What’s Behind Terra’s Latest Rise?

Here’s why I think Terra (CRYPTO:LUNA) is one cryptocurrency investors may want to keep on their radars right now as volatility picks up.

| More on:
crypto, chart, stocks

Image source: Getty Images

Terra (CRYPTO:LUNA) features among the market’s fastest-growing cryptocurrencies. Terra’s unique positioning as a stablecoin ecosystem is something many investors like. For those considering the potential of crypto to become a true alternative for fiat currencies, Terra is a unique project to consider.

This past week, Terra saw an absolutely incredible rally. At one point, this token nearly doubled over the course of a week. Much of this aligned closely with the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Investors seeking safety in stablecoins sought out Terra’s UST token. This drove demand for LUNA higher.

Let’s dive into what investors interested in Terra may want to know.

A huge announcement

A majority of the gains that Terra saw was after the announcement that TerraUSD would receive the backing of a $1 billion Bitcoin reserve. Following this announcement, the investment thesis of LUNA changed profoundly for several cryptocurrency enthusiasts. Indeed, many crypto investors gained a bullish stance on this token due to this announcement.

TerraUSD (or UST) is Terra’s key stablecoin. This stablecoin is kept stable via an algorithmic stabilization process which involves the minting and burning of LUNA. When UST goes off its peg, LUNA is minted or burned to bring UST toward its US$1 peg.

Thus, LUNA’s fundamentals are rather easy to understand. The attractiveness of the LUNA token is related directly to demand for UST. When demand is high, more LUNA is burnt, sending the price of this token higher. The inverse is also true.

During times like these when investors are seeking safety, LUNA is an intriguing choice. Indeed, this Bitcoin reserve also bolsters this thesis. That’s because in times of trouble, Terra could theoretically dip into its Bitcoin reserve, avoiding having to mint LUNA. This could further prop up the price of LUNA over the long term — at least, investors hope so.

Terra is a leader in the stablecoin sector

Terra seems to be surging higher when it comes to the competition for market share in the stable coin sector. This is primarily because many investors believe that this algorithmic stability mechanism is indeed feasible in the long term. 

There’s an increased margin of safety for investors with this Bitcoin reserve’s introduction, which is a good thing. Also, increased stability is better than less, keeping in mind the substantial volatility seen lately.

At this point, UST seems to be an option of choice. Accordingly, increasing demand for this token is likely to impact LUNA positively.

Bottom line

The most recent hike in LUNA’s price has made Terra the second-biggest ecosystem in DeFi. As per data from DeFi Llama, this crypto presently has a TVL (total value locked) of more than $23 billion. This puts Terra in elite company.

Personally, I think there’s a lot to like about Terra right now. We’ll see where this token goes over the long term. However, those bullish on the stablecoin space have a lot to like about this one.

Fool contributor Chris MacDonald has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool owns and recommends Bitcoin and Terra.

More on Investing

four people hold happy emoji masks
Tech Stocks

5.9% Dividend Yield! I’m Buying This TSX Stock and Holding for Decades

Down almost 75% from all-time highs, Enghouse stock offers significant upside potential and a tasty dividend yield.

Read more »

Piggy bank wrapped in Christmas string lights
Bank Stocks

3 Canadian Bank Stocks Offering Decades and Decades of Dividends

These Canadian bank stocks have paid dividends for decades. The reliability of their payouts makes them compelling income stocks.

Read more »

dividend stocks bring in passive income so investors can sit back and relax
Dividend Stocks

2 Recession-Resistant Dividend Stocks Perfect for Life-Long TFSA Income

CP, with its continent-spanning rail, and BMO, with its centuries-long track record, are two recession-resistant dividend anchors for your TFSA.

Read more »

top motley fool stocks to buy in december 2025
Top TSX Stocks

Just Released: 5 Top Motley Fool Stocks to Buy in December

Gold and AI have been getting all the buzz, but another behind-the-scenes investing trend looks very promising this month.

Read more »

Canadian dollars in a magnifying glass
Dividend Stocks

Is Exchange Income Stock a Buy for its Dividend?

Is Exchange Income’s tempting yield a durable monthly paycheque, or a warning sign in a tougher economy?

Read more »

tsx today
Stock Market

TSX Today: What to Watch for in Stocks on Wednesday, December 10

After trimming losses, the TSX could swing today as markets await clarity from the BoC and Fed policy decisions and…

Read more »

hand stacks coins
Dividend Stocks

3 Top Dividend Stocks to Buy Today and Count On for Years

These top dividend stocks can maintain their current payouts and increase their distributions regardless of market downturns.

Read more »

buildings lined up in a row
Dividend Stocks

This 6% Dividend Giant Could Be the Perfect Retirement Partner

Discover how to achieve your ideal retirement. Plan ahead, invest wisely, and create multiple income sources for peace of mind.

Read more »