Polygon (MATIC) is undergoing a major transformation with the launch of its upgraded token, POL, as part of the broader Polygon 2.0 roadmap.
This transition signals a move toward a zero-knowledge Ethereum Virtual Machine (zkEVM) architecture and enables a network of application-specific blockchains.
The upgrade aims to improve scalability, usability, and decentralization, factors that could influence long-term token valuation.
As of early May 2025, POL is trading around $0.23, well below its March 2024 peak of $1.29.
Source: CoinMarketCap
With high price volatility and new utility being introduced, investors are weighing whether the token can realistically return to $1 within the year.
The protocol’s success could also have broader implications for Layer 2 scaling solutions across the Ethereum ecosystem.
POL migration draws renewed interest
The migration from MATIC to POL is a core element of Polygon’s upgrade, enabling the network to evolve with zkEVM chains and decentralized governance.
POL will power staking, community governance, and validation activities across the Polygon ecosystem.
Recent POL performance shows a modest uptick, rising about 2.88% to $0.23.
The token reached an all-time high of $1.29 in March 2024 and recorded a low of $0.1533 in April 2025.
The current price range reflects significant uncertainty, with upcoming adoption metrics likely to set the near-term direction.
Price targets for 2025
Price forecasts for POL in 2025 suggest a potential high of $0.47181, an expected low of $0.11795, and an average estimate near $0.29488.
Analysts note that reaching the upper end of these estimates will depend on how quickly the new ecosystem gains traction.
The shift to zkEVM architecture, combined with developer participation, could be a key growth driver.
Projections for 2026 indicate a potential high of $0.75490 and a low of $0.18872.
By 2027, forecasts place the token as high as $1.20784, and by 2028 as high as $1.93254.
Longer-term estimates for 2030 peak near $4.94731, based on sustained adoption and progress in scaling.
Investment case remains mixed
Polygon’s move to version 2.0 strengthens its technical capabilities, but the current market price suggests adoption hurdles remain.
As zkEVM implementation and token migration continue, POL could attract developers building scalable decentralized applications.
Whether POL reaches $1 in 2025 will largely depend on the uptake of the upgraded ecosystem and how it stacks up against competing Layer 2 solutions.
Close attention to gas cost savings, validator participation, and mainnet activity will be essential when assessing future performance.