Locked Tokens Leave Crypto Investors With 75% Losses
The crypto market is facing a harsh reality for investors who bet on locked tokens. According to recent data, between May 2024 and April 2025, these investors recorded an average loss of 50% compared to over-the-counter (OTC) valuations, worsening distrust towards new projects.
In Brief
- Locked tokens generated average losses of 50%, worsening crypto investors’ distrust.
- Over 40 billion dollars in altcoins will soon be unlocked, increasing market pressure.
- In 2025, only strong projects with high demand will succeed in standing out.
Severe Losses for Holders of Locked Tokens
Between May 2024 and April 2025, investors who bought locked tokens suffered an average loss of 50% compared to over-the-counter valuations, according to STIX. Some cryptos like Scroll (SCR) and Blast (BLAST) dropped by more than 85%, while Eigenlayer (EIGEN) lost 75%. In comparison, the overall crypto market fell by only 40.7% during the same period. The contrast is even more stark against Bitcoin (BTC), which gained 45% in the same timeframe.
Moreover, a dollar invested in a locked token would currently be worth only 0.25 dollar on the OTC market. These alarming results illustrate the major risk associated with prolonged vesting periods, which prevent any quick exit and expose crypto investors to uncontrolled price drops.
Consequences for the Crypto Market and 2025 Forecasts
With more than 40 billion dollars in locked altcoins about to be released, the crypto market could face massive selling pressure. This excess supply is likely to prolong the bearish trend on new projects.
However, the shortening of vesting periods observed in 2025 could partially limit the damage. Analysts anticipate a more selective market: only crypto projects showing strong traction and sustained organic demand should succeed in outperforming this year.
Facing historic losses of nearly 100 million dollars and the massive arrival of tokens on the market, caution is more necessary than ever in the crypto world. In 2025, only solid projects will survive this pressure. Investors will need to be extra vigilant to navigate an environment that has become much more selective.
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The world is evolving and adaptation is the best weapon to survive in this undulating universe. Originally a crypto community manager, I am interested in anything that is directly or indirectly related to blockchain and its derivatives. To share my experience and promote a field that I am passionate about, nothing is better than writing informative and relaxed articles.
The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this article belong solely to the author, and should not be taken as investment advice. Do your own research before taking any investment decisions.