Edited By
David Williams

A surprising number of investors are backing XLM, with supporters arguing that it offers real utility and growth potential. Some critics, however, believe it's a misguided choice for investment.
Stellar was designed as an infrastructure for financial transfers, and early adopters highlight its current uses such as:
Cross-border payments
Stablecoins (like USDC, EURC)
Asset tokenization
Integration with decentralized exchanges (DEX)
Unlike many cryptocurrencies that simply ride market hype, Stellar has established tangible applications.
With fees fixed extremely low, financing transfers remains economical for institutions and businesses. This feature has led some to view XLM as a collectible asset in the network:
Every account requires XLM
All trades involve XLM
Acts as a bridge asset for exchanges
Increased usage means higher demand for XLM, boosting its value in the long run.
The Stellar Development Foundation takes a measured stance, focusing on long-term growth rather than aggressive marketing. Investors see this as credibility instead of typical market manipulation.
"This sets the project apart, giving it a solid reputation" - Commenter
Opinions in the community remain divided. One commenter noted:
"Payment tokens are a guaranteed losing battle in 2026."
This critique echoes a sentiment amongst some that holding XLM may not yield expected returns.
β Real utility exists across various financial systems
β Critics argue the coin is losing steam in competitive markets
π¬ "It's not a gamble; it's a position with solid foundations"
As 2026 unfolds, investors will face challenges determining if XLM can sustain its utility and growth. The market remains dynamic, and investors need to remain vigilant in assessing both risks and potential rewards.
There's a good chance that XLM will continue to grow its utility as the market evolves. Experts estimate around a 60% probability that its adoption for cross-border payments and digital asset tokenization will see significant increases. As financial systems worldwide adapt to digital currencies, XLM's role could expand, potentially driving its value up even more. However, competition from new entrants may challenge its market position, suggesting a more cautious approach for investors is wise as 2026 unfolds.
The landscape today bears resemblance to the early days of mobile technologyβwhen companies like BlackBerry seemingly dominated the market. As competitors emerged, BlackBerry struggled to adapt and lost its lead. Similarly, XLM faces a race not just for utility but for broader acceptance in an evolving ecosystem. This highlights the importance of innovation and adaptability. In the end, without continuous evolution, even strong platforms risk losing their edge in the fast-paced realm of finance.