Crypto Basics

How to Make Money in Crypto? - Unveiling the Secrets to 100x Returns

Learn how to make money in crypto and discover the secrets to get 100x returns in the crypto market with expert insights and strategies.
Token Metrics Team
7 Minutes
MIN

The cryptocurrency world has become a dynamic hub of opportunities for savvy investors looking to make substantial profits. With the right strategies and a keen eye for emerging trends, anyone can achieve mind-boggling investment returns. 

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the secrets to making money in crypto and uncover the path to 100x returns.

Who is Ian Balina?

Before we delve into the strategy, it's essential to understand the expertise and know the individual behind it. Ian Balina, the founder and CEO of Token Metrics, is a renowned figure in the crypto world. 

With a background in computer engineering and experience as a sales engineer at IBM and a consultant at Deloitte Consulting, Ian brings a unique blend of technical knowledge and business acumen. 

He turned $20,000 into over $5 million in less than 12 months using a data-driven approach. With his vast experience and proven track record, Ian's insights into the crypto market are highly sought after.

The 3-Point 100x Strategy

When making 100x returns in the crypto market, Ian Balina has developed a three-point strategy that forms the foundation of his approach. These three points are quality, tokenomics, and valuation.

Quality - The Key to Successful Crypto Investments - Investing in quality crypto assets is crucial for long-term success. By assessing the fundamentals and technology behind a project, you can determine its growth potential. Factors such as on-chain traction, active wallets, community size, and the team's background play a significant role in evaluating the quality of a crypto asset. Additionally, analyzing the code quality, developer activity, and security audits provides insights into the technological aspect of the project.

Tokenomics: Evaluating the Long-Term Value - Understanding the tokenomics of a crypto asset is essential to identify its long-term value. Factors such as supply and demand dynamics, economic incentives, and the token's utility within the ecosystem are crucial in determining whether it's worth holding for the long term. 

By assessing the balance between supply and demand and analyzing the market's perception of the asset, you can gauge its growth potential.

Valuation: Identifying Undervalued Gems - Finding undervalued crypto assets is the key to unlocking substantial returns. By comparing the fully diluted valuation (FDV) with the market capitalization, you can identify potential discrepancies. 

Additionally, analyzing the asset's valuation compared to its competitors within the sector provides valuable insights into its growth potential. Value investing principles, such as buying low and selling high, form the basis of this valuation strategy.

What is the 100x?

Before we dive deeper into the strategies, let's define what precisely a 100x return means in the crypto world. A 100x return refers to multiplying your investment by 100, resulting in a whopping 10,000% return. 

For example, turning $10,000 into $1 million or $1,000 into $100,000 would be considered a 100x return. Achieving such astronomical returns requires identifying crypto assets with tremendous growth potential and investing in them at the right time.

Solana: A 1000x Case Study

To illustrate the potential for 100x returns, let's examine the success story of Solana. Solana, a blockchain platform, delivered over 1000x returns to early venture capital (VC) investors. By analyzing the various funding rounds and the subsequent performance of Solana's token, we can gain insights into the strategies that led to such impressive returns.

Seed Round: Seeding the Path to Success

In March 2018, Solana raised over $3 million in its seed round for 4 cents per token. At this early stage, the project had only released version 0.1 of its whitepaper. 

Fast forward to the all-time high of Solana's token, which reached almost $260, and VC investors who participated in the seed round achieved an incredible 6500x return on their investment.

Additional Funding Rounds: Amplifying the Growth

Solana's journey continued with additional funding rounds, each contributing to the project's growth and increasing the potential for substantial returns. In June 2018, Solana raised $12 million at 20 cents per token shortly before launching its private test net. 

In July 2019, another funding round resulted in over $5 million raised at 22.5 cents per token, just before the public test net launch. Finally, in February 2020, right before the main net launch, an additional $2.4 million was raised at 25 cents per token.

Matic (Polygon): A Case Study in Launchpad Success

Another avenue to achieve 100x returns in crypto is through launchpads, which provide opportunities for retail investors to participate in early-stage projects. 

One such success story is Matic, now known as Polygon, which launched through the Binance Launchpad. By analyzing Matic's journey, we can understand how early investors achieved impressive returns.

Seed Investor Success: Reaping the Rewards

Seed investors who got in early on Matic received the tokens for 0.0079, which proved to be an incredible bargain. With the all-time high reaching almost 300x the seed price, seed investors who held their tokens experienced a staggering 3700x return. Turning $10,000 into $37 million showcases the potential for substantial gains through early-stage investments.

Retail Investors: Seizing the Opportunity

Retail investors who participated in the Binance Launchpad event for Matic also reaped significant rewards. With a launchpad sale price of 0.00263, retail investors achieved a remarkable 1100x return if they held their tokens until the all-time high. 

Even with a modest investment of $300, these retail investors saw their holdings grow to over $300,000, demonstrating the potential for 100x returns through launchpad participation.

How to Make 100x via Mining?

Mining cryptocurrencies can be another avenue to achieve 100x returns. By dedicating computing power to secure blockchain networks, miners are rewarded with newly minted tokens. One project that exemplifies the potential for significant returns through mining is Helium.

Helium: Mining the Path to Profits

Helium is a project that enables individuals to mine tokens by sharing their internet connection through specialized devices called hotspots. By participating in the Helium network, miners earn HNT tokens as a reward. 

With the all-time high price of HNT reaching almost $55, early miners experienced a remarkable 500x return on their investment. This showcases the potential for substantial gains through mining endeavors in the crypto market.

How to Make 100x in a Bear Market?

While the crypto market can be volatile, it's still possible to achieve 100x returns even in bearish conditions. One project that exemplifies the potential for significant gains during a bear market is Kaspa.

Kaspa: Profiting in a Downturn

Kaspa is a proof-of-work blockchain project that experienced a 100x return during a bear market. Despite the challenging market conditions, Kaspa's fair launch approach and favorable economics allowed early investors to achieve substantial returns. 

