Binance, the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange, marked its 8th anniversary with a vibrant Twitter Spaces session titled Hear Your Stories, Share Your Own – #BinanceTurns8 Series Episode 1. Hosted by Binance Community Associates Diana and Mila, the event featured: Anndy Lian, a blockchain expert and best-selling author, and Sjuul Follings, founder of AltCryptoGems. The session offered a deep dive into Binance’s transformative impact, current market trends fueled by Bitcoin’s recent all-time highs, and practical advice for navigating the ever-evolving crypto landscape. With an engaging Q&A segment, the event also highlighted the voices of the Binance community, making it a fitting celebration of eight years of innovation and growth.
Binance’s Monumental Contributions to Crypto
Over the past eight years, Binance has evolved from a fledgling startup into a global powerhouse, boasting over 280 million users. The discussion kicked off with reflections on its pivotal role in shaping the cryptocurrency ecosystem. Sjuul Follings emphasized Binance’s success in onboarding new users, crediting its intuitive platform and robust educational resources. “Binance has made crypto easier for newcomers,” he noted, highlighting how the exchange has lowered barriers to entry since its early days in 2017. He also praised initiatives like Binance Labs, which have incubated groundbreaking blockchain projects, fostering innovation across the industry.
Anndy Lian, drawing from his long-standing relationship with Binance since its inception in China, underscored its leadership in security and compliance. He pointed to Binance’s pioneering efforts in collaborating with authorities to combat crypto-related crimes, a move that has bolstered user trust. “They were one of the first exchanges to build a comprehensive compliance department,” Lian said, noting how this focus on safety has distinguished Binance in a competitive market, from its strategic relocations, China to Japan, then Singapore to the UAE. Binance has consistently adapted, solidifying its position as a trailblazer.
Riding the Wave: Current Market Trends
With Bitcoin soaring to new all-time highs, recently surpassing $120,000, the session naturally turned to the state of the crypto market. Sjuul Follings observed a shifting dynamic, where altcoins are beginning to reclaim attention after Bitcoin’s prolonged dominance. “It feels like altcoins are finally getting a piece of the pie,” he said, predicting a potential rotation from Bitcoin to high-cap altcoins like Ethereum, and eventually to mid- and low-cap projects. He attributed Bitcoin’s surge to a combination of macroeconomic factors, including Federal Reserve rate cuts, institutional investments via ETFs, and easing inflation, which created a snowball effect of adoption and media buzz.
Anndy Lian, however, injected a note of caution. While celebrating the bullish momentum, he stressed that sustainable growth hinges on real-world development, not just speculation. “The price is running faster than the builders,” he warned, urging the community to support projects with tangible use cases. He cited examples like Bhutan’s collaboration with Binance Pay, the world’s first national crypto tourism payment system, as a model for practical adoption, enabling travelers to use cryptocurrency for flights, visas, and even coffee.
Guidance for New Investors
For the wave of newcomers entering the space amid this bull run, both speakers emphasized education and caution. Sjuul Follings shared a personal anecdote from his early days, describing his first crypto experience as “painful” after losing money on memecoins. “Start small, lose a little, and learn from it,” he advised, stressing the importance of transparency about the risks. He encouraged creators to highlight both the opportunities and pitfalls, ensuring new investors aren’t deterred by early setbacks.
Anndy Lian echoed this sentiment, advocating for due diligence over hype-chasing. “Find projects you trust and believe in,” he said, reflecting on his own journey from skepticism to conviction when he first used crypto to buy coffee. He also called for more builders to drive sustainable value, warning that without development, the current boom could falter. Both speakers agreed that Binance’s educational efforts—through content and user-friendly tools—play a critical role in equipping novices to thrive.
Community Voices: Q&A Highlights
The session’s open mic segment brought the Binance community into the spotlight, with listeners sharing stories and posing questions. One participant, Ahmed, asked about the speakers’ mining experiences. Sjuul admitted to dabbling in Dogecoin mining early on but losing access to the coins, while Anndy noted he’s invested in mining operations but avoids it personally due to high electricity costs.
