Messari’s Crypto Theses 2025 is out—and it’s clear: AI, DePINs, and memecoins are rewriting the rules. From Bitcoin unlocking new utilities to Solana’s rise as Ethereum’s biggest rival—crypto’s next chapter is taking shape.
Here are 10 trends you can’t afford to miss. 👇
1 — Institutions Are All In on Crypto ETFs
In 2024, Crypto ETFs didn’t just make headlines—they were one of the main drivers of the market. Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs are now billion-dollar vehicles, and institutions are piling in.
And this is just the beginning. In 2025, we will see even more adoption of ETFs.
2 — Solana’s Breakout Year
Solana didn’t just survive the bear market—it thrived. Solana is cheaper and faster and now rivals Ethereum in DEX volumes (actually, it outperformed it several times).
With killer performance and adoption, Solana is shaping up as Ethereum’s biggest challenger.
▸ Tokens To Watch: SOL, RAY, JUP
3 — Memecoins Are More Than Just Memes
They’re onboarding engines.
Memes attract retail like nothing else. And memes will see a massive transformation in 2025 driven by AI and AI agents—which will attract retail even stronger.
Fun fact: Memecoins made up 11% of all non-stablecoin trading volume.
▸ Tokens To Watch: PEPE, WIF, DOGE, SHIB, AIXBT, BROT
4 — Stablecoins Are Eating Traditional Finance
In emerging markets, stablecoins aren’t just an experiment—they’re replacing banks. Low fees. No middlemen. Instant transfers.
Tron, in particular, is leading adoption where banks have failed.
▸ Tokens To Watch: TRX, USUAL, USDT, USDC
5 — DePINs Are Turning Hype into Revenue
Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks (DePINs) aren’t just theoretical anymore. With a $40B+ market cap, projects like Helium are proving that decentralized networks can scale and make money.
▸ Tokens To Watch: HNT, AKT, NKN
6 — AI x Crypto: The Perfect Match
AI agents and crypto are merging—and fast. VCs are flooding the space, funding decentralized AI models and autonomous agents.
We’re looking at AI-driven DeFi, on-chain automation, and gaming ecosystems that build themselves.
▸ Tokens To Watch: FET, TAO, RENDER, VIRTUAL, AIXBT, SUIAI
7 — Ethereum: Still King, But…
Ethereum’s Layer-2s raised big questions. If users and liquidity move to L2s, does Ethereum lose its edge?
Meanwhile, Solana is stealing the spotlight for traders and builders alike.
▸ Tokens To Watch: ETH, ARB, OP
8 — Bitcoin: Reinventing Itself
Bitcoin’s not just “digital gold” anymore.
With Runes and Babylon staking, it’s adding layers of programmability and even yield—while keeping its security-first principles intact.
▸ Tokens To Watch: BTC, STX, ORDI, DOG
9 — Regulation Might Finally Get Clearer
If a Trump presidency materializes, crypto regulation could finally shift. Lower uncertainty. Clear rules. Institutional adoption could hit overdrive.
10 — Onchain Consumer Apps Are the Future
The next wave of growth won’t come from complex DeFi protocols. It’ll come from consumer-friendly apps that feel like Web2 but run on Web3.
Wallets like Phantom are already paving the way.
Summarized
AI, DePINs, and consumer-first apps are already reshaping the industry. Ignore these trends, and you risk being left behind.
Which of these trends do you think will dominate 2025? 👇