Since 2022, dollar-cost averaging (DCA) into Bitcoin, XRP, Solana, and Tron has delivered stronger returns than similar strategies on Ethereum and Cardano, according to a recent analysis by KuCoin. The report highlights a notable shift in investor preferences, with these four digital assets outperforming the two major altcoins over the same period. For long-term crypto investors, the findings could reshape how they approach systematic accumulation.

Why DCA Matters in Crypto

Dollar-cost averaging is a strategy where investors split a larger investment into smaller, equal purchases at regular intervals, regardless of price. This approach reduces the impact of volatility and avoids the risk of investing a lump sum at a peak. In crypto, where prices can swing wildly, DCA is often recommended as a way to build positions without trying to time the market.

KuCoin's analysis compared the performance of a DCA strategy applied to several major cryptocurrencies—Bitcoin, XRP, Solana, Tron, Ethereum, and Cardano—starting in 2022. The results show that the first four assets collectively outperformed the latter two, suggesting that investors using DCA in these tokens have seen better gains over the past few years.

What the Data Shows

  • Bitcoin and XRP led the pack, with consistent gains from 2022 through mid-2026.
  • Solana and Tron also outperformed, driven by network activity and adoption.
  • Ethereum and Cardano lagged, despite their strong communities and technological developments.

While the exact percentage returns were not disclosed in the summary, the trend is clear: these four assets have been more rewarding for DCA investors.

Why These Assets Outperformed

Several factors may explain the outperformance. Bitcoin remains the dominant store of value and has seen increased institutional adoption. XRP has benefited from regulatory clarity and its use in cross-border payments. Solana has gained traction for its high-speed, low-cost transactions, attracting developers and users. Tron, known for its stablecoin usage and high throughput, has also seen strong network growth.

In contrast, Ethereum and Cardano have faced scalability challenges and slower adoption compared to their peers. Ethereum's high gas fees have pushed some users to alternatives, while Cardano's development has been more measured. These dynamics may have influenced the DCA performance.

Implications for Investors

For investors, this analysis suggests that a DCA strategy isn't one-size-fits-all. Choosing which assets to accumulate is just as important as the timing. The report's findings could encourage investors to diversify their DCA portfolios beyond the top two cryptocurrencies.

However, past performance is not indicative of future results. The crypto market remains highly volatile, and regulatory changes or technological shifts could alter the landscape. Investors should conduct their own research and consider their risk tolerance before committing to any strategy.

Key Takeaways

The KuCoin report provides valuable insight for anyone using DCA in crypto. While Bitcoin, XRP, Solana, and Tron have outperformed Ethereum and Cardano since 2022, that doesn't mean the latter are poor investments—they simply haven't performed as well under this strategy during this period.

For long-term investors, the key is to stay informed, diversify wisely, and remain disciplined. DCA can smooth out volatility, but asset selection remains the critical driver of returns. As the market evolves, periodic reviews of your DCA strategy can help ensure it stays aligned with your goals.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always do your own research.