A question about their biggest mistakes elicited candid responses. Sjuul reflected on losses from the Luna crash and a recent scam, underscoring the need for skepticism: “If it’s too good to be true, it probably is.” Community member Ming, from the Captain BNB community, inquired how Binance could expand into Western markets like the U.S. Anndy suggested closer collaboration with Binance and a push into Asia to broaden their footprint, encouraging the team to leverage their mascot’s appeal.
The philosophical query, “What moment made you believe in crypto?” drew heartfelt answers. For Sjuul, it was the 2021 bull run, when crypto’s mainstream visibility, from Formula 1 sponsorships to bus ads, convinced him of its staying power. Anndy pinpointed the moment he used crypto for everyday purchases, realizing its practical potential beyond finance.
Looking Ahead: Binance’s Role and Community Wisdom
As Binance steps into its ninth year, the speakers offered strategic feedback. Anndy proposed enhancing services for high-net-worth clients with relationship managers and a premium “Binance Black Card,” alongside a stronger focus on Web3 and decentralized exchanges (DEX). “DEX is the future,” he asserted, urging Binance to lead in this space to onboard users globally, especially those unable to access centralized platforms due to KYC barriers. Sjuul, unable to use Binance in the Netherlands due to licensing, suggested prioritizing regional compliance to recapture markets and recommended more engaging, educational content to attract new users.
Their parting words encapsulated their philosophies. Sjuul advised, “No one ever went broke by taking profits,” encouraging prudent gains-taking. Anndy countered, “Trust is the new hype,” urging conviction over crowd-following. Mila, reflecting on Binance’s journey, highlighted adaptability as a key lesson, noting how listening to users and pivoting swiftly has kept the platform ahead.
Summing Up
The #BinanceTurns8 Twitter Spaces session was a celebration of milestones and a forward-looking dialogue on crypto’s trajectory. From Binance’s role in onboarding millions and setting security standards to the market’s bullish surge and the need for sustainable growth, Anndy Lian and Sjuul Follings provided a roadmap for the future.
As Bitcoin scales new heights and adoption accelerates—evidenced by innovations like Binance Pay in Bhutan, the insights shared here underscore the importance of education, caution, and community in building a resilient crypto ecosystem. With Binance at the helm, the following billion users may well find their gateway to this transformative space.
Anndy Lian is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur who is known for his work in the government sector. He is a best selling book author- “NFT: From Zero to Hero” and “Blockchain Revolution 2030”.
Currently, he is appointed as the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization, championing national digitization. Prior to his current appointments, he was the Chairman of BigONE Exchange, a global top 30 ranked crypto spot exchange and was also the Advisory Board Member for Hyundai DAC, the blockchain arm of South Korea’s largest car manufacturer Hyundai Motor Group. Lian played a pivotal role as the Blockchain Advisor for Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in the Asia-Pacific region.
An avid supporter of incubating start-ups, Anndy has also been a private investor for the past eight years. With a growth investment mindset, Anndy strategically demonstrates this in the companies he chooses to be involved with. He believes that what he is doing through blockchain technology currently will revolutionise and redefine traditional businesses. He also believes that the blockchain industry has to be “redecentralised”.
The world of blockchain technology is rapidly expanding, promising revolutionary changes across borders and industries. In a recent talk show episode titled “Blockchain Beyond Borders: Building Global Bridges for Innovation and Adoption,” industry experts gathered at the ABC Conclave in Dubai to discuss the transformative potential of blockchain technology. Panelists included Anndy Lian, an Intergovernmental Blockchain Expert from Singapore; Kris Bennett, Co-Founder and Chief Learning Officer of the Blockchain Training Alliance in the USA; Raj Kapoor, Founder & CEO of the India Blockchain Alliance; and Shailesh Kunnath, Co-Founder of Masary Capital in the UAE. Moderated by Jenny Zheng; Co-founder, Blockcast.cc.
