Grayscale's Q3 watchlist is out! Discover which altcoins made the cut, which got dropped, and what this means for the future of the crypto market.

Altcoins on Grayscale's Q3 Watchlist: What's Hot and What's Not
Grayscale's Q3 watchlist offers a glimpse into institutional interest in the crypto space. Which altcoins are they eyeing, and what does it mean for you? Let's dive in!
Grayscale's Q3 Altcoin Picks: A Fresh Look
Grayscale Investments recently released its Q3 watchlist, highlighting 20 altcoins they believe are worth watching closely. The list isn't a set of investment recommendations, but rather a barometer of where institutional focus might be heading. This quarter sees some interesting shifts, with Avalanche (AVAX) and Morpho (MORPHO) joining the ranks. These additions signal Grayscale's interest in high-speed blockchain platforms and the DeFi space.
Who Got the Boot?
Not everyone could stay on the list. Lido DAO (LDO) and Optimism (OP) were dropped. According to Grayscale, the list prioritizes utility, traction, and strong underlying technology over short-term price speculation. This reshuffle suggests a focus on sustained growth and strategic progress.
The Mainstays: BTC, ETH, and More
While there were some new additions and removals, familiar names like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Solana (SOL) continue to hold their ground. Newer players such as Hyperliquid (HYPE), Ethena (ENA), and Jito (JTO) also remain on the list. The diversity of these assets across AI, DeFi, infrastructure, and tokenized data highlights the broadening use cases within the crypto space.
Altcoins Poised to Rally? Low Volume Could Be Key
Interestingly, while Bitcoin has been stealing the show, many altcoins are still struggling to catch up. However, some analysts suggest that this quiet phase for altcoins may soon end. Axel Adler, a market researcher, points to declining trading volumes as a potentially bullish signal. As of late June 2025, the average monthly altcoin exchange flow was below the annual average, suggesting asset consolidation and growing accumulation potential. If history repeats itself, this low-volume lull could be the calm before an altcoin storm.
XRP and Cardano: Still on the Sidelines
Despite increased speculation about an XRP ETF, Grayscale has again excluded XRP from its Top 20. Cardano (ADA) also failed to make the list, continuing its absence despite recent network upgrades. It seems Grayscale prioritizes legal clarity and sustained adoption metrics over short-term price action.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your Eyes Peeled
Grayscale's Q3 watchlist offers valuable insights into the ever-evolving crypto landscape. While it's not a crystal ball, it does provide a glimpse into what institutional investors are watching. Whether you're a seasoned crypto veteran or just getting started, keeping an eye on these trends can help you make informed decisions. So, buckle up, crypto enthusiasts, it's going to be an interesting quarter!