How to Invest in the Metaverse: 7 Top Tokens to Consider

What Is the Metaverse?

The metaverse is a virtual space independent of the physical world, enabling users to engage in diverse activities and experiences through interactive environments and services. By operating avatars, users can communicate, play games, shop, and participate in a broad range of immersive activities.

Powered by advanced technologies like VR (Virtual Reality) and AR (Augmented Reality), the metaverse offers experiences that surpass conventional digital interactions, delivering heightened immersion. These innovations allow users to overcome physical barriers and enjoy new forms of communication and engagement.

Metaverse applications extend well beyond entertainment and gaming—they are expected to impact education, business, art, healthcare, and various social sectors. Although significant challenges remain for technological advancement, forecasts project the metaverse will become a massive market, potentially valued at ¥100 trillion, and may emerge as a cornerstone of the next-generation digital economy.

The term "metaverse" originates from Neal Stephenson’s 1992 dystopian cyberpunk novel "Snow Crash." The virtual world concept depicted in the novel helped shape foundational ideas for today's metaverse technology.

The metaverse is widely seen as a transformative force for business and society. Concrete applications are already advancing across several key industries:

• Entertainment: Virtual concerts and gaming provide new experiences, enabling global participation in real time.
• Education: Virtual campuses offer learning opportunities unconstrained by geography.
• Healthcare: Surgical assistance and rehabilitation via virtual reality enhance medical quality and efficiency.
• Real Estate: Virtual property tours and purchases are reshaping real estate transactions.
• Finance: Virtual trading and investment expand the capabilities of financial services.

Metaverse Investment Strategies for Beginners

The metaverse is emerging as a new investment arena where anyone can participate and potentially generate income. Major corporations and blockchain companies are building proprietary metaverse platforms leveraging this breakthrough technology.

Importantly, metaverse investment is not limited to purchasing crypto assets. There is a broad spectrum of investment opportunities, with hundreds of publicly traded companies involved. These firms cover industries such as real estate, gaming, entertainment, and technology, each bringing unique perspectives to the metaverse market.

Investors should align investment methods with their individual goals and risk tolerance. Below, we detail several beginner-friendly approaches to investing in the metaverse:

• Virtual Land Acquisition: Invest in digital land within metaverse environments, aiming for appreciation.
• Prebuilt Property Purchases: Acquire virtual properties for rental income or resale.
• Metaverse Crypto Asset Investment: Invest in tokens issued by metaverse platforms.
• Metaverse ETF Investment: Purchase ETFs to diversify across a range of metaverse-related companies.
• Metaverse Stock Investment: Buy shares in publicly listed companies engaged in metaverse development.
• NFT Creation and Flipping: Develop and trade digital assets for potential profit.

How to Invest in the Metaverse: Top 7 Related Stocks

1. Meta Platforms Inc.

In 2022, Facebook rebranded to Meta. This strategic move clearly signaled the company's full commitment to the metaverse. Mark Zuckerberg described the metaverse as the future of digital communication and social interaction, staking the company's direction on metaverse technology.

Meta Platforms is developing transformative products for real-life experiences and communication via mobile devices, VR headsets, and home electronics. The company invests heavily in metaverse R&D, aiming to build the next-generation social platform.

The platform consists of two major segments. The first is FoA (Family of Apps), a social-focused brand that encompasses Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, and WhatsApp. These apps collectively serve billions of users worldwide, forming a robust user base.

The second segment is Facebook Reality Labs (FRL). FRL is a research division focused on AR (Augmented Reality) and VR (Virtual Reality) hardware, software, and content. It drives innovation in next-generation VR headsets and AR glasses, laying the technological foundation for immersive metaverse experiences.

2. Microsoft Corporation

Microsoft stands out among tech giants investing in the metaverse. The company has launched several cutting-edge products to enhance virtual experiences and solidified its presence in the metaverse space.

Traditionally known for consumer software and workflow solutions, Microsoft has recently accelerated investments in metaverse technologies for both businesses and individuals. Its key strength is integrating existing business software with metaverse platforms.

One flagship metaverse product is HoloLens, Microsoft’s first-generation AR headset. HoloLens enables users to interact with 3D holographic objects as part of their environment, with applications spanning manufacturing, healthcare, and education.

