Bitcoin News Today: Pudgy Penguins PENGU Surges 338% on NFT Sales, Social Media Conflux CFX Jumps 183% Before 3.0 Upgrade

In the second half of July 2025, Pudgy Penguins (PENGU) and Conflux (CFX) emerged as standout altcoins amid a broader crypto rally, drawing attention from institutions and retail investors. PENGU surged nearly 338% over 30 days, driven by robust NFT sales and social media engagement, while CFX climbed over 183% as anticipation grew for its 3.0 network upgrade. Both assets reflected a shift in investor focus toward mid-cap altcoins with clear use cases or community-driven narratives, even as Bitcoin reached record highs [1].

Pudgy Penguins’ 290% July rally was fueled by a surge in NFT secondary market activity and meme culture virality. High trading volumes, exceeding $1.5 billion in 24 hours, indicated strong institutional and retail participation. Analysts noted PENGU’s price trajectory mirrored previous meme coin cycles, where social media buzz and low barriers to entry accelerated accumulation [2]. Meanwhile, Conflux’s 183% gain highlighted optimism around its 3.0 upgrade, which aims to improve scalability and interoperability. The project’s $580 million 24-hour trading volume underscored sustained demand, particularly from investors betting on long-term utility [1].

The surge in PENGU and CFX contrasted with broader market dynamics. While Bitcoin’s rally injected liquidity, mid-cap altcoins demonstrated outsized momentum. Pudgy Penguins’ CEO, Luca Netz, emphasized the project’s focus on on-chain IP and community ownership, while Conflux’s leadership under Dr. Fan Long highlighted strategic upgrades to enhance network integration. These developments positioned both projects as key players in NFT and Web3 ecosystems, attracting traders seeking exposure to high-growth assets [1].

However, volatility remains a concern. PENGU’s price action aligned with historical meme coin patterns, where rapid gains often precede corrections if fundamentals lag valuations [2]. For CFX, the success of its 3.0 upgrade and adoption of its blockchain infrastructure will be critical to sustaining momentum. Market participants are monitoring these projects closely, but without broader institutional validation or protocol adoption, the sustainability of gains remains uncertain.

The economic impact of these surges extended beyond primary stakeholders. Increased investment in Pudgy Penguins and Conflux platforms could influence global consumer markets, with capital inflows from NFT collectors signaling growing confidence. Secondary effects may ripple into DeFi applications reliant on interconnected technologies, though outcomes will depend on regulatory frameworks, particularly in Asia where Conflux’s initiatives have strategic backing [1].

Sources:

[1] [Top Cryptocurrencies to Buy Before August That Could 20x Soon](https://www.analyticsinsight.net/cryptocurrency-analytics-insight/top-cryptocurrencies-to-buy-before-august-that-could-20x-soon)

[2] [Bitcoin News Today: July 2025 Crypto Surge](https://www.ainvest.com/news/bitcoin-news-today-july-2025-crypto-surge-bitcoin-hits-record-highs-5-altcoins-soar-85-290-upgrades-institutional-interest-2507)