Is Bored Ape Yacht Club Facing Its Final Curtain Call?

The NFT marketplace is witnessing a resurgence, yet amidst this revival, whispers float of the once-esteemed Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) teetering on the brink of obscurity. With its last founding member poised to depart, the question hangs heavy – is this the end of an era for the formerly blue-chip NFT collection?

A Fractured Founding Team and Financial Queries

FUEGO, the founder of Fuego Labs and ApeSpirits, recently stirred conversation by remarking on X about Greg Solano, the last standing BAYC founder, questioning the value in holding onto BAYC after five years without profits. The departure of Solano marks four of four founders stepping aside. This exit begs the question: what fate awaits BAYC?

Despite Yuga Labs’ cashing in on substantial assets like Moonbirds and CryptoPunks and earning $500,000 from Telegram stickers, these do not appear to buoy the sagging BAYC brand. Solano’s decision to part ways has even led to tensions, as evidenced by Solano blocking FUEGO on social media.

Market Snapshot: Are Growing Rumors Justified?

At the end of July 2025, BAYC’s floor price stood at 12.40 ETH, with a market capital of approximately $476.12 million. The grim deterioration in price ignites apprehensions of total devaluation, though a complete drop to zero seems improbable for now.

NFT Giants Still Dominate: Insights into the Competition

According to Forbes NFT Market data, BAYC retains a presence in popular Ethereum NFT rankings. Its strong community and exclusive perks like VIP parties and metaverse games lend it resilience. Yuga Labs’ acquisition of CryptoPunks has further entrenched their foothold in the Ethereum NFT arena.

CryptoPunks, currently leading with a floor price of 53.84 ETH, are praised for their scarcity and historic significance, with 45 recent sales signaling resurgence in interest. Meanwhile, Pudgy Penguins, boasting a floor price of 15.29 ETH, have made a splash globally, underlining their tangible market worth.

What Lies Ahead for BAYC?

While BAYC seems to hold onto considerable market value, there’s no denying its victorious golden era may be fading. With its founding figures withdrawing, the warmth once synonymous with its community might be cooling. Yet if Yuga Labs can sustain community engagement and bolster confidence, there remains a flicker of hope for BAYC to reclaim its grandeur.