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

What Is the Metaverse?

The metaverse is a virtual space or service built apart from the real world, where users can engage in a range of activities and experiences. By controlling avatars, people can communicate, play games, shop, and enjoy various forms of entertainment.

The metaverse leverages technologies like VR (virtual reality) and AR (augmented reality) to create highly immersive experiences. Its applications are expected to extend well beyond entertainment and gaming to fields such as education, business, art, and healthcare. While the industry is still developing, it is projected to become a massive market valued at 100 trillion yen in the future.

The word “metaverse” originates from Neal Stephenson’s 1992 dystopian cyberpunk novel Snow Crash. Projects such as Second Life became some of the most popular metaverse platforms, attracting participation from many companies.

The metaverse is widely believed to have the potential to transform business and society. Here are some notable examples:

• Example 1: Entertainment — New forms of entertainment, such as virtual concerts and gaming experiences
• Example 2: Education — Location-independent educational opportunities through virtual campus learning
• Example 3: Healthcare — Support for advanced medical technology through VR-based surgical assistance and rehabilitation
• Example 4: Real Estate — Greater efficiency in real estate transactions through virtual property tours and purchases
• Example 5: Finance — Expanding possibilities for new financial services via trading and investing in virtual spaces

Metaverse Investment Strategies for Beginners

The metaverse presents new investment opportunities where anyone can participate and earn income. Many large corporations and blockchain companies are building on this technology, making it a compelling option for investors.

It’s important to note that investing in the metaverse is not limited to buying crypto assets. There are hundreds of publicly traded companies involved, spanning real estate, video games, entertainment, and more. Investors can select the best approach based on their style and risk tolerance.

To answer the question of how to invest in the metaverse, here are several actionable options:

• Purchase Land in the Metaverse — Buy virtual land with the expectation of future appreciation
• Buy Prefabricated Properties in the Metaverse — Purchase existing virtual buildings to generate rental income or resell for profit
• Invest in Metaverse Crypto Assets — Invest in metaverse-related cryptocurrencies and benefit from platform growth
• Invest in Metaverse ETFs — Diversify across multiple metaverse companies to manage risk
• Buy Metaverse Stocks — Directly invest in companies operating metaverse businesses
• Create and Flip NFTs — Create and sell your own NFTs, or resell existing NFTs for profit

How to Invest in the Metaverse: Top 7 Metaverse Stocks

1. Meta Platforms Inc.

Facebook recently changed its corporate name to Meta. Mark Zuckerberg described the metaverse as the next platform for digital communication and social life. This decision signals the company’s full commitment to metaverse business initiatives.

As a result, Meta Platforms is developing products—ranging from mobile devices and VR headsets to home equipment—that let people connect and experience the metaverse in daily life. The company invests tens of billions of dollars each year, reflecting its serious intent to bring the metaverse to life.

Meta’s platform consists of two main segments. The first, focused on social brands, is known as FoA (Family of Apps), which includes Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, and WhatsApp. The second is Facebook Reality Labs (FRL), a research division focused on augmented reality and virtual reality technologies for hardware, software, and content.

Meta has also committed to investing in “responsible” metaverse development. In previous virtual events, the platform highlighted how advancements in AI can enable optimal metaverse experiences. Meta is one of the most active investors in the metaverse sector.

2. Microsoft Corporation

Microsoft is a leading technology company making significant investments in the metaverse. The company has launched several products to enhance virtual experiences. While Microsoft is widely known for its computer software and consumer workflow solutions, it has recently focused on metaverse offerings for both enterprises and individuals.

One of Microsoft’s metaverse products, HoloLens, is considered the first generation of MSFT’s AR headset. Users can interact with 3D holographic objects as if they are part of the physical world. This technology overlays digital information onto reality, boosting productivity and enabling new experiences.

The first version launched in 2015, with subsequent improvements. HoloLens is now used in health care, entertainment, education, and more. In medicine, it’s particularly innovative for surgical support and medical training.

