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After 9 years in crypto, why i stopped believing

Crypto Disillusionment | Veteran Investor Exits Amid Market Chaos

By

Elena Petrov

Jan 21, 2026, 02:10 PM

Edited By

Alice Turner

Updated

Jan 23, 2026, 08:01 AM

2 minutes needed to read

A person looks thoughtful while sitting in front of a computer displaying cryptocurrency charts, symbolizing their journey in the crypto market.
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A former investor, who joined the crypto scene in 2017, has voiced increasing frustration with a market perceived as saturated with speculative trends and memecoins. Following a major hack in October 2024 that slashed his portfolio, he reflects on the disillusionment that has set in over nearly a decade.

The Allure Fades Away

Initially captivated by Bitcoin and Ethereum, he found the concept of a decentralized financial system compelling. "New money, unfazed by banks and governments, was captivating," he shared. As the years progressed, this vision dimmed as volatility surged and speculative trading became rampant.

In 2021, amid a DeFi boom, he claimed his investments multiplied tenfold, stating, "Every peak felt like the beginning, but every dip turned into a losing opportunity." His portfolio, once at $30,000, plummeted below $10,000 during the bear market of 2022.

Hack Heightens Discontent

The 2024 incident involving Radiant Capital marked a turning point. The hack eradicated about $15,000 of his holdings. "Years of disciplined investing wiped out in an instant due to one protocol’s failure," he lamented. This loss fundamentally reshaped his view of the crypto landscape, now defined by what he calls "trivially launched memecoins and gambling-like speculation."

Frustration was reflected across community forums, with users echoing his stance. A commenter stated, "Crypto has become a tool for grifters to amass wealth," while another noted, "This space is exhausting." Such sentiments resonate widely, suggesting a collective disillusionment with the industry.

Seeking Stability Amid Chaos

Though holding a minor crypto investment, he has shifted towards stable options like index funds. "I’m tired of chasing after risky plays," he emphasized, mirroring a broader trend of reassessment among investors. Many comments reflect this sentiment, with users similarly seeking a return to stability and traditional investments.

Community Insights

The community continues to share experiences highlighting a need for more purposeful financial direction rather than speculative ventures.

  • 🚨 "Every day, new cryptos are born, but the liquidity isn’t there to support them," commented a long-term participant.

  • 🧐 "Crypto is just speculative internet money, nothing more," added another member, illustrating the general skepticism toward the industry's future.

  • πŸ’‘ "If you’re holding your coins on a platform, you’re risking your funds, no matter the potential yields,” warned another.

Major Takeaways

  • β–³ The 2024 hack has pushed many investors to reconsider crypto protocols.

  • β–½ A growing trend towards index funds signals a retreat from speculative assets.

  • β€» β€œToo many scams are lurking. The innovation we sought remains out of reach,” shared a frustrated community member.

As the future of cryptocurrency unfolds, the calls for genuine innovation and security appear louder than ever. The experiences of this investor may resonate with many other individuals wrestling with the realities of a market they once believed could change the financial world.