Data: 60% of the most popular cryptocurrencies at their five-year peaks have fallen over 90%, with only 12 posting positive returns.
Source:
mp.weixin.qq.com
According to a report by The Paper's Meishuke, in 2021, the total global cryptocurrency market capitalization surged to $2.62 trillion, reaching a historic peak. Five years later, Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Tether (USDT) remain the three pillars of the crypto market. As of August 31, 2026, their combined market capitalization accounts for approximately 78% of the global total, with Bitcoin alone representing nearly 60%. However, among the cryptocurrencies that ranked in the Top 100 in 2021, only 12 have currently posted positive returns, three no longer have valid price quotes, and nearly 60% have cumulative declines exceeding 90%.