One of Microsoft’s latest metaverse products is Mesh for Microsoft Teams. At recent events, Microsoft announced that Mesh enables users to join virtual meetings with custom avatars and immersive environments. This feature is expected to greatly enhance remote work and enable more natural communication.

3. Roblox Corporation

Roblox is a gaming platform highly popular among young users—nearly half its user base is under 13, and total engagement reaches about 11.8 billion hours. This incredible user engagement shows why Roblox is a standout metaverse investment.

Roblox is already leveraging the metaverse and has ambitious plans to become a major platform in the space. Many children around the world interact on Roblox without leaving home, and the company aims to retain these users as they grow up. This strategy builds a long-term user base and strengthens Roblox’s metaverse position.

Roblox is more than just a gaming experience—it lets developers create and upload games to the platform for users to play. This makes Roblox a unique 3D platform for playing and connecting. Developers can also monetize their creations, supporting the growth of the creator economy.

4. NVIDIA

NVIDIA is a technology company best known for its graphics processing units (GPUs). These integrated circuits are used in gaming consoles and PCs. GPUs are essential for rendering high-quality metaverse graphics, and NVIDIA dominates this market.

In recent years, NVIDIA has shown a strong interest in virtual worlds and has developed metaverse products for creating 3D models of the real world. The company's technology leads the industry in real-time rendering and AI processing, making NVIDIA a key player in enabling the metaverse.

NVIDIA previously released a beta version of Omniverse, a platform for connecting shared virtual spaces. With Omniverse, NVIDIA enables the design and creation of digital 3D simulations of real-world projects. The platform is used for digital twins in industries such as architecture, manufacturing, and entertainment, driving metaverse adoption.

5. The Boeing Company

Boeing is known worldwide for designing, manufacturing, and selling aircraft, rockets, satellites, communications equipment, and more. As an aerospace industry leader, it aggressively adopts next-generation technologies.

Boeing is using the metaverse to rebrand its design and manufacturing processes. In the coming years, the company plans to deploy $3,500 Microsoft HoloLens headsets for mechanics, further optimize robotics, and build a unified digital information network. Boeing also plans to invest about $1.5 billion in this field over the next decade.

This investment will digitize processes from design and manufacturing to maintenance, aiming to boost efficiency and quality. Metaverse technology will help Boeing reduce physical prototyping, cut costs, and shorten development times.

6. Unity Software Inc.

Unity is a cross-platform game engine developed by Unity Technologies. Today, it runs on the web, PCs, smartphones, tablets, and nearly every web browser. Unity has expanded support for virtual reality platforms, and many game developers worldwide rely on it as a foundation for metaverse development.

Unity Software has secured its place in the metaverse through its game engine and the acquisition of Weta Digital. The company is focused on the metaverse and has announced partnerships beyond gaming. As a result, Unity’s technology is evolving from a game developer tool to a comprehensive metaverse platform.

Previously, Unity partnered with eBay to let vendors display products in 360-degree, tactile, realistic 3D images. This technology significantly improved online shopping, giving consumers a more detailed view of products.

Hyundai Motor Company also partnered with Unity to create digital twins—virtual 3D representations of real-world objects. Hyundai uses this virtual space to boost productivity and spark innovation in its production processes. Unity’s technology is now playing an important role in manufacturing as well.

7. Autodesk, Inc.

Autodesk is a leading software provider offering design tools for industries such as architecture, engineering, construction, product design, manufacturing, media, and entertainment. Autodesk’s products are industry standards for professionals and play a vital role in creating 3D content for the metaverse.

Autodesk also offers modeling and rendering solutions and produces a wide range of applications, including AutoCAD, AutoCAD LT, 3ds Max, Inventor, AutoCAD Civil 3D, Maya, Revit, and computer-aided manufacturing solutions. These tools are used to create structures and objects in the metaverse, providing essential technology for building virtual worlds.

Autodesk technology enables the creation of high-quality 3D content in the metaverse, giving architects, designers, and artists powerful tools to build realistic virtual environments.

