Why Low-Price Altcoins are Gaining Attention
As we approach 2026, Bitcoin (BTC) faces challenges in regaining its foothold, prompting investors to look at cheaper alternative cryptocurrencies or altcoins with high growth potential. In this article, we’ll explore the top 4 altcoins currently priced below $0.10 that could make waves in the next year. These coins offer both affordability and upside for those willing to ride cryptocurrency market trends.
1. Midnight (NIGHT)
Midnight (NIGHT), built on the Cardano (ADA) blockchain, is earning accolades as a privacy-focused cryptocurrency. After its December launch, it quickly reached a $1 billion market cap in just one week. Developers are taking bold steps, including enabling interoperability between the Cardano and Ethereum blockchains to maintain privacy whether you use an Ethereum or Cardano wallet. This innovation also opens the door to integrating native stablecoins like Tether (USDT), potentially boosting liquidity and reducing slippage for trades involving NIGHT.
Currently trading at $0.076 and showing an 18% weekly growth, NIGHT could be a game-changer in 2026. As privacy and cross-chain functionality become more important, this token is worth considering for your portfolio.
2. VeChain (VET)
VeChain (VET) focuses on supply-chain solutions and has shown resilience despite recent market unpredictability. Thanks to the introduction of the Hayabusa upgrade, which offers new staking mechanics, VET successfully bounced from its critical retracement level of $0.0105. Though trading volume is down slightly, its growth metrics suggest potential for a solid January performance if altcoin trends remain positive.
Price at writing: $0.015. VeChain presents a safer medium-term investment for those prioritizing blockchain utility over speculative trades.
3. Shiba Inu (SHIB)
The popular meme token Shiba Inu (SHIB) continues to captivate retail investors. While its overall performance has remained sluggish, an uptick in 24-hour trading suggests renewed interest in the token. Notably, more than $80 million is currently active in SHIB futures contracts, signaling trader optimism for short-term gains.
With a price of $0.000007, SHIB remains volatile but intriguing, particularly if derivatives-market trends sustain its momentum.
4. Pepe (PEPE)
Pepe (PEPE), another meme-based cryptocurrency known for its volatility, has outperformed its category peers over the past 24 hours with a gain of 3.05%. Market sentiment was further boosted by the appointment of pro-crypto CFTC chair Michael Selig, which added optimism around regulatory relaxation. Early technical indicators, including the relative strength index (RSI) moving out of oversold levels, suggest PEPE could benefit from a continued rebound in January.
At $0.000003, this altcoin provides a speculative yet exciting opportunity for high-risk investors.
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When trading or holding cryptocurrencies like NIGHT, VET, SHIB, or PEPE, security is paramount. Consider using the Ledger Nano X, a highly rated hardware wallet. With support for over 1,800 cryptocurrencies and Bluetooth functionality, it’s an ideal solution for both novice and experienced crypto investors. Order your Ledger Nano X here to protect your assets.
Final Thoughts
As 2026 begins, these altcoins—Midnight, VeChain, Shiba Inu, and Pepe—show promise for various reasons, from technological upgrades to favorable market sentiment. However, always remember that cryptocurrency investments carry significant risks, and proper research is essential before making decisions. For those ready to venture into the low-priced altcoin market, these four coins could serve as a stepping stone toward substantial returns.