Vitalik Buterin knows how to make an entrance. And he does it in his own, unpredictable – and yet amusing – way.
He reached Tokyo on 30 July. EDCON 2024made a lasting impression. When he came on stage he wore a black, loose-fitting kimono with large sleeves which, in contrast to his usual down-to-earth manner, exuded mystery and eccentricity. The highlight of this look was a striking black and white horse head mask which both delighted and shocked the audience.
The guests laughed at this showoff and got involved in the trick despite his distinctive look and manner. A voice from the crowd said, “Who are you?” Buterin announced himself as a “Dogecoin hodler,” which made people laugh and wonder at the same time. However, this little show created a light-hearted atmosphere, which later turned into a serious discussion on the future of Ethereum.
Everyone: Who are you?
V: I am a Dogecoin holder.#EDCON2024 @dogecoin @vitalikbuterin pic.twitter.com/Uyj9A0U8k3
— EDCON (@EDCON2024) July 30, 2024
Buterin’s Dogecoin connection
Although to the surprise of some, Vitalik Buterin’s self-identification has come as a Dogecoin Hodler’s action was indicative of his long, albeit unusual, association with the meme coin to many who already knew him. Interview with Lex Friedman From 2021, Buterin spoke about his early efforts with Dogecoin, which he started with a small investment of $25,000 in 2016. This original investment had grown to an astonishing $4.3 million by June 2021.
Donating has been one of the priorities of the Ethereum founder as he believes in the power of giving and helping people. The move reflected his readiness to mix idealism with realism and his belief that cryptocurrencies can change the world.
A tale of two memes: Shiba Inu vs Dogecoin
Buterin’s bias in favor of Dogecoin is in stark contrast to his opinion about Shiba Inu, another famous joke coin. Even though Shiba Inu is based on the Ethereum network, Buterin has openly expressed his doubts.
Related reading: Bright horizon ahead: Bitcoin and mining industry poised for breakthrough – study
He said that SHIB would just be another overhyped meme coin that would eventually fall apart. In a rare admission from Ethereum’s often visionary inventor, he admitted that Shiba Inu’s persistence and growth had surpassed his expectations.
Not just a bit of drama, but Buterin’s brilliant revelations at EDCON 2024 confirmed his quirky but deliberate attitude towards the crypto market. As he shapes the path of Ethereum, his playful support of Dogecoin reminds us of the diversity and often unpredictable nature of the digital currency market.
Featured image via Tokyo Chippo, chart via TradingView
