The phrase “metaverse” refers to a new virtual space arising as technology improves.
It’s an idea that traces its origins to 1992 when Neal Stephenson published his dystopian novel “Snow Crash,” which featured characters who used 3D headgear to visit another reality.
On the face, this appears to be nothing new, yet the Metaverse is expected to be a completely new approach for us to engage with the internet, known as Web 3.0.
The Metaverse is a mix of virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and three-dimensional digital worlds.
The underlying concept is to give the internet a perception of presence – imagine 3D avatars and synced virtual places that everybody can share.
With augmented reality glasses, you could, for example, visit a friend’s virtual residence in the Metaverse or watch digital concerts and conferences.
Several large IT corporations have jumped on the metaverse bandwagon, though their perspectives vary. Facebook and other social media corporations are among the most vocal advocates today, believing that the innovation will alter how many of us socialize by the end of this century.
To symbolize its devotion to the Metaverse, Facebook changed its name to Meta. The Metaverse’s ambitions aren’t limited to escapism and creating communal encounters.
Microsoft believes that the Metaverse can make remote work more personal through Microsoft Teams. Meanwhile, video game producers like Epic Games seek to create distinct worlds that go beyond what is conceivable in the actual world.
Finally, proponents of decentralized technologies assert that they can permit digital ownership and complete virtual economies.
The Metaverse offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to invest. As per Bloomberg, the Metaverse’s worldwide economic potential might reach $800 billion by 2024.
According to Matthew Ball, CEO of Epyllion, a venture financing firm, the Metaverse is an opportunity with a lot of zeros behind it.
Even if your expectations are lower, precedent from the digital economy, the internet, and mobile internet says this is a $10 [trillion] to $30 trillion opportunity that will materialize in a decade or decade and a half.
There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach to investing in the Metaverse. Albeit, there are three methods for investors to get a piece of the $30 trillion pie.
Additional read: How to invest in Snapchat from India
1. Going the head-on way
Using Metaverse crypto or Metaverse cryptocurrencies, one can invest in both cryptocurrencies and the Metaverse at the same time.
Decentraland (MANA), Sandbox (SAND), and Enjin are some Metaverse tokens (Enj). To invest in Metaverse in India, go to any significant crypto exchange and acquire the tokens directly.
To make cash, one can exchange such assets throughout the Metaverse, earn things and services, and then redeem them in the real world.
On the other hand, directly purchasing NFTs and other assets entails significant risks and volatility. Purchasing virtual land or real estate in the Metaverse is another way to invest directly in the Metaverse.
2. Investing through individual stocks with metaverse exposure
Equities of publicly traded companies participating in the Metaverse domain can likewise be used to invest in the Metaverse indirectly.
The majority of the prominent companies in this field are currently listed in the United States. These could be businesses that engage in Metaverse-related activities or supply products, services, technology, or technological skills.
While some companies, such as Meta, are working on high-end VR headsets, others, such as Nvidia, are working on the computational power that will power the Metaverse.
Cloud service companies such as Amazon and Microsoft will play a part in the Metaverse because it will be housed in the cloud.
On the other hand, individual stock purchases will necessitate greater initial and ongoing analysis.
3. Investing inconvenience
As Metaverse is still in its infancy, it’s challenging to grasp the Metaverse’s and enterprises’ business models.
As a beginner, you can invest in the Metaverse through ETFs such as the Roundhill Ball Metaverse ETF, which gives you exposure to companies that develop Metaverse infrastructure (like Nvidia), gaming engines that create virtual worlds (like Roblox), and leaders in content, commerce, and social media for the Metaverse (like Tencent). Nvidia Corporation, Microsoft Corporation, Meta Platforms Inc., Roblox Corporation, Tencent Holdings Limited, and Unity Software Inc. are among the fund’s top holdings.
The Roundhill Ball Metaverse ETF had 45 holdings and seven nations in its portfolio. The median market capitalization of these 45 holdings is $68 billion.
Put another way, the typical company held by this ETF will be successful and well-established. While these equities will have metaverse connections, there’s a fair probability they’ll also have very profitable core operations that will support metaverse research and development.
If you opt to invest in ETFs, you may rest easy.
It’s crucial to realize that Metaverse investments aren’t for everyone. Furthermore, having a significant concentration of assets in stocks of Metaverse-related companies can be dangerous.
When investing in the Metaverse, one must consider risk tolerance and the value it will add to the portfolio!
FAQs
What is the Metaverse, and how can I invest in it?
The Metaverse is a virtual shared space where people can interact, work, and play. To invest, consider buying Metaverse-related cryptocurrencies, investing in companies developing Metaverse technology, or acquiring virtual real estate within Metaverse platforms.
Can I invest in Metaverse through NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens)?
Yes, NFTs are often used for buying and selling virtual assets in the Metaverse. You can invest in Metaverse-related NFTs, such as virtual land, digital art, or in-game items.
Is investing in Metaverse safe?
As with any investment, there are risks. Ensure you research and understand the projects and technologies you invest in. Diversify your investments and only invest what you can afford to lose.
