In 2024, cryptocurrency venture capital reached 13.7 billion dollars, marking a 28% annual increase. Despite this growth, it remains below the peaks of previous years. Leading cryptocurrency stakeholders exhibit cautious optimism for 2025, acknowledging that the high levels of 2021-2022 are unlikely to return. However, they believe projects with strong product-market fit may attract investment in 2025.
Investors Focus on DeFi and CeFi Sectors
Rob Hadick, a general partner at Dragonfly, anticipates significant growth in 2025 due to a more relaxed regulatory environment in the U.S., rising token prices, and increased institutional investments. However, he noted that returning to past highs will take some time.
Dragonfly will continue to support projects demonstrating strong product-market fit in areas such as DeFi, CeFi, and stablecoins. Emerging sectors include crypto-AI and DePINs (decentralized physical infrastructure networks), although Hadick indicated these areas are still in experimental stages.
Investment in Crypto-AI and Stablecoins Will Increase
Lauren Stephanian from Pantera Capital expects cryptocurrency venture capital to grow in 2025. She emphasized that while investments will rise alongside crypto-friendly policies in the U.S., market cycles will not last indefinitely. Pantera plans to invest particularly in crypto-AI, DePINs, and new types of Layer 1 blockchains, with the Solana 
$143 ecosystem attracting attention for its potential to draw more users and capital than Ethereum 
$3,139 and Layer 2 ecosystems.
Stablecoins continue to be a significant area of interest for investors. Galaxy Ventures highlighted the strong product-market fit of stablecoins in payment systems and anticipates growth in this sector. Binance Labs stressed the importance of projects having real-world applications and sustainable revenue models.
Investors Will Prioritize Crypto-AI and Infrastructure Projects
Hack VC forecasts a substantial increase in investment levels in 2025, focusing on crypto-AI, infrastructure, and DeFi projects. They view opportunities in GPU-based decentralized physical infrastructure networks and multi-layer AI stacks as vital. However, they expect NFTs to depreciate in value, with only “blue-chip” assets likely to gain value.
Lastly, Hashed pointed out that regulatory uncertainties and geopolitical risks could hinder growth in 2025. Nevertheless, there will be opportunities for growth for projects that establish proper infrastructure and regulatory compliance.
