Deep Dive
1. Aqua Protocol Launch (Bullish Impact)
Overview:
1inch’s Aqua protocol aims to address DeFi’s $12B liquidity inefficiency by enabling shared capital pools across strategies. Backtests suggest up to 15x higher yields for LPs. Mainnet rollout is slated for late 2025/early 2026.
What this means:
If successful, Aqua could attract liquidity providers seeking higher returns, increasing demand for 1INCH as a governance/utility token. However, adoption depends on developer uptake and seamless integration with existing DEXs.
2. Team Token Accumulation (Mixed Impact)
Overview:
The 1inch team acquired 26M 1INCH (~$4.8M) in November 2025 at $0.184 (source), reducing circulating supply. However, partial profit-taking (e.g., selling 6.45M 1INCH at $0.28 in August 2025) introduces volatility risk.
What this means:
Strategic buys signal undervaluation confidence, but large sell-offs could pressure prices. Watch for on-chain activity to gauge team sentiment.
3. Regulatory Advocacy (Neutral Impact)
Overview:
1inch joined the Solana-led coalition urging the U.S. administration for clearer crypto tax and regulatory guidance.
What this means:
Favorable policies could enhance institutional DeFi participation, indirectly benefiting 1INCH. Conversely, delays or restrictive rules might stall growth.
Conclusion
1INCH’s price hinges on Aqua’s adoption, team token strategy, and regulatory tailwinds. While protocol upgrades and strategic accumulation offer upside, profit-taking and macro uncertainty pose risks. Will Aqua’s liquidity innovation outweigh DeFi’s competitive pressures? Monitor developer activity and DAO governance votes for directional cues.