Step 1: Define Your Investment FocusFirst of all, clarify what kinds of projects interest you. Are you looking at
DeFi, GameFi, Layer 1 solutions, or utility tokens? Having a clear focus helps streamline your research.
Step 2: Review the official documentation and whitepaperThis is the main source of truth for you. Go over it carefully. Seek out technical details, solutions, and problem statements. Examine the project milestones and roadmap in detail.
Step 3: Examine the Advisors and TeamExamine their histories on websites such as LinkedIn. Check their credentials and prior work in the cryptocurrency community. Are they trustworthy and open?
Step 4: Examine Tokenomics in DepthTo learn about distribution, supply schedules, and token utility, use tools such as
CoinGecko or
CoinMarketCap. Be mindful of the team's and early investors' vesting periods.
Step 5: Analyze On-Chain Data and MetricsThis is where the transparency of the blockchain really comes in handy. Make use of specialized crypto fundamental analysis tools, as well as blockchain explorers like
Etherscan and
Defillama.
Examine On-chain measurements such as
- Active Addresses: What is the number of distinct wallets that are utilizing the network right now? This suggests that user adoption is real.
- Transaction Value & Count: Does the network have a high level of economic activity? Real usage is suggested by high transaction values and counts.
- Paid Fees: Higher fees are frequently indicative of increased demand for the network's services.
- Total Value Locked (TVL): It is crucial for Defi projects because it indicates the amount of money that is locked in smart contracts, which is a sign of usefulness and trust.
- PoW Hash Rate: A higher hash rate for Proof-of-Work blockchains indicates greater security and miner trust.
- Market value to realized value: The interesting metric, also known as "realized value" or MVRV, contrasts the current market capitalization of a cryptocurrency with its "realized value," which is the total of the prices at which each coin last moved. The asset may be undervalued in relation to its historical cost if the MVRV ratio is less than 1, while overvaluation may be indicated by higher values.
- Network Value to Transaction ratio (NVT): Think of NVT as the P/E ratio of cryptocurrency. It contrasts the market capitalization of the network with the volume of daily transactions. A high NVT could indicate overvaluation since it implies the network's value is greater than its actual usage.
Participate in official social media platforms. Does the group interact with the community? Are members posing meaningful queries? Is there a lot of fear or irrational excitement, or is the atmosphere generally upbeat and productive?
Step 7: Examine the Competitive EnvironmentDon't think of the project in a vacuum. Who are its competitors? What are their advantages and disadvantages? How does your intended project identify its niche or set itself apart?
Step 8: Take Regulatory & Wider Market Considerations into AccountEven the most robust projects can be greatly impacted by general economic trends and changing cryptocurrency regulations. Keep up with the larger ecosystem.
Step 9: Integrate Your Results and Draw ConclusionsCompile all of your research. Are the foundations of this project really sound? Is it fairly priced, overpriced, or undervalued? Above all, does it fit your risk tolerance and personal investing objectives? This is the point at which your careful fundamental analysis of cryptocurrency trading results in a thoughtful choice.
Fundamental Analysis vs. Technical AnalysisFor further clarity, let's briefly compare these two important analytical approaches:
Feature | Fundamental Analysis | Technical Analysis |
Focus | Intrinsic value, the "Why" behind a crypto's worth, long-term potential | Price action, volume, the "When" to buy/sell, short-term |
Data Points | On-chain metrics, Tokenomics analysis, team, tech, community, Roadmap, and project milestones | Price charts, indicators (RSI, MACD, Bollinger Bands, moving averages) |
Goal | Identify undervalued/overvalued assets, and assess long-term viability | Predict future price movements, optimize entry/exit points |
Why do You Need Both Fundamental Analysis and Technical Analysis in Crypto Trading?Think of it this way:
fundamental analysis for cryptocurrencies is like choosing a solid company based on its strong business model and future prospects.
While Technical analysis, on the other hand, is like knowing the ideal moment to buy that company's stock at a good price. They aren't in conflict; they are powerful allies!
Understanding the underlying strength of your asset through fundamental analysis gives you the confidence to hold through changes in the market.
In order to increase your returns, technical analysis then assists you in refining your strategy by identifying the best times to enter and exit. The secret to understanding cryptocurrency fundamental analysis is combining the two for a genuinely robust and well-rounded investment strategy.
What are the Common Mistakes of Fundamental Analysis and How to Avoid Them?
