GITNUX REPORT 2024

Global NFT Industry Surges: Sales Reach $24.9 Billion in 2021

Diving into the Explosive Growth of the NFT Industry: From $15.54B to Projected Surge.

Author: Jannik Lindner

First published: 7/17/2024

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Ethereum blockchain accounts for 80% of the NFT market share

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In 2021, NFT trading volume on the Solana blockchain reached $2.5 billion

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The average gas fee for minting an NFT on Ethereum was $70 in 2021

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The number of NFT collections on the Binance Smart Chain increased by 300% in Q3 2021

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The average gas fee for transferring an NFT on Ethereum was $35 in 2021

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The Asia Pacific region accounted for over 30% of the global NFT market share in 2021

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The NFT market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 33.9% from 2022 to 2030

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The sports NFT market is expected to reach $41.6 billion by 2032

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The number of active NFT projects increased by 299% in 2021

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The number of NFT-related trademark applications in the US increased by 400% in 2021

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The total value of NFT sales in the virtual real estate sector is projected to reach $1 billion by 2025

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The number of NFT-related job postings increased by 395% in 2021

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The number of NFT-related venture capital deals increased by 511% in 2021

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The art segment accounted for over 14% share of the global NFT market revenue in 2021

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The gaming segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 35.1% from 2022 to 2030

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The sports segment of the NFT market is projected to reach $2.6 billion by 2022

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NFT sales in the metaverse sector reached $514 million in 2021

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The collectibles segment accounted for over 38% of the NFT market share in 2021

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The music NFT market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 44.2% from 2021 to 2028

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The utility segment of the NFT market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 35.5% from 2022 to 2030

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The fashion and luxury goods NFT market is expected to reach $2.8 billion by 2028

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NFT sales in the art category reached $2.8 billion in 2021

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The music NFT market size was valued at $1.36 billion in 2021

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The gaming NFT market is projected to reach $3.6 billion by 2028

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The utility and collectibles segments combined accounted for over 50% of NFT market share in 2021

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The total value of NFT sales in the real estate sector reached $500 million in 2021

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The fashion NFT market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 40.2% from 2022 to 2030

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The total value of NFT sales in the music industry reached $86 million in 2021

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The total value of NFT sales in the sports memorabilia sector reached $900 million in 2021

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The total value of NFT sales in the digital art sector reached $2.8 billion in 2021

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The global NFT market size was valued at USD 15.54 billion in 2021

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The total market cap of the top 100 NFT collections reached $16.7 billion in January 2022

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The total market cap of NFT-related cryptocurrencies reached $16.5 billion in January 2022

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OpenSea, the largest NFT marketplace, had a trading volume of $14 billion in 2021

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NFT marketplace Rarible saw a 634% increase in sales volume from 2020 to 2021

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The number of NFT collections on OpenSea grew by 741% in 2021

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The number of NFT marketplaces increased by 236% in 2021

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The Bored Ape Yacht Club NFT collection has generated over $2 billion in total sales

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The average price of a CryptoPunk NFT in 2021 was $185,000

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The total trading volume of NBA Top Shot NFTs reached $700 million in 2021

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The average price of an NFT land parcel in Decentraland was $6,000 in 2021

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The average price of an Axie Infinity NFT was $200 in 2021

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The most expensive NFT sold to date is 'The Merge' by Pak for $91.8 million

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The most expensive CryptoPunk NFT sold for $23.7 million in February 2022

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The most expensive virtual land NFT sold for $4.3 million in The Sandbox metaverse

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The most expensive domain name NFT sold for $8 million in 2021

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The most expensive virtual fashion NFT sold for $125,000 in 2021

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In Q1 2022, the average NFT sale price was $2,260

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The average price of an NFT on the Ethereum blockchain in 2021 was $3,000

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The average NFT royalty percentage is between 5% and 10%

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The average NFT collection size is 5,000 to 10,000 items

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The average NFT transaction value increased by 480% in 2021

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In 2021, the total NFT sales volume reached $24.9 billion

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In 2021, the number of NFT transactions increased by 21,350% compared to 2020

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The number of unique NFT buyers grew from 545,000 in 2020 to 28.6 million in 2021

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The number of active NFT wallets increased by 97% in 2021

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The number of unique NFT sellers increased by 372% in 2021

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The number of unique NFT buyers on the Solana blockchain increased by 2,400% in Q4 2021

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The number of unique NFT buyers on the Flow blockchain increased by 700% in 2021

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The number of unique NFT creators increased by 290% in 2021

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66% of US consumers are aware of NFTs

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The number of NFT-related Google searches increased by 426% in 2021

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72% of NFT art buyers are motivated by the investment opportunity

