Should You Buy IOTA in 2025?

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At HelloSafe, our expert has been closely monitoring the evolution of the IOTA cryptocurrency for over three years. Every month, hundreds of thousands of users in South Africa trust us to analyse market trends and identify the best investment opportunities. Our analyses are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. In line with our ethical charter, HelloSafe has never purchased IOTA nor received any compensation from entities associated with its ecosystem.

IOTA in brief

How much does 1 IOTA cost?

The price of IOTA is up this week. Currently, IOTA trades at around R3.36, showing a 4.27% increase over the past 24 hours, but a slight 0.85% drop over the last week. Its market cap stands at approximately R12.8 billion, with an average daily trading volume of R280 million (3-month average). Ranked #93 by market capitalization, IOTA has 3.81 billion tokens in circulation and a market dominance of 0.07%. As with most cryptocurrencies, IOTA’s price movement remains volatile, offering both opportunities and risks for South African investors looking to diversify their digital asset portfolio.

Our comprehensive opinion on the cryptocurrency IOTA

After thorough analysis of IOTA's recent trends and its evolution over the past three years, leveraging on-chain indicators, technical signals, market data, and competitive landscape—refined through our proprietary algorithms—new patterns have emerged. The asset's transition towards innovative infrastructure and global institutional adoption positions it as a pivotal contender in distributed ledger technology and IoT. So, why could IOTA once again represent a strategic entry point in the infrastructure and real-world asset tokenisation sector by 2025?

Recent Performance & Market Context

Price Evolution

IOTA’s current price stands at approximately $0.1796, with the asset having shown a +4.27% increase over the last 24 hours, despite a one-month retracement (-22.07%) and slight one-year decline (-17.9%). Since its all-time low of $0.0796 (March 2020), IOTA has achieved a robust +125.6%, highlighting its resilience amidst market cycles. With a market capitalization near $684 million and ranking in the top 100, it maintains a meaningful presence within the digital asset landscape.

Positive Recent Developments

2025 has seen landmark milestones: the launch of the IOTA Rebased mainnet in May, marking a profound shift in network architecture through dPoS and integration with MoveVM; strategic partnerships, notably the Tony Blair Institute collaboration aimed at digitizing pan-African trade; and the inauguration of the TWIN Foundation—positioning IOTA as an infrastructural backbone in emerging markets. Additionally, institutional inroads via Zodia Custody amplify its appeal among professional investors.

Macro & Sectoral Climate

The broader crypto sector demonstrates renewed momentum fuelled by increasing blockchain adoption in global trade, the rapid growth of tokenised real-world assets, and supportive regulatory advances in key financial hubs. As markets pivot towards scalable, application-focused networks, projects like IOTA—focusing on IoT and the DePIN (Decentralized Physical Infrastructure) narrative—are well-situated to command outsized attention.

Technical Analysis

Crypto Indicators Overview

• RSI (14 days): 39.09 (neutral, tilting towards oversold)
• MACD: -0.0103 (bearish, though losing negative momentum)
• Stochastic %K: 16.75 (bullish reversal signal identified)
• Sentiment: Overall neutral with soft bearish undertones—offering an opening for mean-reversion strategies.

Moving Averages

IOTA’s price currently resides below its 20-day ($0.1989), 50-day ($0.2077), 100-day ($0.1938), and 200-day ($0.2483) moving averages—indicating short-term underperformance but also presenting potential ‘value zones’ for accumulation, particularly with strong on-chain support at:

• $0.17 & $0.19: Solid technical support bases, historically defended by buyers.
• $0.25 & $0.28: Immediate resistance levels—breaks above these thresholds could confirm a medium-term trend reversal.

Short/Medium-Term Momentum

Technical oscillators suggest the asset is approaching a confluence of oversold conditions and strong fundamental catalysts, both of which have historically preceded robust price recoveries. Macro triggers and protocol updates are primed to impact order flows and volatility positively.

Fundamental Analysis

Adoption Trajectory & Strategic Partnerships

IOTA’s increasing entrenchment in African digital infrastructure—underscored by recent institutional and governmental partnerships—signifies tangible adoption that transcends crypto hype cycles. The newly launched TWIN Foundation and pilot projects in Zambia not only enhance its real-world footprint but also create powerful network effects for the Tangle ecosystem.

Attractive Relative Valuation

With a market capitalization ($684 million) significantly below its historical highs and a fully diluted valuation ($830 million) among the most accessible for large-scale protocol upgrades, IOTA demonstrates notable upside potential compared to direct competitors in the infrastructure and IoT niche.

Structural Advantages: Technological Innovation

• Tangle (DAG) Architecture: Unique scalability—network throughput actually improves with more transactions, a rare property unmatched by typical blockchain designs.
• dPoS Transition & MoveVM: The IOTA Rebased upgrade enhances decentralization, security, and developer flexibility (notably through MoveVM), opening the door to advanced DeFi/NFT and RWA (Real World Asset) applications.
• Active Communities: Operational ecosystems in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East; backing from global foundation entities adds long-term credibility.

