This article presents a series of predictions for the crypto world in 2024, covering Ethereum Layer2 networks, Bitcoin ecosystems, Web3 gaming, modular blockchains, DeFi, and DePIN. Originally shared on Twitter (X) with nearly 500k reads, we’ve republished it here for our audience.
Disclaimer: These predictions are purely speculative, biased, and should not be taken as investment advice. Treat them as entertainment.
Key Predictions for 2024
1. Ethereum Layer2 Dominance
- Layer2 (L2) will remain one of the most critical narratives in 2024. The Dencun upgrade will drastically reduce L2 fees, triggering an ecosystem explosion. Expect growth in gaming, perps, DeFi, NFTs, social, and DePIN on L2s.
- Major L2s like Arbitrum, Optimism, zkSync, Starknet, and Blast will compete with high-performance blockchains. Post-EIP-4844, L2s will match these chains in speed and cost efficiency. The Arbitrum vs. Solana rivalry will be a highlight.
- zkSync will introduce an economic mechanism, becoming a key driver for L2 growth.
- Starknet could break through via full-chain gaming narratives.
- At least one L2 project will hit a $100B diluted market cap**, potentially **$300B at peak cycle.
2. Bitcoin Ecosystem Expansion
- The inscription movement has unlocked Bitcoin’s potential. Teams are exploring decentralized indexing, inscription evolution, cross-chain solutions, ZK proofs, and L2s. Progress here could accelerate BTC-ETH ecosystem fusion.
- Bitcoin’s evolution will be one of the most captivating developments this cycle.
3. Ethereum’s Evolution
- Ethereum L1 will transition into a B2B chain, with most user activity shifting to L2/L3 or high-performance L1s. ETH will solidify its role as crypto’s foundational asset.
- Modular blockchains will elevate Ethereum as the primary settlement layer, outsourcing execution and DA layers while maintaining security-driven value capture.
4. Modular Blockchain & DA Competition
- Modularity remains a key 2024 narrative, especially in DA layer competition. Ethereum’s restaking sector will join the fray.
- Cosmos and Solana will advance—Cosmos via modularity, Solana via apps. Solana may integrate deeper with Ethereum’s ecosystem.
5. Web3 Gaming Breakthrough
- At least one game on L2/L3 (e.g., Arbitrum, Starknet) will surpass 1M users. The Arbitrum-based gaming chain could lead this charge.
- Magic’s interoperability innovations may redefine Web3 gaming.
6. NFT & Meme Revival
- NFTs, memes, and inscriptions will rebound, boosting NFT DEX volumes and paving the way for NFT perps.
- Celebrities may enter these spaces.
FAQs
Q: Which L2 project has the highest growth potential?
A: zkSync and Starknet are strong contenders, especially with zkSync’s upcoming economic model and Starknet’s gaming focus.
Q: Will Bitcoin’s ecosystem rival Ethereum’s?
A: Unlikely this cycle, but BTC’s innovations (e.g., inscriptions, L2s) could foster deeper collaboration between the two.
Q: What’s the next big trend after modular blockchains?
A: DePIN (decentralized physical infrastructure) and AI protocols on L2s/high-performance chains may emerge as 2024 narratives.