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The average holding period for an NFT is 48 days

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The average holding time for NFTs in the art category is 65 days

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Summary

  • The global NFT market size was valued at USD 15.54 billion in 2021
  • The NFT market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 33.9% from 2022 to 2030
  • In 2021, the total NFT sales volume reached $24.9 billion
  • The most expensive NFT sold to date is 'The Merge' by Pak for $91.8 million
  • Ethereum blockchain accounts for 80% of the NFT market share
  • The art segment accounted for over 14% share of the global NFT market revenue in 2021
  • The gaming segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 35.1% from 2022 to 2030
  • OpenSea, the largest NFT marketplace, had a trading volume of $14 billion in 2021
  • The number of unique NFT buyers grew from 545,000 in 2020 to 28.6 million in 2021
  • In Q1 2022, the average NFT sale price was $2,260
  • The Bored Ape Yacht Club NFT collection has generated over $2 billion in total sales
  • The sports segment of the NFT market is projected to reach $2.6 billion by 2022
  • 72% of NFT art buyers are motivated by the investment opportunity
  • The average holding period for an NFT is 48 days
  • NFT sales in the metaverse sector reached $514 million in 2021

With the NFT market buzzing like a virtual beehive, its no surprise that the numbers are painting a picture worth more than a thousand words – try billions! From the stratospheric sales volumes to the mind-boggling growth rates, the NFT industry is proving to be more than just a passing fad. Brace yourself for a journey through a digital realm where $91.8 million artworks and $700 million NBA Top Shot highlights are just the tip of the blockchain iceberg.

Blockchain Dominance

  • Ethereum blockchain accounts for 80% of the NFT market share
  • In 2021, NFT trading volume on the Solana blockchain reached $2.5 billion
  • The average gas fee for minting an NFT on Ethereum was $70 in 2021
  • The number of NFT collections on the Binance Smart Chain increased by 300% in Q3 2021
  • The average gas fee for transferring an NFT on Ethereum was $35 in 2021

Interpretation

In the wild world of NFTs, the Ethereum blockchain reigns supreme with an 80% market share, while Solana struts its stuff with a $2.5 billion trading volume in 2021. Minting an NFT on Ethereum has seemingly become a luxury sport, with an average gas fee of $70, while transferring one is a more budget-friendly endeavor at $35. Meanwhile, the Binance Smart Chain is frantically trying to keep up, boasting a 300% increase in NFT collections in Q3 2021. So, while the NFT landscape may be a rollercoaster of gas fees and chain dominance, one thing is clear: digital art is not just for the faint of heart, but for those willing to splash some virtual cash for a piece of the blockchain pie.

Geographic Distribution

  • The Asia Pacific region accounted for over 30% of the global NFT market share in 2021

Interpretation

As the NFT market continues to soar to new heights, the Asia Pacific region's dominance of over 30% in 2021 showcases an undeniable appetite for digital art and collectibles. Like a dragon hoarding treasures, this region has seized a significant chunk of the NFT market share, swooping in with a blend of traditional appreciation for art and cutting-edge technological savvy. It's clear that Asia Pacific isn't just leading the charge in sushi and K-pop; they're also setting trends in the digital realm, proving that when it comes to NFTs, the East is rising in more ways than one.

Market Growth

  • The NFT market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 33.9% from 2022 to 2030
  • The sports NFT market is expected to reach $41.6 billion by 2032
  • The number of active NFT projects increased by 299% in 2021
  • The number of NFT-related trademark applications in the US increased by 400% in 2021
  • The total value of NFT sales in the virtual real estate sector is projected to reach $1 billion by 2025
  • The number of NFT-related job postings increased by 395% in 2021
  • The number of NFT-related venture capital deals increased by 511% in 2021

Interpretation

As the NFT industry rides the wave of explosive growth, it seems that non-fungible tokens are not just making headlines but also making serious numbers pop. With a CAGR that puts compound interest to shame, and figures like $41.6 billion dancing in the sports NFT market's future, it's clear that this digital revolution is no passing fad. From a steep rise in active projects to trademark applications skyrocketing and the NFT job market heating up, one thing is undeniably clear - in the virtual realm, the only way is up. So, whether you're eyeing virtual real estate riches or surfing the NFT venture capital wave, it's time to jump on board or risk being left behind in the analog dust.

