I would be careful about the buzz around ICO's
I would much rather research a ICO myself and look into why it would be a good idea to invest. It is too easy to pay for advertising (which might not be the most promising / innovative ICO)
Media only really picks up on ICO's if there is a large amount of money being invested into a specific ICO. While this shows that people are interested, it does not tell you about the company, and if they are going to succeed.
For me there are a few signs to look for in a ICO
- Strong team - Both in development team and also the CEO's / marketing (no point having a great team to create something, if nobody can advertsie it and push the startup in the right direction.
- Realistic vision - not aiming too high or if they do not reach their target everyone who invested will be disappointed
- Solid whitepaper - Well thought out, shows realistic goals, a strong good vision and a plan of action
- Strong social media presence - A social media that shows they are connected with everyone
- Good customer support - Shows they care, and they have invested time and money into making sure the average investor can ask questions
- Good website - A business who is willing to throw time and effort into a good website are less likely to be a scam
- finite supply - ICO's with no cap can be dangerous and can simply just damage their own coin by releasing more for more investment.
-Market they are getting involved with - Is this a new market? or a dying one? who controls the market?
Finally
- Good concept and catchy name - A good ethos and a name that makes them stand out. Personally i would avoid anything that is something "coin".
If these are in place, then it's a good sign. I am looking at Crowdholding at the minute, seems like a good upcoming ICO (They are in their pre-sale), meaning you can get more for your investment.
https://ico.crowdholding.com/