With the all-time low price of 0.00017 and the all-time high reaching $0.05, investors who held their positions saw their investments multiply by 100x.

Crypto Quality: Assessing Fundamentals and Technology

When investing in cryptocurrencies, it's crucial to assess the quality of the underlying projects. Evaluating the fundamentals and technology behind a crypto asset provides valuable insights into its potential for growth.

Fundamentals: The Foundation of Success

Examining the fundamentals of a crypto asset involves analyzing factors such as on-chain traction, active wallets, community size, and the team's background. By understanding the project's fundamentals, investors can gain confidence in its long-term viability and growth potential.

Technology: The Backbone of Innovation

The technological aspect of a crypto project is equally important. Assessing factors such as developer activity, security audits, and code quality provides insights into the project's technical robustness. A solid technological foundation indicates the potential for innovation and long-term success.

Crypto Tokenomics: Evaluating Long-Term Value

Understanding the tokenomics of a crypto asset is crucial for identifying its long-term value. By analyzing supply and demand dynamics, economic incentives, and the token's utility within the ecosystem, investors can assess whether the asset is worth holding for the long term.

Supply and Demand Dynamics: Striking a Balance

Analyzing the supply and demand dynamics of a crypto asset is essential to gauge its growth potential. 

A balanced supply and demand relationship ensures stability and sustainable value appreciation. Factors such as token issuance mechanisms and token utility within the ecosystem play a significant role in determining the asset's potential.

Economic Incentives: Driving Value Creation

Economic incentives within a crypto ecosystem are vital for driving value creation. By examining factors such as staking rewards, token burns, and revenue-sharing mechanisms, investors can gain insights into the potential for token appreciation. Projects with well-designed economic models attract long-term investors and create a strong foundation for growth.

Crypto Valuation: Finding Undervalued Gems

Identifying undervalued crypto assets is the key to achieving substantial returns. By comparing the fully diluted valuation (FDV) with the market capitalization, investors can identify potential discrepancies in the market's pricing. 

Additionally, analyzing the asset's valuation compared to its competitors within the sector provides valuable insights into its growth potential.

Finding the Margin of Safety

Value investing principles can be applied to crypto asset valuation. By identifying assets with a margin of safety, investors can capitalize on market mispricing and achieve significant returns. 

Buying assets below their intrinsic value provides a buffer against market fluctuations and sets the stage for substantial gains.

Injective Protocol vs. SEI Network: A Comparative Analysis

To illustrate the importance of valuation, let's compare two projects: Injective Protocol and SEI Network. By analyzing their respective valuations and market positions, we can gain insights into their growth potential.

Injective Protocol: Unleashing the Power of Decentralized Exchanges

Injective Protocol aims to revolutionize the decentralized exchange landscape. With a fully diluted valuation of $1.2 billion and a market capitalization of $400 million, there is room for growth. 

Analyzing the project's fundamentals, technology, and competitive landscape provides valuable insights into its potential for value appreciation.

SEI Network: Tapping into the Power of NFTs

SEI Network focuses on the non-fungible token (NFT) space, aiming to bring unique digital assets to the forefront. 

With a fully diluted valuation of $200 million and a market capitalization of $100 million, SEI Network is undervalued compared to its competitors. Assessing the project's fundamentals, technology, and market positioning provides valuable insights into its growth potential.

Best 100x Crypto Picks

Based on the strategies outlined and the analysis conducted, I am excited to share my 100x crypto picks. These picks represent projects that exhibit strong fundamentals, promising tokenomics, and the potential for significant valuation growth.

  • Solana (SOL): With its impressive track record of delivering 1000x returns to early VC investors, Solana remains a top contender for substantial gains.
  • Polygon (MATIC): Formerly known as Matic, Polygon achieved remarkable returns through its launchpad event on Binance. Retail investors who participated in the event experienced 1000x returns.
  • Helium (HNT): By participating in the Helium network and mining HNT tokens, early miners achieved impressive returns of 500x.
  • Kaspa (KAS): Despite a bearish market, Kaspa demonstrated the potential for 100x returns through its fair launch approach.

Conclusion

Making money in the crypto market requires strategic thinking, thorough analysis, and a willingness to take calculated risks. By focusing on quality projects, evaluating tokenomics, and identifying undervalued assets, investors can position themselves for substantial gains. 

However, it's essential to conduct thorough due diligence and stay informed about market trends and developments. With the knowledge and strategies outlined in this guide, you are well-equipped to navigate the crypto market and unlock the potential for 100x returns.

Disclaimer

The information provided on this website does not constitute investment advice, financial advice, trading advice, or any other advice, and you should not treat any of the website's content as such.

Token Metrics does not recommend that any cryptocurrency should be bought, sold, or held by you. Conduct your due diligence and consult your financial advisor before making investment decisions.

Build Smarter Crypto Apps &
AI Agents in Minutes, Not Months
Real-time prices, trading signals, and on-chain insights all from one powerful API.
Grab a Free API Key
Token Metrics Team
Token Metrics Team

Recent Posts

Research

Best Newsletters & Independent Analysts (2025)

Sam Monac
7 min
MIN

Why Crypto Newsletters & Independent Analysts Matter in September 2025

In a market that never sleeps, the best crypto newsletters 2025 help you filter noise, spot narratives early, and act with conviction. In one line: a great newsletter or analyst condenses complex on-chain, macro, and market structure data into clear, investable insights. Whether you’re a builder, long-term allocator, or active trader, pairing independent analysis with your own process can tighten feedback loops and reduce decision fatigue. In 2025, ETF flows, L2 expansion, AI infra plays, and global regulation shifts mean more data than ever. The picks below focus on consistency, methodology transparency, breadth (on-chain + macro + market), and practical takeaways—blending independent crypto analysts with data-driven research letters and easy-to-digest daily briefs.

Secondary intents we cover: crypto research newsletter, on-chain analysis weekly, and “who to follow” for credible signal over hype.

How We Picked (Methodology & Scoring)

  • Scale & authority (liquidity = 30%): Reach, frequency, and signals that move or benchmark the market (ETF/flows, L2 metrics, sector heat).

