Zcash
Crypto Overview
Purpose and Utility
Zcash is a privacy-focused cryptocurrency that launched in 2016. It uses advanced cryptography called zk-SNARKs to enable optional private transactions that shield the sender, recipient, and amount. The core purpose is to serve as a medium of exchange with enhanced privacy features while maintaining the ability to selectively disclose transaction details for compliance.
Business Model and Technology
Zcash operates as a decentralized payment network, with no lending or interest-bearing components. The protocol generates revenue through mining rewards that secure the network. The Electric Coin Company (ECC) maintains the core protocol and receives funding through a portion of mining rewards.
Real-World Adoption
Zcash has achieved notable adoption among privacy-conscious users and is listed on major exchanges. While transaction volumes are lower than Bitcoin, the network processes thousands of daily transactions. Several wallet providers and payment processors support ZEC, including Gemini and Flexa.
Development Activity
The project maintains active development with regular updates. Recent developments include the transition to Proof of Stake, enhanced mobile wallet support, and cross-chain interoperability features. The GitHub repository shows consistent commits and multiple contributors.
Token Distribution
20% of mining rewards are allocated to stakeholders: 8% to the Electric Coin Company, 7% to the Zcash Foundation, and 5% to grants. The remaining 80% goes to miners. There was no pre-mine or ICO, and founders' rewards ended in 2020.
Crypto Impact
To assign a comfort level investing in Zcash from a halal perspective we need to determine whether it has a net positive or negative impact.
Towards this end, the table below is used to tally all the positive and negative considerations our members can think of related to Zcash.
If you don’t see something that should be listed, positive or negative, feel free to submit your own contribution using the button “Contribute”.
We will review your contribution for accuracy before publication.
Importantly, you can review listed contributions and vote on which one you think has the greatest impact, positive or negative.
You only have one vote per asset so use it wisely.
You can change your vote if you change your mind.