The NFT market concluded 2024 with a sales volume of $8.83 billion, slightly higher than the previous year. However, it fell short of the peak volumes seen in 2021 and 2022.
Ethereum and Bitcoin were the leading blockchains in the NFT space, with Solana trailing behind. December saw an increase in NFT activity, with sales reaching $877 million. Collections like Pudgy Penguins and other prominent collections contributed to this figure. Despite uncertainties, industry executives express optimism that NFT volumes could reach billions monthly as the broader crypto industry expands.
Morgan Stanley plans to introduce crypto trading on E-Trade, influenced by anticipated crypto-friendly policies from the incoming Trump administration. This move aligns with the growing recognition that cryptocurrencies are becoming a permanent fixture in the financial landscape. Traditional brokerages like Robinhood have demonstrated the revenue-boosting potential of integrating crypto. Morgan Stanley's existing presence in the crypto sphere positions it well for this expansion.
Bitcoin ETFs, led by BlackRock, are nearing a combined total of $110 billion in holdings. This represents approximately 5.7% of Bitcoin's circulating supply. The consistent buying activity from institutional vehicles has provided substantial support to Bitcoin's price. Some experts forecast that Bitcoin could reach $200,000 by 2025, citing increased investor interest, a more favorable regulatory environment, and the upcoming halving event. However, Bitcoin must overcome significant resistance before retesting its all-time high.
The NFT market's performance in 2024 and traditional brokerages exploring crypto features indicate a shift towards broader acceptance and integration of digital assets. The interplay between traditional finance and the crypto world is becoming more pronounced, with major financial institutions recognizing the potential of digital assets. The landscape is poised for further innovation across NFTs, brokerage integrations, and crypto ETFs in 2025.