  • Security & transparency (25%): Clear disclosures, methodology notes, sources of data; links to security/research pages when applicable.

  • Coverage (15%): On-chain + macro + sector breadth; BTC/ETH plus L2s, DeFi, RWAs, AI infra, and alt cycles.

  • Costs (15%): Free tiers, reasonable paid options, and clarity on what’s gated.

  • UX (10%): Digestible summaries, archives, and skim-ability.

  • Support (5%): Reliability of delivery, community, and documentation.
    Data sources used: official sites/newsletter hubs, research/security pages, and widely cited datasets (Glassnode, Coin Metrics, Kaiko, CoinShares) for cross-checks. Last updated September 2025.

Top 10 Crypto Newsletters & Independent Analysts in September 2025

1. Bankless — Best for Daily Crypto & Web3 Digests

  • Why Use It: Bankless offers an approachable Daily Brief and deeper thematic series that balance top-of-funnel news with actionable context. If you want a consistent, skimmable daily pulse on crypto, DeFi, and Ethereum, this is a staple.

  • Best For: Busy professionals, founders, new-to-intermediate investors, narrative spotters.

  • Notable Features: Daily Brief; weekly/thematic issues; Ethereum-centric takes; large archive; clear disclosures.

  • Fees Notes: Generous free tier; optional paid communities/products.

  • Regions: Global

  • Alternatives: The Defiant, Milk Road

  • Consider If: You want daily breadth and a friendly voice more than deep quant.

2. The Defiant — Best for DeFi-Native Coverage

  • Why Use It: The Defiant’s daily/weekly letters and DeFi Alpha cut straight to on-chain happenings, new protocols, and governance. Expect fast DeFi coverage with practical trader/investor context.

  • Best For: DeFi power users, yield seekers, DAO/governance watchers.

  • Notable Features: DeFi-focused daily; weekly recaps; Alpha letter; strong reporting cadence.

  • Fees Notes: Free newsletter options; premium research tiers available.

  • Regions: Global

  • Alternatives: Bankless, Delphi Digital

  • Consider If: Your focus is DeFi first and you want timely protocol insights.

3. Messari – Unqualified Opinions — Best for Institutional-Grade Daily Takes

  • Why Use It: Messari’s daily market commentary and analyst notes are crisp, data-aware, and aligned with institutional workflows. Great for staying current on stablecoins, venture, and macro-market structure.

  • Best For: Funds, analysts, founders, policy/market observers.

  • Notable Features: Daily commentary; stablecoin weekly; venture weekly; archives; research ecosystem.

  • Fees Notes: Free newsletters with deeper research available to paying customers.

  • Regions: Global

  • Alternatives: Delphi Digital, Coin Metrics SOTN

  • Consider If: You value concise institutional context over tutorials.

4. Delphi Digital – Delphi Alpha — Best for Thematic Deep Dives

  • Why Use It: Delphi marries thematic research (AI infra, gaming, L2s) with market updates and timely unlocks of longer reports. Great when you want conviction around medium-term narratives.

  • Best For: Venture/allocators, founders, narrative investors.

  • Notable Features: “Alpha” newsletter; report previews; cross-asset views; long-form research.

  • Fees Notes: Free Alpha letter; premium research memberships available.

  • Regions: Global

  • Alternatives: Messari, The Defiant

  • Consider If: You prefer thesis-driven research over daily headlines.

5. Glassnode – The Week On-Chain — Best for On-Chain Market Structure

  • Why Use It: The industry’s flagship weekly on-chain letter explains BTC/ETH supply dynamics, holder cohorts, and cycle health with charts you’ll see cited everywhere.

  • Best For: Traders, quants, macro/on-chain hybrid readers.

  • Notable Features: Weekly on-chain; clear frameworks; historical cycle context; free subscription option.

  • Fees Notes: Free newsletter; paid platform tiers for advanced metrics.

  • Regions: Global

  • Alternatives: Coin Metrics SOTN, Into The Cryptoverse

  • Consider If: You want a single, rigorous on-chain read each week.

6. Coin Metrics – State of the Network — Best for Data-First Research Notes

  • Why Use It: SOTN blends on-chain and market data into weekly essays on sectors like LSTs, stablecoins, and market microstructure. It’s authoritative, neutral, and heavily cited.

  • Best For: Researchers, desk strategists, product teams.

  • Notable Features: Weekly SOTN; special insights; transparent data lineage; archives.

  • Fees Notes: Free newsletter; enterprise data products available.

  • Regions: Global

  • Alternatives: Glassnode, Kaiko Research

  • Consider If: You want clean methodology and durable references.

7. Kaiko Research Newsletter — Best for Liquidity & Market Microstructure

  • Why Use It: Kaiko’s research distills exchange liquidity, spreads, and derivatives structure across venues—useful for routing, slippage, and institutional execution context.

  • Best For: Execution teams, market makers, advanced traders.

  • Notable Features: Data-driven notes; liquidity dashboards; exchange/venue comparisons.

  • Fees Notes: Free research posts; deeper tiers for subscribers/clients.

  • Regions: Global

  • Alternatives: Coin Metrics, Messari

  • Consider If: You care about where liquidity actually is—and why it moves.

8. CoinShares – Digital Asset Fund Flows & Market Update — Best for ETF/Institutional Flow Watchers

  • Why Use It: Weekly Fund Flows and macro wrap-ups help you track institutional positioning and sentiment—especially relevant in the ETF era.

  • Best For: Allocators, macro traders, desk strategists.

  • Notable Features: Monday flows report; Friday market update; AuM trends; asset/region breakdowns.

  • Fees Notes: Free reports.

  • Regions: Global (some content segmented by jurisdiction)

  • Alternatives: Glassnode, Messari

  • Consider If: You anchor decisions to capital flows and risk appetite.

9. Milk Road — Best for Quick, Conversational Daily Briefs

  • Why Use It: A fast, witty daily that makes crypto easier to follow without dumbing it down. Great second screen with coffee—good for catching headlines, airdrops, and memes that matter.

