The Cardano (ADA) community is looking back on the altcoin’s golden days in 2021 when it ranked as the third-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, sitting just behind Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH). During that historic bull market, ADA soared to an all-time high (ATH) of $3.10, a peak it has yet to reclaim in the current cycle.
Cardano $ADA was TOP 3 coin by market cap in the 2021 bull market. 🔥
— Cardanians (CRDN) (@Cardanians_io) March 17, 2025
There were no smart contracts and small ecosystem back then. Now, Cardano has thousands of builders, growing DeFi and the strongest community.
It is ready to reclaim the spot. pic.twitter.com/5BhqZHsK6G
Cardano’s Former Market Cap Dominance
At the height of its 2021 rally, Cardano’s total market capitalization stood at a staggering $91.8 billion. However, fast-forward to 2025, and the landscape has changed. According to CoinMarketCap, ADA’s market cap now sits at approximately $24.79 billion, highlighting the long road ahead for the asset to reclaim its former dominance.
Despite this, the Cardano community remains optimistic about its resurgence, fueled by significant advancements in its ecosystem. The blockchain network that once thrived without smart contracts has evolved into a robust system offering a wide range of decentralized finance (DeFi) services, smart contracts, and a growing community of developers building on its infrastructure.
Is ADA on the Verge of a New ATH?
Currently, ADA is priced at around $0.70, a considerable gap from its previous ATH. However, with several key developments and strategic partnerships, many believe ADA could be poised for another explosive rally. The Cardano network has undergone major upgrades since 2021, enhancing its scalability, transaction efficiency, and security.
Furthermore, Cardano founder Charles Hoskinson has been actively engaging with high-profile figures, including former U.S. President Donald Trump and Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse. These discussions hint at potential groundbreaking collaborations that could drive increased adoption and investor confidence in ADA.

What’s Next for Cardano?
With a stronger ecosystem, growing institutional interest, and a dedicated community, Cardano appears well-positioned for a resurgence. As the crypto market eyes a potential bull run, ADA holders are hopeful that the altcoin will reclaim its top 3 status and surpass its previous ATH.
Also Read: Cardano (ADA) Faces Decline: Network Activity Stalls as Traders Lose Confidence
Will Cardano once again be a dominant force in the market? The coming months will be crucial in determining whether ADA can rise to its former glory.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The author’s views are personal and may not reflect the views of Chain Affairs. Before making any investment decisions, you should always conduct your own research. Chain Affairs is not responsible for any financial losses.