Market Segments

  • The art segment accounted for over 14% share of the global NFT market revenue in 2021
  • The gaming segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 35.1% from 2022 to 2030
  • The sports segment of the NFT market is projected to reach $2.6 billion by 2022
  • NFT sales in the metaverse sector reached $514 million in 2021
  • The collectibles segment accounted for over 38% of the NFT market share in 2021
  • The music NFT market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 44.2% from 2021 to 2028
  • The utility segment of the NFT market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 35.5% from 2022 to 2030
  • The fashion and luxury goods NFT market is expected to reach $2.8 billion by 2028
  • NFT sales in the art category reached $2.8 billion in 2021
  • The music NFT market size was valued at $1.36 billion in 2021
  • The gaming NFT market is projected to reach $3.6 billion by 2028
  • The utility and collectibles segments combined accounted for over 50% of NFT market share in 2021
  • The total value of NFT sales in the real estate sector reached $500 million in 2021
  • The fashion NFT market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 40.2% from 2022 to 2030
  • The total value of NFT sales in the music industry reached $86 million in 2021
  • The total value of NFT sales in the sports memorabilia sector reached $900 million in 2021
  • The total value of NFT sales in the digital art sector reached $2.8 billion in 2021

Interpretation

In a world where pixels hold more value than Picassos, the NFT market is a playground of innovation and speculation. With art reigning supreme as the poster child of this digital renaissance, it seems everyone wants a piece of the virtual pie - from gamers leveling up their NFT game at a blistering pace to sports enthusiasts scoring big with $2.6 billion projections in their playbook. With music set to hit high notes of growth and utility and collectibles joining forces to rule over half of the NFT kingdom, it's clear that this digital revolution is just getting started. So strap in, fashionistas, real estate moguls, and music maestros - the NFT train is leaving the station, and the ride promises to be one wild, unpredictable, and endlessly fascinating journey.

Market Size

  • The global NFT market size was valued at USD 15.54 billion in 2021
  • The total market cap of the top 100 NFT collections reached $16.7 billion in January 2022
  • The total market cap of NFT-related cryptocurrencies reached $16.5 billion in January 2022

Interpretation

The NFT industry's meteoric rise is blazing through financial records like a wildfire fueled by digital art and blockchain technology. With a market size that swelled to $15.54 billion in 2021, the allure of non-fungible tokens is unmistakable, as demonstrated by the top 100 NFT collections hitting a combined market cap of $16.7 billion by January 2022. Not to be outshone, NFT-related cryptocurrencies are also riding high on this wave, boasting a market cap of $16.5 billion in the same period. In a world where virtual assets can now rival their physical counterparts in value, it seems the old saying "money talks" has been given a tech-savvy twist.

Marketplaces

  • OpenSea, the largest NFT marketplace, had a trading volume of $14 billion in 2021
  • NFT marketplace Rarible saw a 634% increase in sales volume from 2020 to 2021
  • The number of NFT collections on OpenSea grew by 741% in 2021
  • The number of NFT marketplaces increased by 236% in 2021

Interpretation

In a world where digital art can sell for millions, the NFT industry is not just creating buzz, but also bringing in the big bucks. With OpenSea's trading volume hitting a whopping $14 billion in 2021 and Rarible witnessing a jaw-dropping 634% surge in sales volume, it's clear that non-fungible tokens are not just a trend, but a serious market force to be reckoned with. As the number of NFT collections on OpenSea multiplied by 741% and the NFT marketplaces themselves expanded by 236% in the same year, one thing is certain—virtual assets are driving very real profits. The digital age of art and collectibles is here to stay, impacting not just galleries, but wallets too.

Notable Collections

  • The Bored Ape Yacht Club NFT collection has generated over $2 billion in total sales
  • The average price of a CryptoPunk NFT in 2021 was $185,000
  • The total trading volume of NBA Top Shot NFTs reached $700 million in 2021
  • The average price of an NFT land parcel in Decentraland was $6,000 in 2021
  • The average price of an Axie Infinity NFT was $200 in 2021

Interpretation

The NFT industry continues to disrupt the traditional art and gaming sectors with eye-watering figures that would make even the most seasoned investor do a double-take. From digital apes sailing on virtual yachts to pixelated punks commanding six-figure sums, it's clear that the market for non-fungible tokens has truly set sail. Whether you're trading basketball highlights or virtual land parcels, it seems the only way is up for this blockchain bonanza. Just remember, in this digital gold rush, even a humble Axie can fetch a pretty penny.

Notable Sales

  • The most expensive NFT sold to date is 'The Merge' by Pak for $91.8 million
  • The most expensive CryptoPunk NFT sold for $23.7 million in February 2022
  • The most expensive virtual land NFT sold for $4.3 million in The Sandbox metaverse
  • The most expensive domain name NFT sold for $8 million in 2021
  • The most expensive virtual fashion NFT sold for $125,000 in 2021

Interpretation

The rising prices in the NFT market have turned digital assets into prized possessions coveted by the wealthy and the trendsetters alike. From multimillion-dollar digital artworks like 'The Merge' to virtual real estate in The Sandbox metaverse, and even high-end virtual fashion pieces, the NFT industry is reshaping the concept of ownership in the digital age with price tags that command attention. As the market continues to redefine what is considered valuable and collectible in the digital realm, one thing is clear: the virtual world is no longer just a playground, but a high-stakes arena for those with a keen eye for unique assets and deep pockets to match.

