NEAR Protocol Historical Price and Returns Analysis: Should I Buy NEAR Now?

Abstract

This article provides a comprehensive review of NEAR Protocol’s historical price movements and market volatility since its inception, combining data from bull and bear market phases to assess the potential returns for investors purchasing 10 NEAR tokens. It addresses the critical question: “Should I buy NEAR now?” to help both newcomers and long-term investors identify optimal entry points and growth opportunities.

Early Market Cycles and Price History: 2020 to 2021

NEAR Protocol’s early trading price was approximately $100.00 in its initial phase. The following details the price movements during the early bull market stage:

2020

• Opening Price: $100.00
• Closing Price: $1.48
• Highest Price: $100.00
• Lowest Price: $0.631
• Annual Returns: -98.52%

2021

• Opening Price: $1.73
• Closing Price: $14.39
• Highest Price: $16.24
• Lowest Price: $1.73
• Annual Returns: 731.06%

An investor who purchased 10 NEAR tokens in 2020 would have experienced substantial losses during that year. However, those who held through 2021 would have seen dramatic recovery, though the cumulative return from the 2020 entry point remains significantly negative at -7.14% by the end of 2021.

Bear Market Adjustments and Medium-Term Market Cycles: 2022 to 2023

During this period, NEAR experienced severe price corrections followed by gradual recovery, reflecting broader cryptocurrency market volatility.

Potential returns for investors who purchased 10 NEAR tokens during bear market and consolidation phases:

• 2022: -125.04%
• 2023: -6.28%

2022

• Opening Price: $13.52
• Closing Price: $1.28
• Highest Price: $20.14
• Lowest Price: $1.28
• Annual Returns: -90.57%

2023

• Opening Price: $1.65
• Closing Price: $3.65
• Highest Price: $3.80
• Lowest Price: $1.03
• Annual Returns: 121.55%

Recent Market Cycles: Should I Buy NEAR Now? (2024 to 2026)

In recent years, NEAR has displayed mixed performance with periods of recovery followed by renewed decline, raising questions about whether a new bull market cycle has emerged or if the market remains in a bearish phase.

2024

• Opening Price: $3.21
• Closing Price: $5.90
• Highest Price: $8.25
• Lowest Price: $2.75
• Annual Returns: 83.61%

2025

• Opening Price: $4.97
• Closing Price: $1.73
• Highest Price: $4.98
• Lowest Price: $1.51
• Annual Returns: -65.20%

2026 (to date)

• Opening Price: $1.70
• Closing Price: $1.02
• Highest Price: $1.70
• Lowest Price: $1.02
• Annual Returns: -40.19%

Potential returns for investors who purchased 10 NEAR tokens during this recent period:

• 2024: -21.97%
• 2025: -39.53%
• 2026 (to date): -6.84%

Summary: Bull Markets, Bear Markets, and Investment Timing Analysis

Through analysis of NEAR Protocol’s historical price movements and potential returns, the data reveals a predominantly challenging investment landscape since inception. From the $100 initial price point through 2026, cumulative returns demonstrate significant headwinds, with investors facing ongoing volatility and downward pressure. The token’s trajectory suggests investors should carefully evaluate entry timing, risk tolerance, and long-term conviction regarding NEAR Protocol’s fundamental technology and ecosystem development before deciding whether the current juncture represents a viable buying opportunity.