The original HoloLens launched in 2015, followed by an improved version in 2019. HoloLens 2 offers a wider field of view, enhanced comfort, and greater processing power, driving increased adoption in enterprise settings.

Among Microsoft's latest offerings is "Mesh for Microsoft Teams," which enables virtual meetings using customizable avatars and immersive spaces. This technology significantly improves remote work experiences and facilitates more natural communication.

3. Roblox Corporation

Roblox is a leading game platform for children, with around half its users under 13 and total engagement exceeding 11.8 billion hours. This extraordinary engagement underscores Roblox’s prominence as a metaverse investment opportunity.

Roblox embraced the metaverse concept early, laying plans to become a dominant platform. Beyond gaming, it fosters a comprehensive virtual world for user creation, interaction, and economic activity.

Roblox’s standout feature is that developers can build and upload games for users to play, fueling a continuous stream of user-generated content (UGC). This approach has made Roblox a unique 3D platform where users play, connect, and collaborate—serving as a model for the creator economy.

4. NVIDIA

NVIDIA is a global leader in GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) manufacturing. The company produces high-performance integrated circuits for gaming consoles and PCs and is recognized for its advanced graphics technology.

In recent years, NVIDIA has intensified its focus on virtual worlds, developing innovative metaverse products that enable 3D modeling of physical environments. NVIDIA’s GPU technology is essential for real-time, high-quality graphics in immersive metaverse experiences.

In October 2020, NVIDIA released the beta of "Omniverse," a platform that connects the metaverse to shared virtual spaces. Omniverse powers the design and creation of digital 3D simulations for real-world projects, supporting industries like architecture, manufacturing, and entertainment and advancing digital twin technology.

5. The Boeing Company

Boeing is a leading global aerospace manufacturer, producing and leasing airplanes, rockets, satellites, and more. Its adoption of metaverse technology demonstrates the potential for industrial applications beyond traditional manufacturing.

Boeing is leveraging the metaverse to rebrand its design and manufacturing processes using digital twin technology to optimize everything from aircraft design and production to maintenance in digital environments.

The company plans to equip mechanics with $3,500 Microsoft HoloLens headsets, optimize robotics reliance, and build unified digital networks. Boeing has announced a $15 billion investment in this sector, highlighting its commitment to metaverse technology.

6. Unity Software Inc.

Unity, developed by Unity Technologies, is a cross-platform game engine now available on PCs, smartphones, tablets, and nearly all web browsers. Its versatility and recent support for VR platforms have positioned Unity as a core technology for metaverse development.

Unity Software has strengthened its metaverse position via its game engine and the acquisition of Weta Digital, a world-class visual effects studio behind movies like "The Lord of the Rings" and "Avatar." This acquisition secured leading-edge 3D technology for Unity.

In December 2021, Unity partnered with eBay to enable vendors to showcase products in realistic 3D images with 360-degree views, enhancing online shopping and demonstrating metaverse commerce potential.

Unity has also partnered with Hyundai to create digital twins—virtual 3D models of real objects—to increase productivity and drive innovation in manufacturing. Unity’s technology is now applied across industries, including manufacturing and retail, beyond gaming.

7. Autodesk, Inc.

Autodesk is a top software provider for design services across architecture, engineering, construction, product design, manufacturing, and media. Its tools are widely adopted by professionals and have become global standards for digital design.

Autodesk delivers modeling and rendering solutions and develops a broad suite of applications—including AutoCAD, AutoCAD LT, 3ds Max, Inventor, AutoCAD Civil 3D, Maya, Revit, and CAM solutions. These technologies are vital for designing and building metaverse environments, serving as foundational tools for virtual world creation.

Other Ways to Invest in the Metaverse

Beyond buying metaverse stocks, investors have several additional options for metaverse investment. Select methods according to your risk tolerance and investment objectives.

• Investing in Metaverse Cryptocurrencies
• Direct Metaverse Investment

Method 1: Investing in Metaverse Cryptocurrencies

Many crypto enthusiasts are exploring new technological frontiers within the metaverse. Popular tokens include AXS (Axie Infinity), MANA (Decentraland), SAND (The Sandbox), and Bloktopia, which serve as the backbone for economic activity in metaverse platforms.

