Zcash (ZEC) has returned to the spotlight in the crypto community in recent weeks amid a resurgence of interest in privacy-focused cryptocurrencies.
The network’s “shielded supply” reached 4.5 million ZEC, while the token price increased sevenfold, from $50 to over $350 in September.
Zcash stands out as a blockchain that allows users to optionally hide their transactions. In this system, users can “shield” their transaction history by transferring their tokens to a privacy pool. The term “shielded supply” refers to the amount of ZEC held in these privacy pools. The Zcash network uses zero-knowledge proofs (zk-SNARKs) to verify transactions, ensuring security without revealing the sender, recipient, or amount.
Since its inception, the network has implemented three different privacy protocols: Sprout, Sapling, and Orchard. Each new version has created a new privacy pool, compatible with previous versions. The Orchard protocol, in particular, the most current and secure version, has accounted for much of the recent growth.
The increase in shielded supply reflects strengthening trust in the Zcash network's privacy infrastructure and technical support. Holding more tokens in stealth addresses increases user privacy by expanding the anonymity set. This reduces visible on-chain liquidity while reinforcing the network's core promise of optional privacy.
This increase is also considered a strong signal of the network's actual usage, as users must actively opt for privacy, indicating a conscious desire for privacy, as opposed to passive storage.