Top 5 Altcoins That Quietly Outperformed Bitcoin in 2025

Bitcoin may still dominate headlines, but a handful of altcoins slipped under the radar while outpacing BTC’s performance in 2025. From new DeFi challengers to long-standing tokens with renewed momentum, here are the top five cryptos delivering higher year-to-date (YTD) returns—and why they matter to both global and Nigerian investors.

1. Hyperliquid (HYPE)—A New DeFi Powerhouse

Why it stands out
Hyperliquid rose approximately 85% YTD, easily eclipsing Bitcoin’s ~17% gain. Behind the surge: growing usage of its decentralized perpetual futures exchange, automated token buybacks, and a sharp rebound after a Q1 dip.

Chart & technical insights
HYPE rocketed from its March lows, soaring to an all-time high above $50. It sustained strong momentum above its 50- and 200-day moving averages, though recent peaks pushed RSI into overbought territory. Watch whether the $40 support level (around its 50-day MA) holds as price consolidates.

Where to trade it
Available on global platforms like Binance and accessible via Dtunes in Nigeria—allowing seamless swaps from HYPE to Naira or Bitcoin, whenever you choose.

2. XRP: Cross-Border Token Gaining Strength

Why it stands out
XRP delivered around 37 % YTD growth, driven by legal clarity and expanded utility in DeFi. It surged as high as $3.65—its highest since 2018.

Chart & technical insights
After hitting overbought RSI levels, XRP pulled back into the $2.7–$2.8 range—finding support near its 50-day MA while remaining well above the 200-day average. Holding above $2.5 may pave the way for a resumption of upward momentum.

Where to trade it
Widely available on exchanges like Binance, Coinbase, and Kraken. Nigerian traders can also trade XRP via Dtunes for quick Naira conversions.

3. TRON (TRX): Steady Uptick Toward Multi-Year Peaks

Why it stands out
TRX logged about 32–36 % YTD gains, approaching its multi-year highs thanks to strong dApp adoption and its staking ecosystem.

Chart & technical insights
TRX exhibited low volatility and consistent upward movement—climbing past the key $0.30 resistance and staying above both its 50- and 200-day moving averages. Momentum indicators remain healthy, suggesting room for further upside.

Where to trade it
Available globally on major exchanges and supported in Nigeria via Dtunes app

4. Ethereum (ETH): Second-Largest, Still Selling Quietly

Why it stands out
ETH rose approximately 30–33% YTD, quietly beating BTC. It also set a new all-time high at $4,953 in August. Approval of spot ETH ETFs expanded institutional inflows.

Chart & technical insights
ETH’s price formed higher lows and higher highs throughout 2025. Its 50-day MA crossed above the 200-day MA in a “golden cross,” and it remains far above both. RSI hit overbought territory, but the recent pullback toward $4,400 may represent a healthy retest of breakout levels.

Where to trade it
Universally available—from Coinbase to Binance. In Nigeria, Dtunes, Luno, and Bundle provide easy ETH access.

5. Bitcoin Cash (BCH): Resurgent Legacy Fork

Why it stands out
BCH gained 22–27% YTD, surpassing Bitcoin and reclaiming its place in the spotlight. A sharp recovery from Q1 lows and renewed exchange listings fueled interest.

Chart & technical insights
BCH staged a V-shaped rally from under $300 to peaks over $600. Even after a correction, it’s holding above its 200-day MA (upper $300s) with recent support around $500–$550. Momentum has normalized, suggesting consolidation may precede another rally.

Where to trade it
Supported on platforms like Binance, Coinbase, and in Nigeria via Dtunes and Luno. Its low fees make it appealing for peer-to-peer payments as well.

What This Means for You (Especially as a Nigerian Investor)

Altcoin	YTD Gain	Key Drivers
Hyperliquid	~85 %	DeFi usage, buybacks, exchange dynamics
XRP	~37 %	Settlement utility, Ethereum DeFi integration
TRON (TRX)	~32–36 %	dApp adoption, staking, low fees
Ethereum (ETH)	~30–33 %	ETF approvals, all-time high momentum
Bitcoin Cash	~22–27 %	Payments focus, renewed demand

Many of these altcoins remain under the radar, ideal for investors seeking hidden opportunities. Technical indicators suggest that some (like HYPE, XRP, and ETH) may be setting up for renewed bullish moves. For Nigerians, platforms like Dtunes offer seamless holding of these assets, with fast swaps between altcoins and Naira. This makes it easier to diversify and act quickly when momentum shifts.

So,

2025 has shown that under-the-radar altcoins can outperform even the largest crypto. Hyperliquid, XRP, TRX, Ethereum, and Bitcoin Cash delivered stronger YTD results than Bitcoin—each with their own drivers. If you’re looking for quiet outperformers with actionable setups, tracking these assets might be your move. Nigerian traders can swap assets with easy access with Dtunes for the best experience and rates.