The investment path may present difficulties even with a trustworthy guide to crypto fundamental analysis. Be mindful of these typical errors:
Ignoring Warning SignsEnthusiasm can occasionally cause us to ignore problems. Be critical. Serious red flags include vague whitepapers, unidentified teams with no track record, and unrealistically ambitious roadmaps. If something doesn't feel right, follow your gut.
Confirmation BiasIt's normal to look for evidence to confirm our preconceived notions. Make an effort to find data that could refute your initial assumptions or information that might contradict your initial thoughts.
Ignoring Market SentimentAlthough FA emphasizes long-term value, short-term prices can still be greatly impacted by strong market sentiments, such as excessive excitement or intense fear. Even if you have a strong long-term belief, pay attention to the overall sentiment of the market.
Low LiquidityEven if a project has great fundamentals, it may be difficult to buy or sell larger quantities without significantly altering prices if there is little liquidity and circulating supply. Check trading volumes at all times.
Regulatory UncertaintyThe regulatory environment in which the cryptocurrency industry operates is undergoing rapid change. Unfavorable policies, new taxes, or possible bans can emerge rapidly. Include this continuous risk in your analysis.
Not Regularly Re-evaluatingThe crypto space moves fast. A project’s fundamentals can change quickly due to new competitors, technical advances, or market shifts. Cryptocurrency fundamental analysis is a continuous, active process, not a one-time check.
What are the Tools and Resources for Crypto Fundamental AnalysisYou should use the following resources to conduct effective fundamental analysis of cryptocurrencies:
Data Aggregators: For brief summaries, websites such as CoinGecko and CoinMarketCap are excellent starting points. They provide information on circulating supply, market capitalization and trading volume, and links to official project websites and whitepapers. For preliminary screenings, they are helpful.
Blockchain Explorers: Etherscan, SolScan, and BscScan are like digital microscopes foryou. On-chain metrics and data, including Active Addresses, Transaction Count, Transaction Value, Fees Paid, and even the Hash Rate for Proof-of-Work blockchains, can be directly examined with them.
On-Chain Analytics Platforms: For more in-depth information, platforms such as Glassnode, Santiment, Nansen, and CryptoQuant provide sophisticated on-chain data with metrics like Network Value to Transaction ratio (NVT) and Realized Value / Market Value to Realized Value (MVRV), which can indicate market turning points.
Activity Trackers for Developers: GitHub gives you a clear picture of how a project is progressing. Active repositories and regular code contributions point to a dedicated, productive team.
Social Media & Community Platforms: Reddit, Telegram, Discord, and X (formerly Twitter) are crucial for comprehending community engagement and sentiment.
News and Industry Publications: Stay updated with reputable sources for breaking news, in-depth research, and expert perspectives.
Crypto valuation models: While these are still developing, understanding emerging crypto valuation models like adaptations of Metcalfe's Law or Stock-to-Flow models can offer additional theoretical insights.
FAQs - Cryptocurrency fundamental analysisHow to learn fundamental analysis of cryptocurrency?You can learn crypto fundamental analysis by assessing utility, tokenomics, team, roadmap, and on-chain metrics like active addresses, transaction volume, and liquidity. Use tools like CoinGecko and Glassnode for data-driven insights.
What is the difference between fundamental analysis and technical analysis?Fundamental analysis evaluates a cryptocurrency's intrinsic value by studying its project, team, tokenomics, and on-chain data. Technical analysis focuses on price charts, patterns, and market trends to predict short-term price movements.
Is fundamental analysis useful for crypto?Yes, it is. Despite the volatility in crypto markets, fundamental analysis is a valuable tool—especially for long-term investors. It helps you spot real potential, understand risks, and focus on projects with actual utility and adoption, not just price hype.
Bottom LineCryptocurrency fundamental analysis is your vital compass in the fast-paced world of digital assets, not just a tactic. It enables you to see past speculative thoughts, make well-informed choices, and construct a portfolio based on a thorough research of a project's intrinsic value, technical prowess, and market fit.
By carefully following the guidelines in this guide to crypto fundamental analysis, you can spot promising assets and improve your risk management, setting yourself up for long-term success.
Not only is it advantageous to know how to perform fundamental analysis on cryptocurrencies, but it is also the cornerstone of calculated investing.
Do You Need a Smarter, More Advanced Approach to Crypto Investing?Fundamental analysis is a powerful tool but applying it consistently requires time, experience, and constant monitoring of a fast-moving market.
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