Vitalik Buterin knows exactly how to make a spectacular entrance. And he does it in his own way, in an unpredictable and fun way.
Arrived in Tokyo on July 30th to EDCON 2024leaving an indelible impression. He wore a loose black kimono with wide sleeves as he entered the stage, shrouded in mystery and extravagance, in contrast to his usual basic demeanor. The centerpiece of this look was a striking black and white horse head mask that both delighted and mystified onlookers.
The guests laughed at the farce and went along with the ruse despite his distinctive appearance and manner. A voice said, “Who are you?” from the crowd. Buterin announced himself as a “Dogecoin holder” with a graceful gesture, making people laugh and wonder at the same time. Nevertheless, the brief show created a light-hearted atmosphere for what would become a serious discussion about the future of ethereum.
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All: Who are you?
V: I am a Dogecoin holder.twitter.com/hashtag/EDCON2024?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw” rel=”nofollow noopener” target=”_blank”>#EDCON2024 twitter.com/dogecoin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw” rel=”nofollow noopener” target=”_blank”>@dogecoin twitter.com/VitalikButerin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw” rel=”nofollow noopener” target=”_blank”>@VitalikButerin photo.twitter.com/Uyj9A0U8k3
—EDCON (@EDCON2024) twitter.com/EDCON2024/status/1818197471811760522?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw” rel=”nofollow noopener” target=”_blank”>July 30, 2024
Buterin's connection to Dogecoin
Although it surprised some, Vitalik Buterin's self-identification as Dogecoin Hodler was indicative of his long, albeit unusual, association with the meme coin to many who knew him in the past. Interview with Lex Friedman As of 2021, Buterin spoke of his initial efforts with Dogecoin, which began in 2016 with a small investment of $25,000. This original investment had ballooned to a staggering $4.3 million by June 2021.
Charity has been one of the ethereum founder's priorities, as he believes in the power of giving and helping people. This decision demonstrated his willingness to combine idealism with realism and his belief that cryptocurrencies can transform the world.
A tale of two memes: Shiba Inu vs. Dogecoin
Buterin's preference for Dogecoin is in stark contrast to his views on Shiba Inu, another well-known joke coin. Even though Shiba Inu is based on the ethereum network, Buterin has openly expressed his doubts.
Related Reading: Bright horizons ahead: bitcoin and mining industry poised for success, study finds
He said that SHIB will become another overvalued meme coin that will eventually fall. In a rare admission from the often forward-thinking ethereum inventor, he admitted that Shiba Inu’s tenacity and development had exceeded his expectations.
Buterin’s spectacular reveal at EDCON 2024 wasn’t just a bit of theatre, it confirmed his quirky yet deliberate attitude towards the cryptocurrency market. While shaping ethereum’s path, his playful endorsement of Dogecoin reminds us of the varied and often unexpected nature of the digital currency market.
Featured image of Tokyo Cheapo, chart from TradingView
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