Introduction
When asked, "If you had to invest in liquid, non-venture crypto assets for 3-5 years—excluding BTC, ETH, SOL, or stablecoins—what would you choose?", prominent crypto figures shared their top picks. Here’s a curated list of their recommendations, analyzed for long-term potential.
Expert-Recommended Crypto Investments
1. Coinbase ($COIN)
Recommended by: Jesse Pollak (Base Lead)
Why?
- Diversified product suite with a scalable user base.
- Strong brand recognition and execution in blockchain innovation.
👉 Learn more about Coinbase's ecosystem
2. Worldcoin ($WLD)
Recommended by: Ansem (Crypto KOL)
Key Use Case:
- Decentralized identity verification for AI-human differentiation.
- Tied to OpenAI’s potential expansion into privacy-focused solutions.
3. Revenue-Generating Tokens
Recommended by: Qiao Wang (AllianceDAO)
Criteria:
- Tokens with strong fundamentals and sustainable revenue models.
- Avoid "zero-sum" assets without real utility.
4. Starknet ($STRK)
Recommended by: Auri (Trader)
Advantages:
- Ethereum L2 with Solana-level TPS and account abstraction.
- Potential as a Bitcoin L2 or backend infrastructure.
- Low valuation ($1B FDV vs. competitors’ $3B).
5. Jito ($JTO) & Zcash ($ZEC)
Recommended by: Mert (Helius Labs)
Rationale:
- $JTO: Tied to Solana’s ecosystem growth.
- $ZEC: Privacy coins poised for resurgence with tech upgrades.
Additional High-Potential Picks
6. Chainlink ($LINK)
Recommended by: Fishy Catfish (KOL)
Why?
- Dominates oracle services for RWA and stablecoins.
- TradFi integrations (SWIFT, JPMorgan) and privacy tools.
7. Diversified L1 Portfolio
Recommended by: Alex Svanevik (Nansen)
Assets: BNB, SUI, APT, TRX, AVAX (staked for ~4.5% yield).
8. Meme Coin with Purpose ($SPX)
Recommended by: Murad (KOL)
Niche: Cultural movement bridging finance and digital identity.
9. Established DeFi Tokens
Picks: AAVE, MKR, ENA, PENDLE, JUP
Recommended by: Arthur (DeFiance Capital)
Strengths:
- Resilient protocols with real-world adoption.
FAQ
Q1: What makes Coinbase ($COIN) a strong pick?
A: Its hybrid role as a publicly traded company and blockchain innovator provides stability and growth potential.
Q2: Why prioritize privacy coins like Zcash?
A: Regulatory scrutiny may drive demand for censorship-resistant assets.
Q3: Are meme coins like $SPX viable long-term?
A: Only if backed by a clear mission (e.g., disrupting traditional markets).
👉 Explore crypto investment strategies
Conclusion
While BTC and ETH remain staples, these expert choices highlight niches like identity, privacy, and revenue-generating tokens. Diversify wisely—focus on projects with real utility, low valuations, and TradFi bridges.
What’s your top pick for 2025?