Starknet's STRK token advanced more than 50% in a single day on Sunday, with one market data provider recording a 54.87% daily gain while Bitcoin remained relatively flat with a 0.25% increase.
The price movement followed announcements from StarkWare leadership about quantum computing threats to blockchain security. CEO Eli Ben-Sasson stated that the quantum threat "may be much closer than we think," arguing that advances in artificial intelligence and mathematics could accelerate the timeline for developing quantum computers capable of breaking wallet signatures.
Independence from Ethereum Considered
StarkWare is evaluating whether Starknet should transition from an Ethereum Layer 2 to an independent Layer 1 blockchain. Such a move would give Starknet control over its own security upgrades rather than relying on Ethereum's migration schedule.
The company has set 2027 as a target date for becoming the first fully quantum-resistant network. Ethereum's own roadmap places core quantum-resistant upgrades around the end of 2029. No formal transition has been approved, and any change would require approval through Starknet governance.
Ongoing Debate on Implementation
An independent Layer 1 would require Starknet to assume responsibility for securing its own transactions. Key questions remain unresolved, including how applications, users, bridges, and liquidity would transition to a new chain structure. StarkWare has not disclosed a comprehensive migration plan.
Starknet's STARK proofs rely on hash functions considered quantum-resistant, though some elliptic-curve components remain under development. As an Ethereum Layer 2, the network currently depends on Ethereum's security infrastructure.
Market Reaction and Trading Activity
Retail sentiment for STRK shifted from bullish to extremely bullish during the rally, with message activity remaining extremely high. In comparison, Bitcoin held near $83,000 with bearish sentiment, and Ethereum remained nearly flat.
Technical analysts have offered various price projections, though these represent individual trader theses rather than StarkWare forecasts. The mismatch between speculative targets and recent price movements underscores the volatility typical of rapid rallies driven by announcement-driven momentum.