  • Best For: Busy professionals, newcomers, social-narrative trackers.

  • Notable Features: Daily TL;DR; approachable tone; growing macro/AI crossover.

  • Fees Notes: Free newsletter; sponsored placements disclosed.

  • Regions: Global

  • Alternatives: Bankless, The Defiant

  • Consider If: You want speed and simplicity over deep quant.

10. Lyn Alden – Strategic Investment Newsletter — Best for Macro That Actually Impacts Crypto

  • Why Use It: Not crypto-only—yet hugely relevant. Lyn’s macro letters cover liquidity regimes, fiscal/monetary shifts, and energy/AI cycles that drive risk assets, including BTC/ETH.

  • Best For: Long-term allocators, macro-minded crypto investors.

  • Notable Features: Free macro letters; archives; occasional crypto-specific sections; clear frameworks.

  • Fees Notes: Free with optional premium research.

  • Regions: Global

  • Alternatives: Messari, Delphi Digital

  • Consider If: You want a macro north star to frame your crypto thesis.

Decision Guide: Best By Use Case

  • DeFi-native coverage: The Defiant

  • Daily crypto pulse (friendly): Bankless or Milk Road

  • Institutional-style daily notes: Messari – Unqualified Opinions

  • Thematic, thesis-driven research: Delphi Digital

  • On-chain cycle health: Glassnode – Week On-Chain

  • Data-first weekly (methodology): Coin Metrics – SOTN

  • Liquidity & venue quality: Kaiko Research

  • ETF & institutional positioning: CoinShares Fund Flows

  • Macro framing for crypto: Lyn Alden

How to Choose the Right Crypto Newsletter/Analyst (Checklist)

  • Region/eligibility: confirm signup availability and any paywall constraints.

  • Breadth vs. depth: daily skim (news) vs. weekly deep dives (research).

  • Data lineage: on-chain and market sources are named and reproducible.

  • Fees & value: what’s free vs. gated; consider team needs (PM vs. research).

  • UX & cadence: archives, searchable tags, consistent schedule.

  • Disclosures: positions, sponsorships, methodology explained.

  • Community/support: access to Q&A, office hours, or active forums.

  • Red flags: vague performance claims; undisclosed affiliations.

Use Token Metrics With Any Newsletter/Analyst

  • AI Ratings to screen sectors/tokens surfacing in the letters you read.
  • Narrative Detection to quantify momentum behind themes (L2s, AI infra, RWAs).

  • Portfolio Optimization to size convictions with risk-aware allocations.

  • Alerts/Signals to time entries/exits as narratives evolve.
    Workflow: Research in your favorite newsletter → shortlist in Token Metrics → execute on your venue of choice → monitor with Alerts.

‍


Primary CTA: Start free trial

Security & Compliance Tips

  • Enable 2FA on your email client and any research platform accounts.

  • Verify newsletter domains and unsubscribe pages to avoid phishing.

  • Respect KYC/AML and regional rules when acting on research.

  • For RFQs/execution, confirm venue liquidity and slippage.

  • Separate reading devices from hot-wallets; practice wallet hygiene.

This article is for research/education, not financial advice.

Beginner Mistakes to Avoid

  • Treating a newsletter as a signal service—use it as input, not output.

  • Ignoring methodology and disclosures.

  • Chasing every narrative without a sizing framework.

  • Subscribing to too many sources—prioritize quality over quantity.

  • Not validating claims with primary data (on-chain/flows).

FAQs

What makes a crypto newsletter “best” in 2025?
Frequency, methodological transparency, and the ability to translate on-chain/macro signals into practical takeaways. Bonus points for archives and clear disclosures.

Are the top newsletters free or paid?
Most offer strong free tiers (daily or weekly). Paid tiers typically unlock deeper research, models, or community access.

Do I need both on-chain and macro letters?
Ideally yes—on-chain explains market structure; macro sets the regime (liquidity, rates, growth). Pairing both creates a more complete view.

How often should I read?
Skim dailies (Bankless/Milk Road) for awareness; reserve time weekly for deep dives (Glassnode/Coin Metrics/Delphi).

Can newsletters replace analytics tools?
No. Treat them as curated insight. Validate ideas with your own data and risk framework (Token Metrics can help).

Which is best for ETF/flows?
CoinShares’ weekly Fund Flows is the go-to for institutional positioning, complemented by Glassnode/Coin Metrics on structure.

Conclusion + Related Reads

If you want a quick pulse, pick a daily (Bankless or Milk Road). For deeper conviction, add one weekly on-chain (Glassnode or Coin Metrics) and one thesis engine (Delphi or Messari). Layer macro (Lyn Alden) to frame the regime, and use Token Metrics to quantify what you read and act deliberately.

Related Reads:

  • Best Cryptocurrency Exchanges 2025

  • Top Derivatives Platforms 2025

  • Top Institutional Custody Providers 2025

Sources & Update Notes

We reviewed each provider’s official newsletter hub, research pages, and recent posts to confirm availability, cadence, and focus. Updated September 2025 with the latest archives and program pages. Key official references: Bankless newsletter hub Bankless+2Bankless+2; The Defiant newsletter page The Defiant+1; Messari newsletter hub and Unqualified Opinions pages Messari+2messari.substack.com+2; Delphi Digital newsletter page and research site Delphi Digital+2delphidigital.io+2; Glassnode Week On-Chain hub and latest issue insights.glassnode.com+2Glassnode+2; Coin Metrics SOTN hub and archive Coin Metrics+2Coin Metrics+2; Kaiko research/newsletter hub and company site Kaiko Research+1; CoinShares Fund Flows & Research hubs (US/global) and latest weekly example CoinShares+2CoinShares+2; Milk Road homepage and social proof Milk Road+1; Lyn Alden newsletter/archive pages and 2025 issues Lyn Alden+4Lyn Alden+4Lyn Alden+4.

