The first thing to know is that some of this homework is done before an offering reaches you, because a channel has to meet minimum thresholds before GigaStar will consider it. We also verify revenue metrics directly from YouTube through an API, and we run a background check and interview every Creator, but clearing all of that is a floor, not an endorsement.

From there, look for consistency rather than peaks, since a channel that has earned steadily for years tells you more than one viral month. It’s also worth checking where the revenue comes from, because a Creator whose income is spread across a back catalog of videos is less exposed than one who depends on a handful of hits or a single sponsor.

Look at the trend, too, meaning whether views and revenue are growing, flat, or declining, and whether the Creator is still uploading regularly.

Finally, read the offering circular, understand which revenue you’re sharing in and for how long, and invest only what you can hold long term, because past revenue is never a guarantee of future returns.