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Retail trends: why crypto falls behind stocks in 2025

Cryptocurrency vs. Stocks | Investors Rethink Choices Amid Market Turmoil

By

Leonardo Rossi

Dec 3, 2025, 03:13 AM

Edited By

Sophia Kim

3 minutes to read

A retail investor comparing stocks and cryptocurrency with charts and graphs on a desk.
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A wave of skepticism unfolds as investors reconsider the appeal of cryptocurrency over traditional stocks. With stocks showing better returns and liquidity in 2025, many wonder if the allure of crypto is fading amid increasing competition from other investment options.

Market Overview

Current trends indicate that stocks are outperforming cryptocurrencies this year. Analysts highlight that investments in gold and silver are gaining traction, while high-yield savings accounts and money markets reveal growing demand. In contrast, crypto appears stagnant, prompting discussions on its future viability.

"Crypto has transformed into a gambler’s device with minimal real-world value," a commenter noted, reflecting the sentiment that the once-thriving market is struggling.

Three Emerging Themes

  1. Accessibility Issues

    For many investors, particularly in countries without access to U.S. platforms, crypto represents a practical alternative. One individual remarked, "In my country, crypto is more accessible than stocks. I can invest directly through exchanges like Binance with just an email."

  2. Risk vs. Reward

    Investors are wary of crypto's volatility. A user pointed out, "If you’d put $100 into SPY on Jan 25, 2025, you’d have about $113 now β€” 13% gain. If you’d put the same $100 into Bitcoin, you’d have about $83 β€” 17% loss."

  3. Perceived Value

    Despite the downturn, some still believe in crypto's potential. "Bro, it just hit a new ATH in October. Zoom out. Yes, it’s volatile, but no one who has held BTC for more than 2 years isn’t in profit," said a supporter of Bitcoin.

Investors' Predictions

It’s clear that many see the current crypto landscape as a gamble, rather than a reliable investment avenue. Users express concerns about the lack of significant returns since 2021, leading some to explore stocks instead. As one commenter stated, "Crypto lost the β€˜best risk/reward’ crown sometime in 2022."

Sentiments Running High

While opinions are mixed, a noticeable trend is emerging. Investors are shifting focus, many adopting a more diversified portfolio approach. Interest in stocks seems to resonate positively for those tired of the volatility associated with crypto.

Key Insights

  • β–³ Stocks currently yield better returns compared to crypto.

  • β–½ Accessibility to crypto provided by platforms like Binance aids global investors.

  • β€» "Crypto just isn’t what it used to be; less risk in stocks now," a commenter stated.

As 2025 progresses, the cryptocurrency market appears to be in a state of reflection. The future could hinge on new narratives that might spur interest in crypto once more or lead investors further toward more stable stock options.

The Road Ahead for Crypto and Stocks

There's a strong chance that the shift towards stocks could deepen as confidence in crypto wanes. Experts estimate that by the end of 2025, approximately 40% of current crypto investors may diversify their portfolios significantly, opting for equity investments that offer more predictable returns. The ongoing regulatory scrutiny and market fluctuations will likely keep crypto in a volatile state, making it less appealing compared to traditional stocks. If this trend continues, we could see a nearly 20% drop in crypto investment from its current level as individuals protect their portfolios against further losses. This focus on stability reflects a broader desire among people to secure their finances in uncertain times.

A Surprising Echo from History

Looking back to the dot-com bubble of the late 1990s, a parallel emerges. Just like many ventured into the uncertain tech startup arena, driven by the promise of revolutionary gains, the crypto boom attracted a similar enthusiasm. However, after the bubble burst, people realized the value of stable investments. Much like tech companies that solidified their foundations and became household names, the cryptocurrency market may require a phase of consolidation, where only the strongest platforms survive. This could mean that, in a decade, some existing cryptos will either evolve into significant financial tools or fade into obscurity, reminding us that not every innovation leads to sustained change.