Deep Dive
1. Tokenomics Shift (Mixed Impact)
Overview: WAX introduced PowerUp mechanisms that burn tokens during network usage, reducing annual inflation to 3.9% as of June 2025 (WAX). The circulating supply has grown to 4.5B tokens, but burns accelerated after RNG v3.0’s December 2025 launch.
What this means: Reduced sell pressure from inflation could support prices long-term, but short-term price action depends on whether user growth outpaces token unlocks. Current 24h turnover (3.08%) suggests moderate liquidity risk.
2. Centralization Risks (Bearish Impact)
Overview: A November 2025 Bybit report identified WAX as a blockchain allowing validators to freeze assets via “configuration-based” controls (Bitcoinist). This contrasts with its marketing as a decentralized chain for NFTs/gaming.
What this means: Institutional investors may avoid WAXP due to custody risks, especially after the SUI Foundation’s $162M freeze precedent. Decentralization audits and governance transparency will be critical for trust.
3. Gaming Sector Slump (Mixed Impact)
Overview: Web3 gaming activity fell 17% YoY in Q2 2025, but WAX ranked #2 in blockchain gaming transactions (DappRadar). Upcoming projects like Pantheon TCG (June 2025) and NFTOPIA’s metaverse expo (August 2025) aim to revive engagement.
What this means: WAX’s price could benefit from successful game launches, but broader sector headwinds – including a 93% drop in gaming-focused VC funding – limit upside potential.
Conclusion
WAXP’s deflationary pivot and gaming integrations offer a narrow path to recovery, but centralization concerns and altcoin-unfriendly markets (Bitcoin dominance: 58.5%) pose hurdles. Monitor the WAXP burn-to-mint ratio and Q1 2026 gaming partnerships for directional cues. Can WAX sustain utility-driven demand as speculative capital stays sidelined?