CZ Says 95% of Crypto Investors Won’t Make It—Are You One of Them?
Crypto’s Harsh Reality: Why Only 5% of Investors Will Thrive While the Rest Struggle to Survive

The cryptocurrency market has long been a place of immense opportunity and extreme risk. But according to Changpeng Zhao (CZ), the former CEO of Binance, the majority of investors won’t make it in the long run. In a recent statement on X, CZ responded to a crypto influencer's analysis, confirming that only a small fraction of participants in the space truly understand what they’re doing.
CZ's comments underline a harsh truth—most crypto investors are either speculators chasing quick profits or individuals misled by social media hype. The barrier to success in the industry may seem low, but in reality, it takes an extraordinary level of dedication, market understanding, and discipline to emerge on top.
The Numbers Tell a Harsh Story
Crypto influencer EmperorBTC laid out a sobering analysis of market psychology, breaking investors into distinct categories. According to his observations, 80% of participants are merely "tourists," attracted by hype and quick gains, only to flee at the first sign of trouble. Another 10% base their decisions on misleading advice from influencers who have little real insight.
That leaves just 5% who genuinely understand the market. Yet even within this small elite, only 4% actively trade or invest in blockchain projects. And, as CZ pointed out, even they struggle to outperform the simple strategy of holding Bitcoin long-term.
His statement underscores an uncomfortable reality: even among the most knowledgeable players, the odds are stacked against consistent success in active trading. The safest bet, in his view, is simply buying and holding Bitcoin, an approach that has historically outperformed most other asset classes.
Bitcoin: The Ultimate Survivor
Bitcoin's dominance remains unshaken, with long-term holders benefiting the most. At the time of CZ’s statement, Bitcoin was trading at an impressive $82,930, just shy of the critical $85,000 resistance level. Despite market volatility and record outflows in the digital asset sector, the leading cryptocurrency continues to assert itself as the safest long-term bet.
CZ’s message is clear—those looking for shortcuts in the crypto market are unlikely to survive. The real winners are those who take the time to understand the space, develop patience, and avoid the pitfalls of speculation. For most, the best strategy might simply be to hold Bitcoin and let time do the work.
The Harsh Lesson for Crypto Enthusiasts
For newcomers and even seasoned investors, CZ’s words serve as a reality check. The crypto market is a battlefield where only the most informed and disciplined will thrive. While many are lured in by dreams of overnight riches, the truth is far less glamorous.
As the market continues to evolve, those who lack a deep understanding of blockchain technology and market cycles will likely be washed away by volatility. The question investors must ask themselves is simple—do they have what it takes to be among the 5% who truly succeed?