‍

Research

Top Education Platforms & Courses for Crypto (2025)

Sam Monac
7 min
MIN

Why Crypto education platforms & courses Matter in September 2025

Crypto moves fast—and the gap between hype and real skills can be costly. If you’re evaluating the best crypto courses or structured paths to go from zero to fluent (or from power user to builder), the right program can compress months of trial-and-error into weeks. In short: a crypto education platform is any structured program, course catalog, or academy that teaches blockchain, Web3, or digital-asset topics with clear outcomes (e.g., literacy, developer skills, startup readiness).
This guide curates 10 credible options across beginner literacy, smart-contract engineering, and founder tracks. We blend SERP research with hands-on criteria so you can match a course to your goals, time, and budget—without the fluff.

How We Picked (Methodology & Scoring)

  • Curriculum depth & rigor (30%): Syllabi clarity, assessments, capstones, recognized instructors.

  • Credibility & security posture (25%): Transparent teams, reputable institutions, security topics baked in.

  • Coverage & specialization (15%): Breadth (BTC, ETH, DeFi, NFTs, security) plus specialist tracks (Solidity, oracles, ZK).

  • Costs & access (15%): Free tiers, scholarships, value per hour, certificates.

  • UX & learning experience (10%): In-browser coding, cohort support, community, multilingual content.

  • Support & outcomes (5%): Mentorship, career support, community reach.

Data sources: official provider pages (program docs, security/FAQ, curriculum), plus widely cited market datasets for cross-checks only. Last updated September 2025.

Top 10 Crypto education platforms & courses in September 2025

1. Coursera — “Bitcoin and Cryptocurrency Technologies” (Princeton) — Best for academic foundations

  • Why Use It: A seminal university course that demystifies Bitcoin and core crypto concepts with a rigorous, vendor-neutral lens. Clear lectures and assessments make it ideal for newcomers who want trustworthy fundamentals. Coursera

  • Best For: Beginners, product managers, compliance/finance pros, technical leaders needing conceptual grounding.

  • Notable Features: University-backed syllabus; security/anonymity modules; future/regulation perspectives; conceptual foundations for building. Princeton Online

  • Consider If: You prefer hands-on Solidity right away—this is theory-first.

  • Alternatives: edX (Berkeley), Coinbase Learn.

  • Regions: Global. Fees Notes: Coursera pricing varies by locale.

2. edX — Berkeley Blockchain Fundamentals — Best for university-brand plus survey depth

  • Why Use It: UC Berkeley’s professional certificate pairs an overview of blockchain and crypto with academic rigor and clear learning paths. Good bridge between literacy and technical depth. edX+1

  • Best For: Cross-functional teams, MBA/finance learners, policy/ops, curious devs.

  • Notable Features: Recognized university credential; modular courses; wide topical span across Bitcoin, Ethereum, and applications. edX

  • Consider If: You need coding-heavy, cohort-based Solidity training now.

  • Alternatives: Coursera (Princeton), ConsenSys Academy.

  • Regions: Global. Fees Notes: edX offers audit (free) and paid certificate tracks. edX

3. Binance Academy — Best free, multilingual crypto literacy hub

  • Why Use It: A large, constantly updated library of beginner-to-intermediate guides, glossaries, and tutorials in many languages—100% free. Binance+1

  • Best For: Absolute beginners, non-technical teams, multilingual audiences, fast refreshers.

  • Notable Features: Courses + articles + videos; Bitcoin halving hubs; multi-language support; bite-size explainers. Binance

  • Consider If: You want a formal certificate or university grade.

  • Alternatives: Coinbase Learn, edX.

  • Regions: Global. Fees Notes: Free.

4. Coinbase Learn — Best for simple, trusted onboarding

  • Why Use It: Friendly entry point with practical “how-to” guides that answer common questions about Bitcoin, Ethereum, NFTs, wallets, and safety. Great for reluctant first-timers. Coinbase+1

  • Best For: New investors, finance teams exploring crypto policy, busy executives.

  • Notable Features: Step-by-step tutorials; beginner hubs; platform-agnostic primers. Coinbase

  • Consider If: You need dev-level skills or a cohort experience.

  • Alternatives: Binance Academy, Coursera.

  • Regions: Global. Fees Notes: Free learning content.

5. ConsenSys Academy — Best for Ethereum developer bootcamps

  • Why Use It: The training arm of a core Ethereum company, with cohort-based programs, mentor access, and security best practices baked in. Strong for professionalizing Solidity skills. Consensys - The Ethereum Company+1

  • Best For: Software engineers, Web2 devs crossing to Web3, career switchers.

  • Notable Features: Flagship Blockchain Developer Bootcamp; team projects; office hours; certificates. Consensys - The Ethereum Company

  • Consider If: You need completely free self-paced content.

  • Alternatives: Alchemy University, Moralis Academy.

  • Regions: Global (online). Fees Notes: Paid bootcamps; prices vary. Consensys - The Ethereum Company

6. Alchemy University — Best free, hands-on Solidity path

  • Why Use It: A popular builder track with free in-browser coding, projects, and a modern Solidity course aligned to current compiler versions. Alchemy+1

  • Best For: Aspiring smart-contract devs, hackathon teams, self-paced builders.

  • Notable Features: Free Solidity course; code-along projects; hackathons; JS + Ethereum tracks. Alchemy

  • Consider If: You want a cohort and instructor mentorship.

  • Alternatives: ConsenSys Academy, Encode Club.

  • Regions: Global. Fees Notes: Free.

7. Moralis Academy — Best for blended dev + trading curriculum

  • Why Use It: Combines structured dev courses with trading strategy content and a community. Offers free starts with optional Pro for deeper tracks. academy.moralis.io

  • Best For: Builders who also want market context; ambitious beginners.

  • Notable Features: Step-by-step tracks; community; trading modules; ties to Moralis dev tooling. Moralis | Enterprise-Grade Web3 APIs

  • Consider If: You prefer purely academic or vendor-neutral content.

  • Alternatives: Alchemy University, Binance Academy.