Other Ways to Invest in the Metaverse

Beyond buying metaverse-related stocks, there are additional ways to invest in the metaverse. Each method has its own risk and return profile, so investors can choose according to their goals.

• Invest in Metaverse Cryptocurrencies
• Direct Metaverse Investment

Method 1: Invest in Metaverse Cryptocurrencies

Crypto enthusiasts entering the metaverse are focusing on the technology’s new frontier. Popular metaverse crypto assets include AXS (Axie Infinity), MANA (Decentraland), SAND (The Sandbox), and Bloktopia. Buying crypto assets is one of the simplest ways to invest in the metaverse.

Some of the most notable metaverse platforms and their associated cryptocurrencies include:

• Decentraland — A decentralized virtual world platform
• The Sandbox — A metaverse focused on user-generated content
• Axie Infinity — A pioneer in the play-to-earn model
• Roblox — A popular gaming platform for younger users
• Sorare — Digital sports cards and fantasy games
• Illuvium — An open-world RPG
• Metahero — An ultra-realistic 3D avatar creation platform
• Bloktopia — A skyscraper-themed virtual world
• Star Atlas — A space exploration-themed metaverse
• Upland — A virtual real estate platform based on real-world maps

Investing in these metaverse cryptocurrencies is a practical option. Each platform has a unique ecosystem, so investors can choose based on their interests and strategies.

Method 2: Direct Metaverse Investment

Just as you can acquire physical land, in the metaverse you can “live” in digital spaces purchased not only with cryptocurrency but sometimes with fiat currency. Investing in land in the metaverse is a new opportunity in virtual real estate.

Metaverse land gives users optimized 3D experiences. These assets are often structured as NFTs, making it easy to prove ownership. Blockchain technology records land ownership transparently and securely, simplifying resale and leasing.

Owning virtual land has several advantages: you become a landowner in the virtual world and can sell your assets through mainstream trading platforms. You can also earn income by building businesses or hosting events on your property.

Most metaverse land is purchased with cryptocurrency. Ethereum, SAND, and MANA (the community-based currency of Decentraland) are the most popular options. Acquiring these assets is the first step to owning land in the metaverse.

All you need is access to a crypto trading platform, so the buying process is very straightforward. However, the value of virtual land depends on the overall adoption of the metaverse, making it riskier than buying regular crypto assets. Investors should carefully consider each platform’s outlook and development plans.

Why the Metaverse Market Is Poised for Growth

Here are three main reasons the metaverse market is expected to grow rapidly. These factors are interconnected and could accelerate expansion.

• Technological advances that enable seamless metaverse experiences
• The rise of Generation Z, who are internet natives
• More major corporations focusing on the metaverse economy

Reason 1: Technological Advances That Enable Seamless Metaverse Experiences

For the metaverse to spread, users need to enjoy virtual spaces without friction. Currently, the metaverse is not entirely seamless—issues like VR sickness, hardware limitations, and security challenges remain. These technical hurdles have limited widespread adoption.

However, metaverse-related technology is evolving rapidly. Next-generation communications like 5G and 6G, plus AI, are making seamless metaverse experiences possible. High-speed, low-latency networks enable real-time, high-quality interaction, while AI powers automated content and personalized experiences.

As these technologies develop, more people will join the metaverse—expanding the market. Lowering technical barriers will make the metaverse accessible to everyday users.

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

Generation Z (born in 1997 or later) is becoming the core of society. This generation grew up with the internet and smartphones and shows high interest and understanding of the metaverse. In fact, studies often show that Gen Z is most interested in participating in the metaverse.

Games like Fortnite and Roblox are already creating digital economies led by younger users. Generation Z sees the metaverse as more than just a place for games—they use it for community building and creative expression, embracing virtual social interaction naturally.

As Generation Z becomes central to society, the line between the real world and the metaverse will blur, driving greater demand and participation. As they become the main consumer demographic, the metaverse market could grow substantially.