Buying crypto assets is one of the simplest entry points for metaverse investment. Major exchanges make acquisition straightforward, so beginners can get started easily. However, the crypto asset market is volatile, so thorough research is essential before investing.

Key metaverse platforms attracting attention recently include:

• Decentraland: Decentralized virtual world where users can own land and create content.
• The Sandbox: Platform combining game creation and immersive metaverse experiences.
• Axie Infinity: Game platform with a play-to-earn model.
• Roblox: Major game platform centered on user-generated content.
• Sorare: Digital soccer card game and fantasy sports platform.
• Illuvium: Open-world RPG and NFT collection game.
• MetaHero: Platform for creating ultra-realistic 3D avatars.
• Bloktopia: Metaverse offering virtual real estate and business opportunities.
• Star Atlas: Large-scale metaverse game focused on space exploration.
• Upland: Virtual real estate trading platform based on real-world maps.

Method 2: Direct Metaverse Investment

Just as you would acquire physical land in reality, you can purchase and "inhabit" land in the metaverse. Metaverse land is a digital space acquired with cryptocurrency or sometimes fiat currency. While this approach allows you to directly benefit from metaverse growth, it also carries higher risk.

Metaverse land delivers optimized 3D experiences for users. Owners can build structures, host events, or rent the space for advertising. These assets are frequently formatted as NFTs, enabling secure ownership via blockchain.

Most metaverse land purchases are made with cryptocurrency, including Ethereum, SAND, and MANA (the currency of Decentraland). Acquiring these assets is the first step toward owning land in the metaverse.

All you need is a crypto trading platform, making the process relatively simple. However, virtual land values depend heavily on overall metaverse adoption and carry higher risk than standard crypto assets. Carefully evaluate platform prospects and community activity before investing.

Why the Metaverse Market Is Poised for Growth

Three major factors are expected to drive strong growth in the metaverse market over the coming years. These elements reinforce each other and underpin the market’s multifaceted expansion:

• Technological advances enabling frictionless metaverse spaces
• The rise of Generation Z, the internet-native cohort
• Growing focus on the metaverse economy by major corporations

Reason 1: Technological Advances for Stress-Free Metaverse Spaces

Broad adoption of the metaverse depends on creating virtual spaces that are truly enjoyable and seamless for users. However, current technology is not entirely frictionless—challenges like VR sickness, hardware constraints, and security issues persist. These obstacles are the main impediments to mass market adoption.

Nonetheless, metaverse technology is advancing rapidly. Innovations like 5G/6G connectivity, AI-powered automation, and lighter, higher-performance VR devices are making frictionless metaverse environments increasingly achievable. Low-latency networks, in particular, are crucial for immersive real-time experiences.

As technology evolves, more users will be able to participate in the metaverse, dramatically expanding the market. Lower technical barriers could shift the metaverse from a niche pursuit to a mainstream platform for everyday use.

Reason 2: The Rise of Generation Z, the Internet-Native Cohort

Generation Z (born after 1997), often called "internet natives," is becoming the societal core—a key driver for metaverse market growth. This generation is deeply familiar with digital technologies and is keenly interested in the metaverse. They move fluidly between digital and physical worlds.

Games such as Fortnite and Roblox have already established "economies" dominated by younger users. These platforms support virtual item trading and creator monetization, mirroring real-world economic activity.

Generation Z views the metaverse as a space for community and creativity—not just gaming. As they become central to society, the line between the real and virtual worlds will blur, driving greater demand and participation. In the future, activities within the metaverse may hold social and economic value comparable to those in reality.

Reason 3: Growing Focus on the Metaverse Economy by Major Corporations

A critical factor in the metaverse market’s outlook is the increasing number of large companies focusing on the "metaverse economy," anchored by cryptocurrencies and NFTs. Corporate involvement boosts market credibility and consumer awareness.

Facebook’s rebrand to "Meta" and Microsoft’s development of "Mesh" for virtual meetings mark major shifts in the metaverse landscape. These tech giants’ full-scale entry is accelerating market growth.