  • Regions: Global. Fees Notes: Free tier; paid plans available. academy.moralis.io

8. University of Nicosia (UNIC) — Free MOOCs + MSc in Blockchain/Digital Currency — Best for formal academia & credentials

  • Why Use It: UNIC pioneered a dedicated MSc in Digital Currency and runs free entry MOOCs—a long-standing academic pathway in crypto. University of Nicosia+1

  • Best For: Career-switchers wanting formal credentials; policymakers; educators.

  • Notable Features: Free MOOC intros; postgraduate degrees; broad coverage across tech, economic, and legal aspects. University of Nicosia

  • Consider If: You need short, purely practical dev sprints.

  • Alternatives: edX (Berkeley), Coursera.

  • Regions: Global (online). Fees Notes: MOOCs free; degree programs paid. University of Nicosia

9. Chainlink Education & Bootcamps — Best for oracle, data, and hybrid smart-contract skills

  • Why Use It: If you’re building with real-world data, Chainlink’s education hub and instructor-led bootcamps teach oracle patterns, cross-chain messaging, and production-grade smart contracts. Chainlink+1

  • Best For: Devs targeting DeFi, on-chain finance, and data-rich dApps.

  • Notable Features: Tutorials on NFTs/stablecoins; live bootcamps; developer advocates; ecosystem resources. chainlinkecosystem.com

  • Consider If: You want chain-agnostic theory without vendor context.

  • Alternatives: Alchemy University, ConsenSys Academy.

  • Regions: Global. Fees Notes: Many resources free; bootcamp formats vary.

10. a16z Crypto — Crypto Startup Accelerator (CSX) — Best for founders & operators

  • Why Use It: Beyond coding, founders need go-to-market, legal, and product mentorship. CSX offers a cohort model with capital, expert lectures, and crypto-specific startup support. a16z crypto

  • Best For: Early-stage founders, PMs, operators validating product-market fit in Web3.

  • Notable Features: Curated mentorship network; structured curriculum; demo days; evolution of the original Crypto Startup School into a full accelerator. a16z crypto

  • Consider If: You’re pre-idea or not building a company yet—start with literacy/dev courses first.

  • Alternatives: Encode Club accelerators, Solana-ecosystem programs.

  • Regions: Global (programs periodically in specific cities). Fees Notes: Accelerator terms vary by cohort.

Decision Guide: Best By Use Case

How to Choose the Right Crypto education platforms & courses (Checklist)

  • Confirm level & outcomes (literacy, dev skills, or founder playbook).

  • Review syllabus & assessments; look for capstones or code reviews.

  • Match specialization (Solidity, ZK, DeFi, security, oracles) to your goal.

  • Check costs & time (audit/free vs. paid, cohort dates).

  • Evaluate support (mentors, office hours, Discord/Forum).

  • Prefer credible institutions/teams; scan FAQs/security sections.

  • Red flags: vague outcomes, hard upsells, no instructor transparency.

Use Token Metrics With Any Crypto education platforms & courses

  • AI Ratings to screen tokens you’ll study or trade.
  • Narrative Detection to spot momentum across sectors.

  • Portfolio Optimization to size positions by risk.

  • Alerts/Signals to monitor entries/exits as you learn.
    Workflow: Research → Choose a course → Practice on sandboxes → Execute with a small wallet → Monitor with Alerts.

 Primary CTA: Start free trial.

Security & Compliance Tips

  • Enable 2FA and hardware keys on all learning-linked accounts.

  • Keep a separate practice wallet; never paste seed phrases into course portals.

  • Use reputable docs for KYC/AML topics; understand regional eligibility.

  • Practice safe contract deployments on testnets first.

  • Document RFQ or OTC steps if your course touches institutional flows.

This article is for research/education, not financial advice.

Beginner Mistakes to Avoid

  • Jumping into paid bootcamps before trying free literacy/prep modules.

  • Treating dev tutorials as plug-and-play without security reviews.

  • Chasing certifications without projects to show.

  • Ignoring region/eligibility notes or program timelines.

  • Over-indexing on one chain—learn concepts that transfer.

FAQs

What’s the fastest way to start learning crypto in 2025?
Start with a free literacy hub (Binance Academy or Coinbase Learn), then audit a university course (Coursera/edX) before committing to a paid bootcamp. This builds intuition and saves money. Binance+2Coinbase+2

Which course is best if I want to become a Solidity developer?
Alchemy University is a free, hands-on path with in-browser coding; ConsenSys Academy adds mentor-led structure and team projects for professional polish. Alchemy+1

Do I need a formal degree for crypto careers?
Not strictly. A portfolio of projects often trumps certificates, but formal programs like UNIC’s MSc can help for policy, compliance, or academia-adjacent roles. University of Nicosia

Are these programs global and online?
Most are fully online and globally accessible; accelerators like a16z CSX may run cohorts in specific cities, so check the latest cohort details. a16z crypto

Will these courses cover wallet and security best practices?
University and dev bootcamps typically include security modules; literacy hubs also publish safety guides. Always cross-check with official docs and practice in testnets. Consensys - The Ethereum Company+1

Conclusion + Related Reads

If your goal is literacy and safe onboarding, start with Binance Academy or Coinbase Learn; for academic depth, layer in Coursera (Princeton) or edX (Berkeley). Builders should choose Alchemy University (free) and consider ConsenSys Academy for mentor-led polish. For credentials, UNIC stands out. Founders ready to ship and raise should explore a16z Crypto’s CSX.

Related Reads:

  • Best Cryptocurrency Exchanges 2025

  • Top Derivatives Platforms 2025

  • Top Institutional Custody Providers 2025

Sources & Update Notes

We verified each provider’s official pages for curriculum, format, and access. Third-party datasets were used only to cross-check prominence. Updated September 2025.

