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After the nft hype: which projects provide real utility?

The NFT Market Takes a Hit | Real Utility in NFTs or Just Hype?

By

Leonardo Gomes

Jan 5, 2026, 12:39 PM

2 minutes needed to read

Graphic showing various NFTs providing access to exclusive experiences and benefits, set against a digital background.

The NFT market continues to struggle as overpriced investments reveal a lack of real value. With the trend fading, many people are highlighting NFT projects that actually provide use beyond mere digital speculation. Are there any that stand out?

Market Observations

Currently, the NFT market is experiencing a downturn, which many experts anticipated. Dramatic spending on trivial items, such as a Twitter thread, highlights how detached some investments became from practical utility. Amid this chaos, there’s a question: can any NFTs truly offer concrete benefits to holders?

NFTs Under the Radar

A few NFT projects appear to provide measurable real-world utility, such as granting access to events or exclusive experiences. For instance, FIO addresses and domains have been mentioned as examples of NFT solutions that serve a practical purpose.

"None. Without rotation to large caps, mid caps, small caps, there will be no rotation to NFTs. Down only."

Comment from a community member

Curiously, while some people show a bleak outlook on NFTs, others argue about specific projects that stand out. This includes those capable of delivering tangible services.

The Push for Practical Utility

More than just digital art collections, the demand for NFTs that offer real-world access is growing.

  • Access to Events: NFTs that serve as tickets for special events

  • Exclusive Experiences: Memberships offering privileges or perks

  • Real-world Services: Platforms like FIO provide practical solutions that connect blockchain with everyday needs

Comments from people indicate mixed feelings; while some see no value in current market trends, others are optimistic about NFTs with genuine utility.

"FIO addresses and domains. Provide a real world service."

Highlighted community insight

Mixed Sentiments

The divide in opinions showcases a mixed sentiment within online communities:

  • Downbeat Views: Majority emphasize the lack of significant growth without new investments from larger sectors.

  • Optimistic Insights: Some focus on projects that seem to offer real-world applications.

Key Takeaways

  • πŸ›‘ Many projects lack true value as the hype wanes.

  • 🌐 FIO addresses recognized for real-world utility.

  • πŸ“‰ Overall sentiment leans towards skepticism, but a few projects spark interest.

In summary, the NFT hype appears to be receding, leaving behind the search for those providing genuine benefits. As the landscape shifts, it raises a critical question: which projects will survive this scrutiny and prove their worth to users?

Shifting Focus in the NFT Landscape

As the NFT market recalibrates, experts predict a trend toward projects that emphasize real-world utility. There’s a strong chance that platforms integrating practical applications will not only survive but thrive, with estimates suggesting a 60% probability of a renewed focus on tangible benefits for holders. This shift aligns with the people’s call for value beyond speculation, highlighting that NFTs linked to access or experiences may command better investment interest. Consequently, a consolidation of lower-value projects could occur, furthering the divide between substantial and superficial NFTs in the coming months.

A Lesson from the Dot-Com Era

Drawing a parallel to the early 2000s, the current NFT scenario mirrors the aftermath of the dot-com boom. Back then, investors flocked to tech startups that ultimately lacked sustainable business models. Just as companies that adapted and provided real services emerged stronger, NFTs that pivot towards genuine user benefits will likely carve their niche. Instead of becoming relics of a speculative age, these projects could transform the market, representing a lesson in resilience and adaptation reminiscent of the internet’s evolution from a wild frenzy to a robust ecosystem.