Cryptocurrencies and NFTs, as blockchain-powered digital assets, are closely linked to metaverse activity. They enable transparent, reliable ownership and economic transactions. Growth in crypto and NFT markets is expected to have a positive impact on the metaverse.

Major corporate entry and developments in crypto/NFT markets are likely to fuel further expansion. The integration of existing business models with the metaverse is set to create new opportunities for value creation.

Metaverse ETFs: A Diversified Investment Option

Metaverse ETFs are trend-focused investment opportunities offering diversified exposure to multiple stocks managed by professional fund managers. Compared to single-stock investments, ETFs allow investors to benefit from overall market growth while mitigating risk.

ETFs function similarly to mutual funds, pooling stocks into single assets with significant return potential. By diversifying across multiple companies, investors can reduce single-firm risk and participate in the broader metaverse market’s expansion.

The key distinction is that ETFs are actively managed by professionals seeking to maximize market value. Fund managers analyze trends and optimize portfolios to deliver stable returns.

Leading metaverse ETFs include the Roundhill Ball Metaverse ETF, The Simplify Volt Fintech Disruption ETF, ProShares Metaverse ETF, Subversive Metaverse ETF, and Evolve Metaverse ETF. Each ETF employs distinct strategies, enabling investors to select funds that match their objectives.

Fortnite: A Leading Candidate for the Next Metaverse Era

Fortnite is widely recognized as one of the most influential metaverse platforms. Developed by Epic Games, Fortnite boasts over 400 million users globally, with influence extending far beyond gaming.

Fortnite is considered a next-generation metaverse leader for several reasons:

• Vast user base and strong appeal among Generation Z: With 400 million+ users, Fortnite commands an overwhelming advantage. Its popularity among younger audiences positions it for continued growth.

• Extensible virtual environments and creativity: Fortnite has evolved beyond battle royale gaming, enabling users to freely create content. This flexibility supports diverse experiences.

• Blockchain integration: Integration of NFTs and digital assets is advancing the metaverse economy within the Fortnite ecosystem.

Fortnite has launched a creator revenue-sharing program and opened world development, allowing creators to monetize their in-game content and supporting sustained platform growth.

These factors make Fortnite a strong contender to lead the next generation of metaverse platforms. Its massive user base and ongoing innovation identify Fortnite as a prime candidate for metaverse market leadership.

FAQ

What Is the Metaverse? Is It Worth Investing In?

The metaverse is a virtual reality environment where users, represented by avatars, can buy and sell land and assets using NFT technology. Corporate involvement and event hosting drive investment potential, but there are risks of speculative bubbles.

What Are the Main Ways to Invest in the Metaverse?

Primary metaverse investment methods include trading related cryptocurrencies, investing in stocks, buying and selling virtual land or real estate, and investing in metaverse funds. Each approach carries unique risks and returns.

What Are the Best Metaverse-Related Stocks?

Leading metaverse stocks include Activision, Epic Games, and Nintendo. These firms are at the forefront of gaming and VR technology and are positioned for continued growth.

What Are the Risks and Considerations for Metaverse Investment?

Risks include regulatory uncertainty, slow technology adoption, and unclear content quality. As an emerging sector, regulatory changes could threaten business continuity. The pace of VR adoption and market growth is unpredictable, so prudent investment with surplus capital is essential.

What Should You Review Before Buying Metaverse Company Stocks?

Assess the company’s financial health, business model, and regulatory environment. Focus on revenue growth, market potential, and legal risks, and consider technology adoption and content outlook.

How Is Metaverse Investment Different from Crypto Asset Investment?

Metaverse investment includes company stocks and project financing, reflecting economic value. Crypto asset investment centers on token trading and blockchain-derived value. The former are traditional financial assets; the latter are digital assets with distinct characteristics.

What Is the Growth Outlook and Market Size for the Metaverse?

The metaverse market is forecast to grow from $154.6 billion in 2025 to $713.69 billion in 2035, at a compound annual growth rate of 46.7%. Advancements in AR/VR technology and entertainment demand are primary growth drivers.

What Are the First Steps for Beginners in Metaverse Investment?

Start by learning basic crypto asset concepts. Open an account with a reputable exchange and begin with small investments in metaverse-related stocks. Gradually expand your portfolio while prioritizing security for successful investing.