What did we learn from the crypto market in 2021?

The CoinDesk Research Annual Crypto Review for 2021 examines some of the key themes and metrics that marked the year’s progress in cryptocurrency markets. Thanks to 2021, most people have at least heard of crypto by now – not just Bitcoin and Ethereum, but altcoins like DOGE and SHIB, as well as terms like NFTs and the metaverse.

How did Ethereum outpace bitcoin in 2021?

Ethereum greatly outpaced bitcoin in 2021, returning 399.2% as the popularity boom of NFTs and creation of DeFi 2.0 protocols like Olympus (OHM) expanded possible use-cases. But with the rise of network activity, a 50% increase in transfers in 2021, Ethereum gas fees surged.

Should crypto be regulated?

Regulators’ involvement in and discussion of crypto is indicative of the widespread belief that crypto is here to stay and therefore should be regulated to “keep citizens safe.” Overall, 2021 was an extraordinary year for the cryptocurrency and blockchain industry.

How much money did blockchain and crypto companies raise in 2021?

Inside the world of institutions and regulation, capital poured into blockchain and crypto companies. According to data from Blockdata, $23 billion of funding reached these companies in 2021, which is more than the total amount raised from 2017 to 2020.