Investors Diverge in Crypto Market 67% of Institutional Portfolios in Major Assets 37% for Individuals

In the first half of 2025, the investment strategies of institutional and individual investors in the cryptocurrency market diverged significantly. According to a report by Wintermute, a major market maker, institutional investors predominantly focused on large-cap assets such as Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH). These investors maintained their allocations in major cryptocurrencies at 67% through various inflows, including ETFs. This strategy reflects a more conservative and stable approach, prioritizing established and widely recognized digital assets.

In contrast, individual investors showed a strong preference for altcoins and memecoins. Their portfolios held only 37% in major cryptocurrencies, with the remaining investments spread across a variety of emerging tokens. Memecoins like Bonk (BONK), Dogwifhat (WIF), and Popcat (POPCAT) gained significant traction among retail investors, challenging the dominance of traditional memecoins such as Dogecoin (DOGE) and Shiba Inu (SHIB). This trend indicates a higher risk tolerance and a greater appetite for speculative investments among individual investors.

The report also highlighted the potential impact of regulatory decisions on market dynamics. A potential SEC approval decision on spot Dogecoin ETFs in October could further boost interest from individual investors, potentially driving more capital into the memecoin sector. This regulatory development underscores the influence of external factors on investment trends and the importance of staying informed about policy changes.

Wintermute CEO Evgeny Gaevoy commented on the growing disparity between institutional and individual investors, noting that it signifies a maturing market. "Investors are no longer following the same trend. While institutions view cryptocurrencies as macro assets, individual investors continue to gravitate towards innovation," Gaevoy stated. This observation suggests that the cryptocurrency market is evolving, with different segments of investors adopting distinct strategies based on their risk profiles and investment goals.