Tezos (XTZ) Historical Price and Return Analysis: Should I Buy XTZ Now?

Abstract

This article provides a comprehensive review of Tezos (XTZ) price history and market fluctuations since its inception, combining data from bull and bear market phases to assess potential returns for investors purchasing 10 XTZ tokens. By analyzing historical trends and market cycles through 2026, we address the critical question: “Should I buy Tezos now?” to help both new and long-term investors identify optimal entry points and growth opportunities.

Early Market Cycles and Bull Market Origins: Historical Price Review (2017 to 2019)

Tezos is a decentralized blockchain that manages itself through the establishment of a genuine digital federation, simplifying formal verification. This technology mathematically guarantees the accuracy of transaction code and enhances the security of smart contracts. According to available market records, XTZ began trading at approximately $100.0 in 2017.

The following outlines Tezos’s price performance during its early market cycle:

2017

• Opening Price: $100.0
• Closing Price: $4.17
• Annual High: $100.0
• Annual Low: $4.17
• Annual Return: -95.83%

2018

• Opening Price: $6.35
• Closing Price: $0.484
• Annual High: $6.35
• Annual Low: $0.3924
• Annual Return: -92.38%

2019

• Opening Price: $0.3846
• Closing Price: $1.25
• Annual High: $1.84
• Annual Low: $0.3707
• Annual Return: +225.79%

An investor who purchased 10 XTZ tokens during the 2017 early market phase would have experienced significant losses, with potential returns of -$994.089 if sold at current prices. However, those who accumulated during the 2018-2019 bear market would have seen recovery by 2019, with returns of $2.06 on a 10 XTZ position.

Bear Market Adjustment and Medium-Term Cycles: Risk and Recovery Analysis (2020 to 2023)

During this period, XTZ experienced gradual recovery interrupted by severe market corrections. The cryptocurrency demonstrated resilience through multiple market cycles, showing both growth potential and vulnerability to broader market downturns.

The following illustrates potential returns for investors who purchased 10 XTZ tokens during different phases:

2020

• Opening Price: $1.31
• Closing Price: $2.13
• Annual High: $4.24
• Annual Low: $1.31
• Annual Return: +62.89%
• 10 XTZ Investment Return: -$7.156

2021

• Opening Price: $2.77
• Closing Price: $4.65
• Annual High: $8.69
• Annual Low: $2.43
• Annual Return: +68.35%
• 10 XTZ Investment Return: -$21.739

2022

• Opening Price: $4.21
• Closing Price: $0.7174
• Annual High: $4.29
• Annual Low: $0.7174
• Annual Return: -82.97%
• 10 XTZ Investment Return: -$36.224

2023

• Opening Price: $0.8229
• Closing Price: $1.01
• Annual High: $1.24
• Annual Low: $0.6504
• Annual Return: +22.42%
• 10 XTZ Investment Return: -$2.318

Recent Market Cycle: Should I Buy Tezos Now? (2024 to 2026)

In recent years, XTZ has demonstrated moderate recovery followed by renewed volatility, with market participants debating whether a new bull market cycle has begun or if the asset remains in consolidation.

2024

• Opening Price: $0.8719
• Closing Price: $1.44
• Annual High: $1.76
• Annual Low: $0.5993
• Annual Return: +65.6%
• 10 XTZ Investment Return: -$2.808

2025

• Opening Price: $1.26
• Closing Price: $0.544
• Annual High: $1.26
• Annual Low: $0.4385
• Annual Return: -56.71%
• 10 XTZ Investment Return: -$6.656

2026 (Year-to-date)

• Opening Price: $0.5691
• Closing Price: $0.5911
• Annual High: $0.5911
• Annual Low: $0.5691
• Annual Return: +3.87%
• 10 XTZ Investment Return: $0.22

Summary: Market Cycles and Investment Timing Analysis

Through comprehensive analysis of Tezos’s historical price movements and potential returns spanning from 2017 through 2026, a clear pattern emerges of significant volatility with periods of both substantial losses and moderate recovery. From its $100 inception price in 2017 to current levels near $0.59 in 2026, XTZ represents one of the cryptocurrency market’s most dramatic depreciations. The data demonstrates that early investors faced severe drawdowns, while those who accumulated during deep bear markets achieved marginal recovery. Current price levels in early 2026, combined with minimal recent volatility and modest positive returns, suggest the asset remains in a consolidation phase rather than a strong bull market. This historical analysis provides critical context for investors evaluating whether current valuations present compelling risk-reward opportunities or warrant continued caution.