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Venture capital firms have invested $707 million in metaverse projects, accounting for a substantial 44% of total Web3 investments. DappRadar has revealed this circumstance in its report.
This metric indicates the high demand from investors eagerly embracing the metaverse. Nearly half of all VC investments in the first half of 2023 have been allocated to this sector.
Investors’ attention has shifted towards artificial intelligence (AI) startups in 2023. This transition has resulted in a notable decline of 66% in funding for startups operating in the metaverse space. The decrease reflects the current state of the global economy, which is grappling with various challenges in different sectors, including augmented reality, virtual reality, and virtual world industries.
Nevertheless, the metaverse projects have received an impressive investment of $707 million. It is a noteworthy feat considering the projected industry growth from $416.02 billion in 2023 to an astonishing $3,409.29 billion by 2027. A report by Fortune Business Insights reveals that this signifies an incredible compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 69.2%.
Digital Land In A Bit of A Slump
The virtual world market started in 2023 with a bang on the high-speed digital expressway. During the first quarter, the trading volume of digital land soared by an astonishing 277%, amounting to an impressive $311 million in total trading value.
Notably, Q1 2023 stood out as the most prosperous quarter for virtual worlds since the Terra Luna crash in May 2022. Additionally, land trades surged to an all-time high of 146,690, marking an 83.56% increase from the previous quarter. However, the narrative took a sharp and distinct turn in Q2.
Unfortunately, the second quarter experienced a sharp downfall as trade volumes plunged by a staggering 81%. Furthermore, land sales also saw a drop of 75% to 35,522. The market dynamics underwent a radical shift as user attention was primarily diverted towards the rapidly emerging meme mania and DeFi services trends. These alternative avenues within the blockchain ecosystem became more enticing, resulting in a noteworthy decline in virtual world trading activities.
All Hands On Deck On the Metaverse Ship!
Various companies, including Animoca Brands which is a prominent supporter of metaverse startups, back these optimistic projections. Animoca has invested in over 20 companies pushing the metaverse’s boundaries over the past six months.
The company drives practical Web3 business initiatives using digital assets and blockchain technology. It contributes to the vision of revolutionizing various industries with secure and universally accessible systems.
Despite the apparent lull in metaverse funding hype, the industry attracts significant investments and continues to develop. This occurrence hints at an exciting future in the industry, supported by the belief that our present actions shape the future.