Reason 3: More Major Corporations Focusing on the Metaverse Economy

An important factor for the future of the metaverse market is that more large companies are focusing on the metaverse economy, especially around cryptocurrencies and NFTs. Corporate participation boosts credibility and drives real-world applications.

Facebook changed its name to Meta to focus on the metaverse, and Microsoft developed Mesh for meetings and interactions in virtual spaces. These companies are investing tens of billions of dollars each year, accelerating metaverse technology adoption.

Cryptocurrencies and NFTs—digital assets built on blockchain—are closely tied to metaverse activities. Growth in these markets can positively impact the metaverse. Blockchain’s ability to guarantee ownership and transaction transparency is the foundation of the metaverse economy.

Depending on corporate participation and trends in crypto and NFT markets, the metaverse market could grow even faster. As companies invest and develop new technologies, the metaverse will become a more practical and attractive platform.

Metaverse ETFs as an Investment Option

Metaverse ETFs offer trend-driven opportunities, managed by experienced fund managers and giving exposure to diverse stocks. Compared to individual stocks, ETFs provide diversification, making them attractive to beginner investors.

ETFs can be compared to mutual funds in that both are collections of stocks chosen for their potential returns. The key difference is that professional managers actively trade ETFs to maximize market value. ETFs are also highly liquid, tradable on stock exchanges, and easy to use for investors.

Some metaverse ETFs available include Roundhill Ball Metaverse ETF, The Simplify Volt Fintech Disruption ETF, ProShares Metaverse ETF, Subversive Metaverse ETF, and Evolve Metaverse ETF. Each has its own investment strategy and composition, so investors can choose based on their objectives.

Fortnite: A Top Contender for Metaverse Leadership

Fortnite is one of the most prominent platforms in the metaverse. Developed by Epic Games, Fortnite has over 400 million users worldwide, giving it a strong competitive position.

Fortnite is often called the next-generation metaverse for several reasons:

• Massive user base and Gen Z popularity — Over 400 million active users, with strong support from younger generations
• Extensive creativity and scalability — Users can freely create and share content
• Blockchain compatibility — NFT and digital asset integration enables a metaverse economy

Fortnite has also launched a creator revenue-sharing program and opened world development. These initiatives allow creators to earn from their in-game content, increasing the chances that Fortnite will become the mainstream metaverse platform.

Fortnite is evolving from a gaming platform into a comprehensive metaverse experience, hosting virtual concerts, brand collaborations, and diverse events. This variety and high engagement position Fortnite as a leader in the metaverse market.

FAQ

What is the metaverse? Is it worth investing in?

The metaverse is a three-dimensional virtual world built on the internet where users interact via avatars. It has significant investment potential, with projected growth to an $8 trillion market by 2024, and strong momentum among Generation Z.

What types of metaverse stocks exist?

Metaverse stocks include game developers, VR/AR technology companies, communications infrastructure providers, and graphics processing firms. These companies supply the technology and platforms for building the metaverse and are expected to see strong growth.

What is the best way to invest in the metaverse?

Ways to invest include trading metaverse cryptocurrencies, buying metaverse stocks, purchasing virtual real estate, investing in metaverse-focused funds, and participating in metaverse games. Choose the approach that best matches your investment style.

What are the risks of investing in the metaverse?

Risks include personal data leaks, digital asset theft, wallet hacking, high market volatility, and project failures. Technical instability and regulatory uncertainty are also key considerations.

What is the outlook for metaverse companies?

Growth prospects for metaverse companies are strong. The market is expected to reach about 1 trillion yen by 2026, with continued growth driven by technological innovation and expanding use cases.

How is metaverse investment different from cryptocurrency investment?

Metaverse investment focuses on virtual land and NFT items, while cryptocurrency investment is based on token price fluctuations. The metaverse uses NFTs and crypto as investment vehicles, whereas cryptocurrency itself is the direct investment asset.

How can beginners start investing in the metaverse?

Begin by learning the basics of NFTs and virtual real estate. Start with small investments. Options include buying metaverse stocks or ETFs or acquiring assets in virtual spaces.