According to Google Trends data, the search volume for 'altcoins' reached its highest level since 2021, while interest in 'Ethereum' also peaked at a two-year high. This trend coincided with a surge in cryptocurrency-related ETF activity and a shift in financial strategies for digital assets, potentially drawing attention to investments beyond Bitcoin.
Google Trends previously recorded a similar surge. For instance, in early 2018, the search volume for altcoins surged at a time when interest in emerging cryptocurrencies from Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) was high following the Bitcoin craze.
In the first half of 2025, U.S. regulators received at least 31 applications for altcoin ETFs. Notably, Ganari Capital submitted a proposal for a SUI spot ETF in March. Subsequently, Cboe BZX applied for approval to list Ganari's fund, which could become the first ETF in the U.S. to hold SUI.
Analysts at Bloomberg Intelligence are optimistic about the approval of other altcoin ETFs. They believe the probability of obtaining approval is as high as 95%, with Solana, XRP, and Litecoin ETFs having a strong chance of approval.
Cryptocurrency Financial Strategies Beyond Bitcoin
Corporate financial strategies are expanding to include a broader portfolio of altcoins. Ethereum (ETH) has become the preferred reserve asset for several companies. Companies like Metaplanet, BitMine, and SharpLink Gaming collectively hold billions of dollars in ETH and, in many cases, stake these holdings to earn additional returns.
DeFi Development Corp. holds nearly one million SOL, worth about $200 million, and earns returns through staking.
The Rise of Altcoins
Data from CoinGecko indicates that altcoins have continued to grow in recent weeks. The price of Ethereum has climbed 30% in the past seven days and is up 78% year-to-date, currently trading near its all-time high.
