Deep Dive
1. Deflationary Mechanics (Bullish Impact)
Overview:
WAX has reduced inflation to 3.9% by linking token minting to network utility via its PowerUp model. Increased on-chain activity triggers more burns (e.g., 17 July 2025 tweet), with the supply down 11% YoY.
What this means:
Reduced sell pressure from inflation could lift prices if user growth resumes. However, current weak RSI (41) and -13% 60d returns suggest demand hasn’t yet responded to supply constraints.
2. Web3 Gaming Contraction (Bearish Impact)
Overview:
Daily web3 gaming users fell 17% in Q2 2025, with 300+ dApps shuttering (DappRadar). While WAX leads in transaction volume, its gaming-heavy focus exposes it to sector-wide funding declines (-93% YoY).
What this means:
NFT/metaverse activity – core to WAX’s utility – risks stagnation unless sustainable Play-and-Earn models gain traction. This could delay network effect-driven price rallies.
3. Upbit Liquidity Event (Mixed Impact)
Overview:
Upbit suspended WAXP deposits/withdrawals on 5 August for wallet upgrades, potentially disrupting 10-15% of its $2.3M daily volume temporarily.
What this means:
Short-term volatility is likely, but resolved maintenance often restores confidence. Monitor trading volumes post-7 August resumption for signs of Korean market re-engagement.
Conclusion
WAXP’s deflation pivot offers structural upside, but sector headwinds and thin liquidity ($0.0176 price, $78M market cap) amplify volatility risks. Can WAX’s gaming ecosystem outpace the broader web3 downturn? Watch Q3 NFT trading volumes and staking APY trends for demand signals.