Deep Dive
1. Deflation Mechanics vs. Demand Doubts (Bearish Impact)
Overview:
The INJ Supply Squeeze (IIP-617) took effect Jan 20, doubling deflation by reducing new token issuance and accelerating burns. While 6.85M INJ (~7% supply) has been burned since 2021, daily issuance still exceeds burns at current network activity levels (Crypto Briefing).
What this means:
- Bulls hoped reduced supply would boost scarcity, but with $62.5M daily volume (0.15x market cap), weak demand overshadows tokenomics changes.
- Historical precedent: INJ dropped 10% after a similar Sep 2025 deflation proposal passed, suggesting "sell the news" behavior.
What to watch:
Weekly burn rates (next update Feb 6) – sustained $5M+ monthly burns could shift sentiment.
2. Technicals Signal Distribution (Bearish Impact)
Overview:
INJ broke below the 23.6% Fibonacci retracement ($4.40) and 200-day EMA ($8.21). Key indicators:
- RSI 34: Approaching oversold but not extreme (2025 low: 24).
- MACD: Bearish crossover persists since Jan 22.
What this means:
Algorithmic traders likely added sell pressure after the $4.40 breakdown. The next support is the Jan 29 low of $3.83, with resistance now at $4.40.
3. Altcoin Liquidation Spiral (Mixed Impact)
Overview:
Crypto-wide liquidations hit $576M (BTC) and $1.33B (7-day totals), per derivatives data. INJ’s 24h futures OI dropped 3%, suggesting leveraged longs exited.
What this means:
INJ’s -2.1% underperformed the global crypto market’s -1.78% drop, indicating coin-specific weakness beyond macro factors.
Conclusion
INJ’s dip reflects skepticism about deflationary upgrades amid low demand, technical breakdowns, and altcoin outflows. While the Supply Squeeze could pay long-term dividends, markets want proof of accelerated burns or new use cases.
Key watch: Can INJ hold $3.83 support? A close below could trigger stops toward the 2025 low of $3.12.