Why BNB Could Be the Dark Horse of Crypto: A 359% Price Surge Predicted by 2028

Bitcoin has exchange-traded funds. Solana boasts viral memecoins. But Binance’s BNB? It’s taking a more traditional route, and that may be its biggest advantage.

According to Geoffrey Kendrick, Global Head of Digital Assets Research at Standard Chartered, BNB is set for a major breakout. In a recent report, Kendrick forecasted that the Binance-affiliated cryptocurrency could reach $1,275 by the end of 2025, and climb to $2,775 by the close of 2028. That’s a 359% jump from its current price of around $605.

So what’s fueling this bullish outlook?

The Case for BNB: Predictability, Scarcity, and Strategic Ties to Binance

Kendrick’s analysis points to three major catalysts behind BNB’s potential rally: a predictable development path, deflationary tokenomics, and its integration with Binance, the world’s leading crypto exchange.

1. Steady and Predictable Growth

While other blockchain ecosystems are constantly upgrading and adding new features, BNB has taken a more measured approach. Kendrick compares its progress to a "tortoise," slow but steady.

Unlike Ethereum, which boasts over 1 million validators and is preparing to roll out its Pectra upgrade, BNB has kept its framework relatively unchanged since 2021. Its proof-of-authority consensus model allows just 45 validators, selected every 24 hours based on the amount of BNB staked.

This high degree of centralization has made BNB more stable. Kendrick notes that since May 2021, BNB has closely mirrored the performance and volatility of an unweighted basket of Bitcoin and Ethereum, indicating a reliable and benchmark-like presence in the market.

“BNB’s traditional, no-frills structure gives it a unique edge in a market full of constant innovation,” Kendrick wrote.

2. Deflationary Supply Drives Long-Term Value

BNB’s tokenomics are designed to be deflationary, and that’s a rarity in the crypto world.

With an annual inflation rate of -5.3%, BNB’s circulating supply is gradually shrinking. This is thanks to an automated burn mechanism that removes tokens from circulation based on BNB’s price and blockchain activity. Additionally, tokens accidentally lost are burned each quarter, further reducing the supply.

Over time, this diminishing availability of BNB could significantly drive up its value, especially if demand continues to grow alongside Binance’s user base.

3. Strong Utility Tied to Binance Exchange

BNB isn’t just another smart contract platform it’s also the native token of Binance, the largest centralized exchange (CEX) in the world.

Despite regulatory challenges and increased competition, Binance still processes $12 billion in daily trading volume and boasts over 57 million monthly users. Though its market share has declined from a 2023 high of 63% to around 40%, it remains well ahead of competitors like MEXC.

This continued dominance gives BNB a key advantage: real-world utility. Token holders receive trading fee discounts on Binance, creating ongoing demand whether or not the underlying blockchain evolves rapidly.

“As long as Binance holds its status as a top CEX, BNB’s role and relevance in the crypto economy are unlikely to diminish,” Kendrick added.

Final Thoughts: Is BNB the Underrated Giant?

While much of the crypto spotlight remains on newer narratives, AI tokens, meme coins, and cutting-edge upgrades, BNB's slow-and-steady strategy may prove more valuable in the long run.

With its deflationary mechanics, practical exchange utility, and benchmark-level price stability, BNB is emerging as a strategic asset for long-term crypto investors. And if Kendrick’s forecast proves correct, its value could quadruple by 2028.

As the crypto market continues to mature, it might just be the “old-school” tokens like BNB that offer the most sustainable growth.