Liquidity & Market Positioning

• 24h Trading Volume: $15 million, indicative of sustained investor interest and robust market accessibility.
• No Hard Supply Cap: While there is no strict max supply, issuance schedules remain transparent and tied to protocol governance, fostering trust.
• Top-100 Coin: Despite sector headwinds, IOTA retains prominent placement—affirming large-scale relevance and institutional appeal.

Catalysts & Positive Outlook

Major Protocol Upgrades & Integrations

• Full roll-out of IOTA Rebased, with dPoS, validator incentives, and MoveVM integration, dramatically enhances the protocol’s competitiveness.
• Industrial and governmental adoption, particularly in trade infrastructure and identity services, signals mainstream validation.
• Collaboration with Zodia Custody unlocks institutional liquidity and custodianship, key for broader entry by funds and asset managers.

Expanding DePIN & RWA Ecosystem

IOTA’s direct positioning at the intersection of DePIN, IoT, and tokenization of world assets (ranging from logistics to identity) amplifies utility and creates sticky demand, distinguishing it from generic L1 platforms.

Regulatory & Institutional Tailwinds

Recent developments indicate an improving regulatory landscape for digital assets in Africa and Europe, supporting scalable, compliant use-cases—an edge for early integrators like IOTA.

Investment Strategies by Horizon

Short-Term (1-6 months)

• Potential for rebound from oversold technical conditions, particularly approaching protocol milestone implementations.
• Entry on technical dips around strong support zones ($0.17–$0.19) appears prudent, with upside potential on swift sentiment reversals.

Medium-Term (6-18 months)

• Increasing protocol adoption, combined with the market’s search for new ‘infrastructure’ leaders outside major L1s, positions IOTA for re-rating.
• Benefitting from ecosystem migration and new DeFi/RWA integrations, mid-term holders could see value crystallise around upcoming validator and governance incentives.

Long-Term (24+ months)

• Pioneering deployment in Africa’s digital commerce and asset tokenisation brings asymmetric upside, especially amidst rising institutional adoption.
• Strong candidacy for core allocations in portfolios seeking exposure to infrastructure, IoT narratives, and emerging-market digital transformation.

Strategic positioning ahead of fundamental protocol upgrades or following a retest of medium-term supports may offer an optimal risk/reward balance.

IOTA Projections (2025–2029)

Is Now the Right Moment to Buy IOTA?

• Unique, scalable technology (Tangle/DAG) and major protocol innovations are set to level up IOTA’s market position.
• Robust push into real-world use-cases: digital trade, asset tokenisation, and national-scale infrastructure, particularly in Africa.
• Recent institutional partnerships and the Zodia Custody listing highlight growing confidence from regulated actors.
• Attractive relative valuation and entry near historical support levels, with ample liquidity for buyers of all sizes.
• Multiple positive catalysts (mainnet launch, protocol upgrades, ecosystem expansion) aligned for repricing in the coming quarters.

Projection & Encouragement: The convergence of deeply fundamental upgrades, compelling ecosystem growth in underpenetrated regions, and rising demand for efficient, scalable IoT and RWA solutions lends considerable weight to IOTA’s revaluation thesis. With a technical base at current levels, key milestones approaching, and a demonstrably resilient community, IOTA may well be entering a new growth cycle. For investors seeking to position early in next-generation infrastructure, the present environment seems to offer an excellent opportunity—one where the fundamentals more than justify renewed interest and IOTA could soon embark on a new bullish phase.

IOTA remains a high-volatility digital asset that offers outstanding opportunities for dynamic investment, balanced by disciplined risk management. The recent price recovery underscores IOTA's capacity for rapid, robust upward moves, yet evolving macro conditions warrant a selective approach. Immediate technical supports to monitor are 3.20 ZAR (approx. $0.17 USD), with resistance at 4.75 ZAR (approx. $0.25 USD). The next major protocol milestone, slated for Q2 2025, could prove a decisive catalyst for IOTA’s future trajectory.

How to buy IOTA?

It’s simple and secure to buy the IOTA cryptocurrency online via a regulated trading platform. As a private investor in South Africa, you essentially have two main options: classic spot purchase of IOTA for direct ownership, or trading IOTA’s price evolution using a CFD (Contract for Difference), where you don’t actually own the underlying asset. Both methods have advantages and risks; your choice depends on your investment goals and how you want to manage your exposure. For a detailed comparison of the leading platforms available in ZA, see our dedicated overview further down this page.

Spot Purchase: Owning IOTA Directly

Buying IOTA “spot” means purchasing the actual MIOTA tokens and storing them in your own private wallet (digital or hardware). This approach aims for real ownership: you can transfer, hold or eventually sell your coins at will. On major South African crypto platforms, the usual fee is a fixed commission per transaction, often around 0.5%–1% plus a possible flat withdrawal charge, all in local currency (ZAR).

