NEAR Gains 12% as Investor Focus Shifts to AI-Driven Blockchain Projects

NEAR Protocol Rallies on AI Momentum as Altcoin Rotation Accelerates

NEAR Protocol posted an impressive rally between July 17–18, climbing 11.6% from $2.81 to a high of $3.04, before settling at $2.84. The move comes amid renewed interest in AI-focused crypto assets and a broader capital rotation into altcoins.

The surge coincides with what analysts are calling the early stages of an altcoin cycle, as investors shift away from large caps like Bitcoin and Ethereum toward more speculative plays. AI-related tokens, in particular, are leading this trend, benefiting from strong narratives around blockchain-integrated machine learning.

NEAR’s recent price action reflects this shift in sentiment. Institutional participants appear to be building exposure, with support holding at $2.70 and resistance forming near $3.03. The pullback to $2.84 suggests strategic rebalancing rather than retail-driven volatility.

Technical Snapshot:

  • Price climbed 11.6% from $2.81 to $3.04, before closing at $2.84
  • Key support held at $2.70, while resistance was tested at $3.03
  • A minor retracement of 1.05% signals profit-taking, not trend reversal
  • Trading volume surged past 317,000 units, highlighting growing interest
  • Price consolidation below $2.90 signals continued institutional positioning

As AI continues to drive investor interest in crypto, NEAR Protocol is emerging as a key beneficiary. Market observers are watching closely to see if continued momentum in altcoins can fuel a sustained breakout.