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The controversy surrounding VShojo has definitely had a significant impact on the VTubing community, particularly in the Western market. Reports indicate that following the departure of prominent Vtubers and allegations of financial mismanagement, a severe loss of trust has spread, especially concerning VTuber agencies that are not established giants like Hololive or Nijisanji. There is now a strong anti-corporate sentiment among both creators and fans.
However, this doesn't necessarily mean that VTubing as a whole is no longer profitable. In fact, the broader VTuber market is still projected to be worth billions of dollars in 2025 and is expected to continue growing. The key is that the profitability is becoming more concentrated.
Here's a breakdown of the current landscape:
* Growth in overall market size: The VTuber market is estimated at nearly $3 billion in 2025 and is projected to continue growing. Viewership is at an all-time high, with the first quarter of the year seeing over 500 million hours watched.
* A "wealth gap" is forming: While the big agencies and top independent Vtubers are thriving and earning significant income, a study in mid-2025 found that income is highly concentrated. The vast majority of Vtubers—especially smaller, independent creators—are struggling to make a living, with a median monthly income far below the average.
* The rise of indies: The VShojo situation has amplified an existing trend: many creators and fans are shifting their support away from corporate agencies and toward independent Vtubers. This is creating a more saturated indie scene where it is becoming harder for new creators to gain traction.
* Agencies are struggling, but not all: While some smaller agencies may fail due to a lack of trust and funding, the major players like Hololive and Nijisanji continue to dominate in terms of revenue and viewership. They are expanding their global reach and securing collaborations with major brands.
So, while the VShojo controversy has created a sense of distrust in certain parts of the industry, it's more of a restructuring than a collapse. The money is still there, but it's flowing more toward the established giants and a handful of very successful independent creators, making it a much tougher and more competitive environment for aspiring Vtubers.
Also memes.
