With the markets showing signs of renewed life, investors are once again asking: what’s the best crypto investment to make this year? Bitcoin may dominate headlines, but that’s not where the biggest gains are expected to come from. The spotlight is shifting to utility-driven projects, tokens with regulatory momentum, and ecosystems that actually deliver something beyond speculation.
In this listicle, we break down four cryptos that are making serious moves: Unstaked, XRP, Cardano, and Ethereum. Whether you’re looking for AI-powered growth, institutional appeal, or blockchain fundamentals, each of these coins has something different to offer. But only one of them is still under a penny with 27x potential built in. Let’s dive into the details and help you figure out which one could be your next best crypto investment.
1. Unstaked: The AI Bet That’s Still Early
Unstaked brings something to the table that very few projects in the space offer: real AI utility combined with tokenized rewards and full on-chain transparency. It lets users deploy smart AI agents that handle community building on platforms like X (Twitter) and Telegram, autonomously, 24/7, and with every action recorded immutably on-chain. These agents don’t just mimic activity; they learn, adapt, and prove their work through a system called “Proof of Intelligence.” With operating costs as low as $10–$25 a month, Unstaked offers massive cost savings compared to hiring human teams. At the same time, users earn rewards in $UNSD for owning high-performing agents.
At the time of writing, Unstaked is in stage 16 of its AI crypto presale with the $UNSD token priced at $0.010126. Over $7.8 million has already been raised, and 966.73 million tokens have been sold. The token’s projected launch price is $0.1819, giving new buyers a potential 27x ROI. This alone puts it high on any best crypto investment list. But it’s the tokenomics, governance utility, and immediate post-launch utility that set it apart. If you’re looking for a functioning platform with strong upside, Unstaked is not one to overlook when picking your best crypto investment.
2. XRP: Big Moves with Big Risks
XRP is back in the headlines, and not just for its price swings. As of May 28, 2025, XRP is trading around $2.31, down 30% from its 2025 high of $3.36. That high came shortly after President Trump announced XRP’s inclusion in the U.S. Strategic Crypto Reserve, a move that sent signals across the market. Since then, XRP has been bouncing between $2.26 and $2.62, with analysts watching closely for a potential breakout to $10 by year-end. However, short-term forecasts remain grounded, expecting the coin to stay within its current band until clearer momentum builds.
Two recent developments have added fresh weight to XRP’s case. First, the CME launched cash-settled XRP futures, a huge step toward institutional adoption. Second, a key court ruling upheld restrictions on XRP sales to institutional buyers, signaling more regulatory clarity than chaos. If Ripple continues to navigate this environment well, XRP could again become one of the best crypto investment options for those looking to combine regulatory progress with upside potential. But make no mistake, this one carries risk, especially for short-term traders.
3. Cardano: Slow Climb with Strategic Backing
Cardano (ADA) isn’t the loudest project, but it’s been quietly building up strength in 2025. Currently trading at $0.75, ADA is up 11% this month and bouncing confidently off the $0.72 support level. Its RSI stands around 62, pointing to bullish momentum, and a bullish MACD crossover suggests upward pressure could continue. Analysts are calling for price targets between $0.95 and $1.80 this year, with long-shot predictions eyeing $2.91 or even $5 if institutional flows increase.
What gives ADA an edge right now is the expected SEC decision on a Cardano ETF application, due any day now. If approved, it could drive a major price leg up. It’s also worth noting that ADA was included in the U.S. Crypto Strategic Reserve, adding credibility and attention. While ADA isn’t priced for a moonshot, it offers stability and a strong network, making it the best crypto investment for long-term holders looking for consistent development and regulatory support.
4. Ethereum: Steady Giant with Institutional Fuel
Ethereum (ETH) might not be cheap, but it remains a serious contender for the best crypto investment title. As of May 28, ETH is priced at $2,636.97, and analysts are eyeing short-term targets in the $2,750 to $2,875 range. The recent “Pectra” upgrade on May 7 improved network scalability and validator staking limits, pushing network activity and setting the stage for stronger performance. ETH’s RSI and moving average setup both support a continued upward trend.
What’s adding to Ethereum’s case is growing institutional interest. SharpLink Gaming just committed to a $425 million Ethereum treasury, purchasing around 120,000 ETH. Meanwhile, spot ETH ETFs have raked in $248 million in net inflows in just a week. With price predictions ranging from $3,000 to $4,500 this year, Ethereum remains the go-to Layer 1 for serious builders and investors alike. It may not offer 100x returns, but if you’re after security, ecosystem value, and proven demand, Ethereum is still a strong crypto investment to consider.
4 Strong Contenders, One Clear Standout
Whether you’re bullish on AI, compliance, staking, or smart contracts, these four cryptos are well worth watching. XRP offers massive upside if regulatory clarity continues. Cardano is building momentum through ETF speculation and a resilient ecosystem. Ethereum remains the backbone of crypto, with strong fundamentals and institutional backing.
But if you’re looking for the best crypto investment with the most asymmetric upside, Unstaked leads the pack. With just $0.010126 per token, over $7.8 million already raised, and a 27x potential at launch, it’s still early enough for life-changing ROI. More importantly, it’s tied to a real product and working utility that taps into both the AI and Web3 revolutions. Don’t sleep on the momentum, it’s rare to get this kind of setup in a crowded market. If you’re planning your next best crypto investment, start with Unstaked.
