Meme coins have made a strong comeback at the start of 2026. In just the first week of the year, the total market cap of meme coins rebounded to nearly $50 billion, with capitalization shooting up over 20%–30%, and trading volumes surging almost 300% in a few days. Classic names like PEPE jumped more than 70% in a week, with PEPE’s 24-hour trading volume even reaching about $1.1 billion—over half of Doge’s. The rally isn’t just about new tokens; interest shifted back to the big, established meme coins first.
What’s driving this? - After a rough 2025, market sentiment improved quickly at the start of 2026, possibly signaling the early stages of a wider bull market. - Retail interest is returning, fueled by familiar favorites and increased speculation. - If the current momentum holds, some analysts expect total meme coin market cap could hit $69 billion in Q1.
However, meme coins are still highly volatile and sensitive to market mood and liquidity. Big moves up can reverse just as quickly. If you’re jumping into this sector, definitely keep your risk in check—history shows both wild upside and equally sudden downturns.
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#MemeCoinRebound
Meme coins have made a strong comeback at the start of 2026. In just the first week of the year, the total market cap of meme coins rebounded to nearly $50 billion, with capitalization shooting up over 20%–30%, and trading volumes surging almost 300% in a few days. Classic names like PEPE jumped more than 70% in a week, with PEPE’s 24-hour trading volume even reaching about $1.1 billion—over half of Doge’s. The rally isn’t just about new tokens; interest shifted back to the big, established meme coins first.
What’s driving this?
- After a rough 2025, market sentiment improved quickly at the start of 2026, possibly signaling the early stages of a wider bull market.
- Retail interest is returning, fueled by familiar favorites and increased speculation.
- If the current momentum holds, some analysts expect total meme coin market cap could hit $69 billion in Q1.
However, meme coins are still highly volatile and sensitive to market mood and liquidity. Big moves up can reverse just as quickly. If you’re jumping into this sector, definitely keep your risk in check—history shows both wild upside and equally sudden downturns.