Virtuals Protocol Token Surges 207% on Institutional Inflows

Virtuals Protocol (VIRTUAL) is an AI-driven, Metaverse-focused blockchain project that operates on Coinbase’s Base and Solana. The platform allows for the creation and deployment of co-owned “AI agents” within gaming and virtual environments, enhancing interactivity in virtual worlds. The token reached its all-time high of $5.07 on January 2, 2025, with a market cap of $4.5 billion during the 2024 AI/Metaverse boom. Despite a subsequent consolidation, VIRTUAL remains listed on major exchanges such as Bitget, eToro, and Gate.io. The protocol has established partnerships with Nillion, Virtual Labs, and Aikoi.ai, and has launched products like a “Super App” and an upcoming AI DApp, which could significantly impact its price prediction.

Recent developments for VIRTUAL include the launch of its first AI agent, I.R.I.S., on June 11, 2025. Built with Nethermind on Ethereum, I.R.I.S. is designed for real-time smart contract security and social media monitoring. The I.R.I.S. token sale was oversubscribed by 1500%, indicating strong market interest and potential expansion onto other chains like Aptos. Additionally, the protocol introduced the Genesis Launchpad in May 2025, a “proof-of-contribution” model to reward active participants and prevent large holders from dominating agent launches. The veVIRTUAL staking system was also introduced to lock tokens for governance and protocol incentives, encouraging community engagement and reducing sell pressure.

Institutional inflows and smart capital engagement have been significant for VIRTUAL. Between May and June 2025, the token raised around $14.2 million from institutional and high-net-worth investors, resulting in a 207% price increase. VIRTUAL is reported to be one of the top traded tokens among “smart money” sources, which is a positive indicator for the AI Agent and DePIN space. These updates suggest that Virtuals Protocol is transitioning from a Base-only platform to a cross-chain AI Agent platform with strong market interest and a more participatory token model, laying a solid foundation for long-term price prediction.

Technical analysis of VIRTUAL shows mixed short-term signals. The 14-day RSI is 48.5, indicating neutral momentum. Moving averages are split, with some short-term MAs suggesting a “Buy” signal while the 50-day EMA suggests a “Sell.” Support levels are around $1.23–$1.47, with resistance at $1.70–$1.93. According to Investing.com, VIRTUAL is in a “descending broadening wedge,” which is a bullish reversal pattern. If this pattern holds, targets could be $2.37 and even $10.54. However, a break below support could see VIRTUAL drop to $0.83 or $0.41. Overall, technical indicators are neutral-to-bullish for 2025.

For 2025, monthly price ranges vary, with a dip in October ($1.13 low) and a recovery by year’s end ($1.29 average in December). These forecasts suggest that 2025 might experience a sideways to upward trend, with a moderate rally. For 2026 and 2027, longer-term predictions are stronger, assuming continued adoption and market upturn. VIRTUAL is expected to be in the $2–$4 range by the end of 2026 and potentially in the mid-single digits by 2027, given current fundamentals and momentum. Reaching $10 in 2027 would require a 500% rally, which current models do not predict.

Expert forecasts for VIRTUAL vary. Changelly predicts an average price of $2.58 for 2026 and $3.60 for 2027. CoinCodex is similar for 2026 with a $2.58 prediction but more conservative for 2027 with an average of $2.10. WalletInvestor is very bullish for 2026, with an algorithmic AI forecast of $3.29 by mid-2026. In general, most experts expect long-term upside for VIRTUAL.

Several factors could influence VIRTUAL’s price. The growth of AI technology and virtual worlds could increase demand for VIRTUAL’s utilities. Strategic partnerships and new features, such as the Super App and AI DApp, will drive adoption and token use. More exchange listings mean increased liquidity and visibility. VIRTUAL has a fixed supply of 1 billion tokens, so demand directly affects its price. Market cycles, including Bitcoin trends and investor sentiment, will also impact VIRTUAL. Bull markets will lift it, while bear markets will suppress it. Potential downsides include regulatory crackdowns or failure to deliver on the roadmap.

In conclusion, Virtuals Protocol’s outlook is positive. The focus on AI and the Metaverse, along with recent milestones such as partnerships and new DApps, are good signs. Technical indicators and historical cycles suggest moderate growth: 2025 forecasts are $1.2–$1.8, and 2026–2027 range between $2–$4. However, investors must be aware of risks, as market downturns could keep prices low or trigger corrections. If crypto and AI continue to rise, Virtuals Protocol may see progressive gains by 2025–2027.