brokerage platforms.
U.S. investors gain direct access to previously offshore‑only tokens.
ETF launches could set precedent for other crypto assets worldwide.
Counterpoint
Rapid price gains may be unsustainable; regulatory risk remains high.
Key entities
- companyHyperliquid
Decentralized exchange offering spot and perpetual futures.
- companyGrayscale
Digital asset investment firm that launched the first spot ZEC ETF.




