In the fast-paced world of crypto, where trends can shift in a heartbeat, a recent clip from popular streamer ThreadGuy (@notthreadguy) has sparked fresh interest in Zcash (ZEC). Shared by @genzcash, the post highlights ThreadGuy's excitement about entering a ZEC position right after a stream with Mert (@0xMert_), the CEO of Helius Labs. If you're new to this, Zcash is a cryptocurrency that emphasizes privacy, allowing users to "shield" their transactions to keep them hidden from prying eyes.

The clip, which you can watch in the original post on X, shows ThreadGuy explaining how he jumped into ZEC with a meaningful amount on leverage. He mentions setting stops around $180 and riding some ups and downs. But what really hooked him? The shielded ZEC supply chart. "I can't get my eyes off of this," he says, pulling up a graph that appears to show a notable uptick.

What Is Shielded ZEC Supply, Anyway?

For those not deep in the Zcash ecosystem, let's break it down simply. Zcash offers two types of addresses: transparent (like regular Bitcoin) and shielded (private). When you shield your ZEC, it moves into a privacy pool where transactions use zero-knowledge proofs—fancy tech that proves something happened without revealing details. The shielded supply tracks how much ZEC is in these private pools.

A rising shielded supply often signals real usage or accumulation. People might be shielding tokens for privacy reasons, like secure transfers or hedging against surveillance. In a world where regulators are eyeing crypto more closely, this privacy angle makes ZEC stand out. And if big players like ThreadGuy are watching, it could hint at broader momentum.

The Mert Connection and Stream Buzz

The "Mert stream" refers to a recent live session where ThreadGuy chatted with Mert, known for his work on Solana infrastructure at Helius. While the full context isn't detailed in the clip, it seems the discussion lit a fire under ThreadGuy for ZEC. Mert himself chimed in on the post with a humorous reply: "My lawyers are not gonna like the wording of that. Guess I have no choice but trillions." It's a lighthearted nod, perhaps alluding to big bets or endorsements in crypto.

This isn't just idle chatter—ThreadGuy's influence in the streaming space can move markets, especially for tokens with memetic potential like ZEC. With @genzcash positioning itself as the "memetic warfare division" for Zcash, this clip feels like fuel for the community's hype machine.

Community Reactions: From Privacy Hype to Trading Takes

The post quickly racked up engagement, with over 27k views, 278 likes, and plenty of replies. Here's a roundup of some notable responses:

• @0xMert_ joked about trillions, showing the fun side of crypto banter.
• @arjunkhemani simply noted, "Interesting," capturing the curiosity bubbling up.
• @lilhalfin pointed out ThreadGuy trades but doesn't invest yet, hoping he becomes a "zodler" (ZEC hodler).
• @oraclee_xyz emphasized, "Shielded flows tell the real story," underscoring the on-chain data's importance.
• @Jikymeow called the spike "on-chain fomo," questioning who tracks privacy metrics.
• @ulatpadi praised, "Privacy is the foundation of true freedom, and $ZEC protects it."
• @paulosxbt advised against leverage for ZEC, seeing it as a long-term hedge: "Stack ZEC, shield it."
• Even skeptics like @2000xleverage weighed in, doubting the depth but acknowledging the chart's appeal.

These reactions highlight ZEC's dual appeal: as a serious privacy tool and a token with meme-worthy buzz. Whether you're a trader eyeing short-term plays or a believer in privacy tech, the conversation shows Zcash is regaining attention.

Why This Matters for Meme Tokens and Beyond

At Meme Insider, we track how narratives drive tokens, and ZEC's story fits right in. Privacy coins like Zcash aren't traditional memes, but with communities pushing "memetic warfare," they can rally like one. If shielded supply keeps climbing, it could signal undervalued potential—especially if influencers like ThreadGuy keep the spotlight on.

If you're intrigued, check out Zcash's official site for more on shielding or dive into on-chain tools to view the supply chart yourself. Who knows? This could be the start of ZEC's next big run. Stay tuned for more updates on emerging trends in the meme token space.