From TikTok to Tokenomics: Gen Z’s Path to Crypto Wealth

Understand Gen Z’s Relationship with Cryptocurrencies!

Gen Z’s entry into the crypto market reveals a profound shift in how young people build wealth, manage risk, and understand asset value.

Let’s dive into this phenomenon—not just in 2025, but over the past few years. Ready?

What is Generation Z?

Generation Z refers to people born between the mid-1990s (roughly 1997–1999) and the early 2010s.

Raised during economic crises, the rise of social media, and rapid technological change, this generation has developed a critical view of traditional institutions and a much stronger openness to all things digital.

Gen Z is heavily influenced by cultural movements on platforms like TikTok, YouTube, Reddit, and Twitter, along with topics like blockchain, NFTs, DeFi, and tokenomics.

Tired of the Traditional Financial System

Many Gen Zers experienced the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis as children—and later the economic impact of the 2020 pandemic.

They saw their parents lose jobs, homes, and financial security, while banks were bailed out with trillions of dollars.

As a result, trust in the traditional financial system was shaken early on. This background created a high level of skepticism toward banks, traditional brokers, and even the U.S. dollar.

Instead of turning to classic investments like big bank stocks or Treasury bonds, many young people started learning about and investing in decentralized assets, open blockchains, and tokens with self-governance.

The Role of Social Media in Financial Education

Where older generations relied on financial advisors, formal education, or family advice, Gen Z has turned the internet into its primary financial learning hub.

Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube have become centers for personal finance and crypto education.

Influencers such as @cryptogirl, @finanzatalks, and @defidude share analyses, breakdowns, and even tutorials that rack up millions of views.

What Draws Gen Z to the Crypto World?

Accessibility and Inclusion

With just a smartphone, anyone can download a digital wallet, buy fractions of cryptocurrencies, and access DeFi protocols.

There’s no need for bank approval or income verification—making crypto far more accessible, even for those with limited capital.

Long-Term Mindset

Contrary to the stereotype of Gen Z as impulsive day traders, many young investors adopt the HODL (Hold On for Dear Life) mindset, betting on the long-term appreciation of assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and foundational Web3 projects.

Appreciation for Decentralization

The idea of participating in a financial system that operates outside government or corporate control is highly appealing to a generation that grew up amid privacy scandals and data exploitation.

Alignment with Social Values

Many crypto projects promote community governance, positive environmental impact, and public transparency—values that align well with Gen Z’s more conscious approach to spending and investing.

From Hype to Strategy: The Maturation of Gen Z Investors

While the crypto boom between 2019 and 2021 was largely driven by hype and speculation, by 2025 the landscape has matured.

Gen Z is developing financially and starting to treat their crypto portfolios with economic discipline, pursuing diversification, fundamental analysis, and technical research.

More experienced investors are moving toward advanced opportunities, such as

• Participating in lending and borrowing protocols
• Buying governance tokens in DAOs
• Investing in Web3 startup funding rounds
• Acquiring digital real estate or functional NFTs in the metaverse

The Importance of Tokenomics in Decision-Making

Tokenomics—the economics of tokens—has become one of the most important criteria for investment decisions. Gen Z understands that a project can’t just be “cool” or promising; they want to know:

• How many tokens will be issued?
• The distribution model
• The incentives for holders
• The burn mechanisms
• The actual utility of the token within the ecosystem

This reflects a clear evolution in the mindset of young investors, moving beyond initial excitement to focus on feasibility, sustainability, and long-term return.

The Risks Still Exist

Despite the enthusiasm and growing expertise, crypto investing remains high risk. Volatility, scams, and unclear regulation continue to pose challenges.

That’s why many analysts recommend that even bold Gen Z investors follow basic best practices:

• Diversify between crypto, fixed income, and stocks.
• Research each project thoroughly before investing.
• Avoid risking money you can’t afford to lose.
• Use advanced digital security (2FA, biometrics, cold storage).

Written by

Gabriel Gonçalves