Only 1 in 10 Weak Token Launches Recovered in 2025: Arrakis
The Defiant
by Denis OmelchenkoFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Only 10% of token launches in 2025 successfully recovered, according to a comprehensive analysis by Arrakis Finance. The study, which reviewed over 125 token generation events (TGEs) and surveyed more than 25 founding teams, revealed that the majority of new tokens struggled to find long-term success. A staggering 85% of tokens launched in 2025 ended up below their initial price point, highlighting the challenges faced by new projects in the crypto and DeFi space.
The data underscores that early trading dynamics played a pivotal role in determining the trajectory of token performance. Many tokens experienced significant sell pressure immediately after listing, which often led to sustained losses throughout the year. This finding challenges the common belief that market timing is the primary factor for success, suggesting instead that post-launch behavior and investor sentiment are critical determinants.
The study also sheds light on the broader implications for the crypto ecosystem. The high failure rate of token launches raises questions about the sustainability of DeFi projects and the risks associated with investing in new tokens. As the market continues to evolve, understanding these dynamics
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Originally published on The Defiant on 2/20/2026