  • Coursera / Princeton — “Bitcoin and Cryptocurrency Technologies” (course page; Princeton overview). Coursera+1

  • edX / UC Berkeley — “Blockchain Fundamentals” (program page & course page). edX+1

  • Binance Academy — site & topic pages. Binance+1

  • Coinbase Learn — Learn hub; tips & tutorials. Coinbase+1

  • ConsenSys Academy — Academy overview; Bootcamp details. Consensys - The Ethereum Company+1

  • Alchemy University — University overview; Solidity course page. Alchemy+1

  • Moralis Academy — Academy site; Moralis developer platform. academy.moralis.io+1

  • University of Nicosia — MOOC pages. University of Nicosia+1

  • Chainlink — Education hub; Bootcamp page; Learn resources. Chainlink+2Chainlink+2

    a16z Crypto — CSX accelerator; CSS history/update. a16z crypto+1
Research

Top Influencers/KOLs (Twitter, YouTube, TikTok) 2025

Sam Monac
7 min
MIN

Why Crypto Influencers & KOLs Matter in September 2025

The flood of information in crypto makes trusted voices indispensable. The top crypto influencers 2025 help you filter noise, spot narratives early, and pressure-test ideas across Twitter/X, YouTube, and TikTok. This guide ranks the most useful creators and media brands for research, education, and market awareness—whether you’re an individual investor, a builder, or an institution.
Definition: A crypto influencer/KOL is a creator or publication with outsized reach and demonstrated ability to shape attention, educate audiences, and surface on-chain or market insights. We emphasize track record, transparency, and multi-platform presence. Secondary terms like best crypto KOLs, crypto YouTubers, and crypto Twitter accounts are woven in naturally to match search intent.

How We Picked (Methodology & Scoring)

  • Scale & reach (30%): Multi-platform presence; consistent engagement on X/Twitter, YouTube, and/or TikTok.

  • Security & integrity (25%): Clear disclosures, brand reputation, and risk-aware education (no guaranteed-profit claims).

  • Coverage & depth (15%): Breadth of topics (macro, on-chain, DeFi, trading, security) and depth of analysis.

  • Costs (15%): Free content availability; paid tiers optional and transparent.

  • UX (10%): Clarity, production quality, and beginner-friendliness.

  • Support (5%): Community resources (newsletters, podcasts, docs, learning hubs).
    Data sources: official websites, channels, and about pages; we cross-checked scale and focus with widely cited datasets when needed. Last updated September 2025.

Top 10 Crypto Influencers & KOLs in September 2025

1. Token Metrics — Best for AI-driven research + multi-format education

Why Use It: Token Metrics combines human analysts with AI ratings and on-chain/quant models, packaging insights via YouTube shows, tutorials, and research articles. The mix of data-driven screening and narrative detection makes it a strong daily driver for both retail and pro users. YouTube+1
Best For: Retail investors, swing traders, token research teams, and institutions seeking systematic signals.
Notable Features: AI Ratings & Signals; narrative heat detection; portfolio tooling; explainers and live shows.
Fees Notes: Free videos/reports; paid analytics tiers available.
Regions: Global.
Alternatives: Coin Bureau, Bankless.

2. Coin Bureau — Best for objective explainers & deep dives

Why Use It: Guy and team are known for accessible, well-structured education across tokens, tech, and regulation—ideal for learning fast without sensationalism. Their site and channel organize guides, analysis, and “what to know before you invest” content. Coin Bureau+1
Best For: Beginners, researchers, compliance-minded readers.
Notable Features: Long-form explainers; project primers; timely macro/market narratives.
Fees Notes: Content is free; optional merchandise/membership.
Regions: Global.
Alternatives: Finematics, Token Metrics.

3. Bankless — Best for founders, DeFi, and crypto-AI crossover

Why Use It: Bankless blends interviews with founders and policymakers, DeFi primers, and a consistent macro lens. The podcast + YouTube combo and a busy newsletter make it a top “frontier finance” feed. Bankless+1
Best For: Builders, protocol teams, power users.
Notable Features: Deep interviews; airdrop and ecosystem roundups; policy/regulatory conversations.
Fees Notes: Many resources free; paid tiers/newsletters optional.
Regions: Global.
Alternatives: The Defiant (news), Coin Bureau.

4. Altcoin Daily — Best for daily news hits & narrative scanning

Why Use It: The Arnold brothers deliver high-frequency coverage of market movers, narratives, and interviews, helping you catch headlines and sentiment shifts quickly. Their channel is among the most active for crypto news. YouTube+1
Best For: News-driven traders, general crypto audiences.
Notable Features: Daily videos; interviews; quick market takes.
Fees Notes: Free content; affiliate links may appear with disclosures.
Regions: Global.
Alternatives: Crypto Banter, Token Metrics.

5. Crypto Banter — Best for live markets & trading-room energy

Why Use It: A live, broadcaster-style format covering Bitcoin, altcoins, and breaking news—with recurring hosts and trader segments. The emphasis is on real-time updates and community participation. cryptobanter.com+1
Best For: Intraday watchers, momentum traders, community-driven learning.
Notable Features: Daily live streams; trader panels; market reaction shows.
Fees Notes: Free livestreams; education and partners disclosed on site.
Regions: Global.
Alternatives: Altcoin Daily, Token Metrics.

6. Anthony Pompliano (“Pomp”) — Best for macro + business leaders

Why Use It: Pomp’s daily show and interviews bridge crypto with broader finance and tech. He brings operators, investors, and policymakers into accessible conversations. New original programming on X complements his long-running podcast. Anthony Pompliano+1
Best For: Executives, allocators, macro-minded audiences.
Notable Features: Daily investor letter; interviews; X-native programming.
Fees Notes: Free content; newsletter and media subscriptions optional.
Regions: Global.
Alternatives: Bankless, Token Metrics.

7. Finematics — Best for visual DeFi explainers

Why Use It: Finematics turns complex DeFi mechanics (AMMs, MEV, L2s) into crisp animations and threads—great for leveling up from novice to competent operator. The YouTube channel is a staple for concept mastery. YouTube+1
Best For: Students of DeFi, analysts, product managers.
Notable Features: Animated explainers; topical primers (MEV, EIPs); extra tutorials on site.
Fees Notes: Free videos; optional Patreon/course material.
Regions: Global.
Alternatives: Coin Bureau, Bankless.

