On the latest episode of the “When Shift Happens” podcast, Arthur Hayes, a prominent figure known for his accurate predictions, delved into the potential rise of a genuine altcoin season. On October 10, Hayes illuminated the transformation in investment priorities, highlighting a shift towards projects that not only create buzz but also yield real income and offer returns to coin holders. This shift, he suggests, could redefine the upcoming market epoch.
What’s Driving the Shift from Hype?
Hayes reflected on previous cycles, particularly stressing the unrealistic promises made by DeFi protocols. He pointed out that many projects attracted attention with high valuations but lacked essential elements like customer bases or viable business models. The DeFi Summer of 2021 saw users keen on coin rewards, but this interest waned with market downturns.
Between 2023 and 2024, crypto venture funds pushed market prices with tactics such as “high Total Value Locked (TVL) – low supply.” Yet, investors began noticing these artificial valuations and became more discerning. According to Hayes, this change signifies the crypto market’s maturation.
Will Crypto Projects Meet Market Demands?
Indeed, this transformation is paving the way for a new altcoin season. Emerging crypto initiatives are not just creating excitement; they’re also generating tangible income and distributing profits among coin holders. Hayes notes that trailblazers like Hyperliquid epitomize this model, underscoring that real value arises from active usage.
Hayes believes that the refined investor approach will elevate the market’s caliber, fostering resilient brands. He emphasized that unlike past cycles marked by speculative rises, the current shift is organically driven, likely resulting in meaningful growth once fully realized.
- •In the DeFi Summer of 2021, market interest was largely fleeting, tied to reward-centric strategies.
- •The era of “high TVL – low supply” is witnessing a decline as investors prefer more genuine valuations.
- •Pioneering projects are setting the stage for durable value creation by sharing economic benefits with their communities.
Hayes optimistically concludes that as the structural changes solidify, the crypto terrain might witness unprecedented stability and growth. The focus is on accountable projects that generate real economic activities, denoting a significant departure from mere hype-centric investments.