Sales Metrics

  • In Q1 2022, the average NFT sale price was $2,260
  • The average price of an NFT on the Ethereum blockchain in 2021 was $3,000
  • The average NFT royalty percentage is between 5% and 10%
  • The average NFT collection size is 5,000 to 10,000 items
  • The average NFT transaction value increased by 480% in 2021

Interpretation

In the ever-evolving world of NFTs, it seems the only thing not fluctuating wildly is the wit of the buyers. With an average NFT sale price in Q1 2022 of $2,260, down from the 2021 average of $3,000, one might assume collectors are seeking bargains. However, don't be fooled by the seemingly decreasing numbers, as the average NFT transaction value spiked by a whopping 480% in 2021. It appears that while the prices may be shifting, the enthusiasm for digital ownership remains steadfast, with royalty percentages and collection sizes holding steady. In this digital art market, one thing is for certain—it pays to stay on your toes... or perhaps your fingertips, ready to click 'purchase' on the next big NFT deal.

Sales Volume

  • In 2021, the total NFT sales volume reached $24.9 billion
  • In 2021, the number of NFT transactions increased by 21,350% compared to 2020

Interpretation

In a world where digital assets are changing hands faster than you can say "blockchain," the NFT industry is making traditional investments look like yesterday's news. With a total sales volume of $24.9 billion in 2021 and a jaw-dropping 21,350% increase in transactions from the previous year, it's clear that NFTs are not just a trend - they're a force to be reckoned with. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, one thing's for sure: the digital revolution is here, and it's bringing a whole new meaning to the term "valuable art."

User Adoption

  • The number of unique NFT buyers grew from 545,000 in 2020 to 28.6 million in 2021
  • The number of active NFT wallets increased by 97% in 2021
  • The number of unique NFT sellers increased by 372% in 2021
  • The number of unique NFT buyers on the Solana blockchain increased by 2,400% in Q4 2021
  • The number of unique NFT buyers on the Flow blockchain increased by 700% in 2021
  • The number of unique NFT creators increased by 290% in 2021

Interpretation

The NFT industry is riding a rocket ship to the moon, with more unique buyers jumping on board than there are flavors of artisanal ice cream. From a mere 545,000 in 2020 to a whopping 28.6 million in 2021, it seems everyone and their dog is trying to get in on the NFT action. With active wallets multiplying like meme coins in a crypto bull run and unique sellers popping up faster than new Instagram influencers, it's clear that NFTs have become the hottest trend since avocado toast. And let's not forget the Solana and Flow blockchains, where unique buyers have surged by percentages that are almost as mind-boggling as trying to understand the Matrix sequels. In this digital renaissance, it seems there's no shortage of creators turning their visions into pixelated gold at a rate that would make even Bob Ross nod in approval. So buckle up, folks, because in the NFT world, the only way is up—just like the bids on a rare CryptoPunk.

User Awareness

  • 66% of US consumers are aware of NFTs
  • The number of NFT-related Google searches increased by 426% in 2021

Interpretation

As the digital art world continues to evolve, it seems the buzz around NFTs is spreading faster than a viral meme. With 66% of US consumers tuning into the NFT craze and Google searches skyrocketing by a cool 426% in 2021, it's clear that non-fungible tokens are not just a passing trend but a signal of a digital revolution at play. Whether you see NFTs as the future of art ownership or the modern-day equivalent of tulip mania, one thing is certain: the world is watching, and the possibilities are as limitless as the blockchain itself.

User Behavior

  • 72% of NFT art buyers are motivated by the investment opportunity
  • The average holding period for an NFT is 48 days
  • The average holding time for NFTs in the art category is 65 days

Interpretation

In the rapidly evolving world of NFTs, it seems that art collectors are not only appreciating the beauty of digital art but also eyeing the potential lucrative returns. With 72% of NFT art buyers motivated by investment opportunities, it's clear that the allure of financial gain is a significant driving force behind the growing popularity of non-fungible tokens. However, the relatively short average holding periods of 48 days across all NFTs and 65 days specifically for art NFTs suggest a certain degree of impatience or perhaps strategic trading tactics at play in this dynamic market. Whether these fleeting trends are a sign of savvy investment maneuvers or simply whimsical digital pursuits, only time will tell in this fascinating intersection of art and finance.

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