8. Crypto Casey — Best for beginner-friendly, step-by-step guides

Why Use It: Clear, approachable tutorials on wallets, security, and portfolio basics; frequent refreshes for the latest best practices. Great first touch for friends and teammates new to crypto. YouTube+1
Best For: Beginners, educators, community managers.
Notable Features: Setup walk-throughs; safety tips; series for newcomers.
Fees Notes: Free channel; affiliate/sponsor disclosures in video descriptions.
Regions: Global.
Alternatives: Coin Bureau, Finematics.

9. Rekt Capital — Best for BTC cycle TA & higher-timeframe context

Why Use It: Rekt Capital focuses on disciplined, cycle-aware technical analysis, especially for Bitcoin. The research newsletter and YouTube channel offer a consistent framework for understanding halving cycles, support/resistance, and macro phases. Rekt Capital+1
Best For: Swing traders, long-term allocators, TA learners.
Notable Features: Cycle maps; weekly newsletters; educational modules.
Fees Notes: Free posts + paid tiers; clear membership options.
Regions: Global.
Alternatives: Willy Woo, Token Metrics.

10. Willy Woo (Woobull) — Best for on-chain metrics & valuation models

Why Use It: A pioneer in on-chain analytics, Willy popularized frameworks like NVT and shares models and charts used widely by analysts. His work bridges on-chain data with macro narrative, useful when markets de-correlate from headlines. charts.woobull.com+1
Best For: Data-driven investors, quant-curious traders.
Notable Features: On-chain models; charts (e.g., NVT); newsletter The Bitcoin Forecast.
Fees Notes: Free charts; paid newsletter available.
Regions: Global.
Alternatives: Token Metrics (quant + AI), Rekt Capital.

Decision Guide: Best By Use Case

  • AI-driven research hub: Token Metrics

  • Beginner education: Crypto Casey, Coin Bureau

  • DeFi mechanics & animations: Finematics

  • Live market energy: Crypto Banter

  • Daily news & narratives: Altcoin Daily

  • Macro + business leaders: Anthony Pompliano

  • BTC cycles & TA: Rekt Capital

  • On-chain metrics: Willy Woo (Woobull)

How to Choose the Right Crypto Influencer/KOL (Checklist)

  • Region & eligibility: Is content globally accessible and compliant for your jurisdiction?

  • Coverage: Do they explain why something matters (not just price)?

  • Custody & security hygiene: Do they teach self-custody, risk, and safety tools?

  • Disclosures & costs: Are sponsorships and paid tiers clearly explained?

  • UX & cadence: Format you’ll actually consume (shorts vs long-form; live vs on-demand).

  • Community & support: Newsletter, Discord, or docs for deeper follow-up.

  • Red flags: Guaranteed returns; undisclosed promotions.

Use Token Metrics With Any Influencer/KOL

  • AI Ratings to screen tokens mentioned on shows.
  • Narrative Detection to quantify momentum from social chatter to on-chain activity.

  • Portfolio Optimization to size positions by risk.

  • Alerts/Signals to monitor entries/exits after a KOL highlight.
    Mini workflow: Research → Shortlist from a KOL’s mention → Validate in Token Metrics → Execute on your exchange → Monitor with alerts.

‍

 Primary CTA: Start free trial.

Security & Compliance Tips

  • Enable 2FA everywhere; use hardware keys for critical accounts.

  • Separate research and execution (watchlists vs trading wallets).

  • Understand KYC/AML on platforms you use; avoid restricted regions.

  • For RFQs/OTC, log quotes and counterparty details.

  • Practice wallet hygiene: test sends, fresh addresses, and secure backups.

This article is for research/education, not financial advice.

Beginner Mistakes to Avoid

  • Chasing every call without a plan or position sizing.

  • Ignoring custody—keeping too much on centralized venues.

  • Confusing views with validation; always verify claims.

  • Over-indexing on TikTok “quick tips” without context.

  • Skipping risk management during high-volatility events.

FAQs

What’s the fastest way to use this list?
Pick one education-first creator (Coin Bureau or Crypto Casey) and one market-first feed (Token Metrics, Bankless, or Altcoin Daily). Use Token Metrics to validate ideas before you act. Coin Bureau+2YouTube+2

Are these KOLs region-restricted?
Content is generally global, though some platforms may geo-restrict features or embeds. Always follow local rules for trading and taxes. (Check each creator’s site/channel for access details.) Coin Bureau+1

Who’s best for on-chain metrics?
Willy Woo popularized several on-chain valuation approaches and maintains public charts on Woobull/WooCharts, useful for cycle context. charts.woobull.com+1

I’m brand-new—where should I start?
Crypto Casey and Coin Bureau offer step-by-step explainers; then layer in Token Metrics for AI-assisted idea validation and alerts. YouTube+2Coin Bureau+2

How do I avoid shill content?
Look for disclosures, independent verification, and multiple sources. Cross-check KOL mentions with Token Metrics’ ratings and narratives before allocating.

Conclusion + Related Reads

KOLs are force multipliers when you pair them with your own process. Start with one education channel and one market channel, then layer Token Metrics to validate and monitor. Over time, you’ll recognize which voices best fit your strategy.
Related Reads:

  • Best Cryptocurrency Exchanges 2025

  • Top Derivatives Platforms 2025

  • Top Institutional Custody Providers 2025

Sources & Update Notes

We verified identities, formats, and focus areas using official sites, channels, and about pages; scale and programming notes were cross-checked with publicly available profiles and posts. Updated September 2025.

Willy Woo — Woobull, WooCharts, and NVT page. Woobull+2woocharts.com+2

Choose from Platinum, Gold, and Silver packages
Reach with 25–30% open rates and 0.5–1% CTR
Craft your own custom ad—from banners to tailored copy
Perfect for Crypto Exchanges, SaaS Tools, DeFi, and AI Products