Practical example

Suppose the IOTA price is $0.18 (roughly R3.40 at current rates). With a R20,000 investment (~€1,000), less about R100 in fees, you can buy approximately 5,850 MIOTA coins.

Profit scenario

If IOTA rises 10%, your portfolio is now worth R22,000. Result: +R2,000 gross gain, or +10% on your original investment.

Trading via CFD

Trading IOTA via a CFD means you speculate on its price movements without owning the actual tokens. You simply open a position up (“buy”/long) or down (“sell”/short) on IOTA’s price with your broker. CFD fees typically include a spread (difference between buy and sell price) plus overnight funding charges if you hold your position for more than 24 hours.

Example with leverage

You invest R20,000 on an IOTA CFD, using a 5:1 leverage. This gives you exposure to R100,000 worth of IOTA in the market.

Profit scenario

If IOTA increases by 8%, your 5x leverage amplifies this to a 40% return. Result: +R8,000 gain, on your R20,000 stake (excluding fees).

Final Advice

Always compare the fees, trading rules, and security levels of different platforms before you invest. The best method depends on your objectives—direct ownership may suit long-term holders, while leveraged CFDs can appeal to active traders seeking to profit from short-term volatility. Explore our platform comparator below to make an informed decision tailored to your needs and experience level.

Our 7 tips for buying IOTA

The latest news about IOTA

Partnership with Tony Blair Institute advances digital trade infrastructure across Africa, with direct potential for South Africa. On June 3rd, 2025, IOTA announced a strategic partnership with the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change to modernize digital trade infrastructure throughout Africa. This initiative is particularly significant for countries like South Africa, whose government and private sector are increasingly prioritizing electronic trade and cross-border digital logistics. The collaboration aims to leverage IOTA’s scalable, low-cost distributed ledger for trade documentation, supply chain traceability, and secure data exchange, potentially enabling South African exporters to participate in streamlined, blockchain-powered trade processes with lower friction and improved compliance.

TWIN Foundation launch in Zambia marks a pan-African IOTA initiative, drawing attention from the Southern African innovation ecosystem. On May 8th, 2025, the launch of the TWIN Foundation in Lusaka, Zambia, supported by the World Economic Forum, positioned IOTA as a critical layer in Africa’s emerging digital commerce and identity infrastructure. Given geographic and economic ties within the SADC region, South African institutions and fintechs are closely monitoring this development. The TWIN Foundation’s focus on infrastructure for digital identity, asset tokenization, and trade—using IOTA’s “Tangle” technology—could facilitate regional solutions and pilot projects that include South African businesses, especially within customs, cross-border payments, and certifications.

IOTA Rebased mainnet upgrade unlocks greater decentralization, efficiency, and institutional appeal—key for regulated markets like South Africa. IOTA’s Rebased mainnet, launched in early May 2025, marks the project’s most significant protocol evolution to date. This upgrade introduces delegated Proof-of-Stake (dPoS), brings in 150 validator slots, and integrates the Move Virtual Machine, addressing historic criticism about IOTA’s centralization and technical complexity. For South African asset managers and regulated financial intermediaries, these changes strengthen IOTA’s compliance profile and operational resilience, potentially facilitating wider consideration in local digital asset offerings and multilateral digital commerce networks. The protocol’s move towards efficiency and decentralization is aligned with regional regulatory focus on security, transparency, and innovation.

Rising African focus boosts institutional and regulatory interest in IOTA across Southern Africa. In the weeks following the continental TWIN initiative and partnership announcements, industry watchers in South Africa note a visible increase in local fintechs, banks, and logistics firms evaluating IOTA’s relevance to their markets. As the country advances on digital asset regulations (with the FSCA licensing crypto asset service providers from June 2025), IOTA’s expanded African footprint and its institutional custody partnerships (such as with Zodia Custody) create a favorable environment for compliant, enterprise-grade deployments. Senior executives from South African financial firms have publicly commented on the growing need for cross-border blockchain standards—a need IOTA is now actively targeting.

IOTA’s core features—scalability, minimal fees, and IoT integration—remain highly relevant for South Africa’s digital transformation agenda. IOTA’s unique DAG-based “Tangle” architecture, which improves throughput as adoption scales and historically operated with zero fees (now with minimal fees post-Rebased upgrade), directly addresses infrastructure challenges faced by South African ICT and logistics sectors. With South Africa’s government-driven initiatives in digital identity, IoT, and supply chain modernization, IOTA’s technological value proposition aligns with public and private ambitions to implement frictionless, decentralized data networks able to address legacy inefficiencies across the region.

FAQ

P. Laurore

Finance expert

Co-founder of HelloSafe and holder of a Master's degree in finance, Pauline has recognised expertise in personal finance, which she uses to help users better understand and optimise their financial choices. At HelloSafe, Pauline plays a key role in designing clear, educational content on savings, investments and personal finance. Passionate about financial education, Pauline strives, with every piece of content she oversees, to provide reliable, transparent and unbiased information for independent and informed financial management. To this end, she has tested over 100 trading platforms to help internet users make the right choices.