Identifying Real Solutions Amidst the Fluff
The panelists engaged in a dynamic conversation, sharing their perspectives on the blockchain landscape’s key considerations for success. Raj Kapoor kicked off the discussion by emphasizing the importance of addressing real-world problems through blockchain solutions. He highlighted that the market often gets flooded with proposals that lack substance, urging entrepreneurs to go beyond the hype. Kapoor stressed that genuine innovation must tackle real challenges or enhance existing solutions to be impactful.
Critical Criteria for Sustainable Blockchain Projects
Jenny Zheng then outlined several critical criteria he uses to evaluate blockchain projects. First and foremost, she emphasized the significance of solving real-world problems. She stated that projects should demonstrate how they enhance existing solutions or address pressing issues. Jenny also scrutinizes the longevity of project promoters, looking beyond financial factors to their determination and commitment. She noted the value of having validation, even in the form of a small customer base or a proof of concept. Additionally, she assessed the hunger and dedication of project promoters, along with family and friends’ initial support, as indicators of credibility. Jenny’s insights highlighted the multifaceted nature of project evaluation.
Perspectives on Blockchain Adoption
Kris Bennett chimed in, offering his perspective on blockchain adoption. He highlighted the common tendency to prioritize technology in emerging industries, cautioning against neglecting practicality and value delivery. Bennett stressed that being the first to market doesn’t guarantee success. Drawing a historical parallel to Amazon’s rise in the e-commerce sector, he noted that timing and impact matter more than being the earliest player. Bennett also emphasized the importance of conveying value without relying solely on technology jargon, urging entrepreneurs to articulate the benefits of their solutions independently of blockchain or crypto references. Lastly, he underscored the significance of building a strong, well-rounded team with diverse expertise to drive success.
Community, Education, and Future Growth
Anndy Lian added his insights, focusing on the role of education and community in blockchain growth. Lian highlighted the necessity of educating not only individuals but also entire ecosystems, including venture capitalists and regulators. He commended Dubai’s proactive approach to fostering blockchain education and innovation. Lian also discussed the importance of community engagement, explaining that a vibrant and supportive community is crucial for sustained blockchain adoption. He encouraged a collaborative approach where different stakeholders contribute to the technology’s advancement.
Regulatory Strategies for Blockchain Innovation
Transitioning to regulatory concerns, Lian, drawing from his experience with governments and regulatory bodies, emphasized the evolving nature of blockchain regulation. He acknowledged that many countries are grappling with regulatory frameworks for this emerging technology. Lian stressed the importance of cross-border transactions and the need for cooperation to ensure stability in the financial sector. He highlighted the significance of developing clear regulatory guidelines to support the growth of blockchain while safeguarding financial systems.
In Conclusion
In the era of blockchain, collaboration, education, and a problem-solving mindset stand as critical pillars for success. The panelists’ insights underscored the dynamic and multifaceted nature of the blockchain landscape, revealing the need for innovative solutions, well-structured teams, community engagement, and regulatory clarity to drive the technology’s transformative potential globally. As the world continues to navigate the opportunities and challenges presented by blockchain, one thing remains clear: the path to success is paved with innovation and collaboration.
Anndy Lian is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur who is known for his work in the government sector. He is a best selling book author- “NFT: From Zero to Hero” and “Blockchain Revolution 2030”.
Currently, he is appointed as the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization, championing national digitization. Prior to his current appointments, he was the Chairman of BigONE Exchange, a global top 30 ranked crypto spot exchange and was also the Advisory Board Member for Hyundai DAC, the blockchain arm of South Korea’s largest car manufacturer Hyundai Motor Group. Lian played a pivotal role as the Blockchain Advisor for Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in the Asia-Pacific region.
An avid supporter of incubating start-ups, Anndy has also been a private investor for the past eight years. With a growth investment mindset, Anndy strategically demonstrates this in the companies he chooses to be involved with. He believes that what he is doing through blockchain technology currently will revolutionise and redefine traditional businesses. He also believes that the blockchain industry has to be “redecentralised”.
Anndy Lian spoke at ApeX Dex Talks Episode 9 on 9 November 2022. ApeX DeX Talks is a weekly fireside chat happening every Wednesday on ApeX Protocol’s official Twitter. The host used this segment to have real conversations on real decentralization with leading voices in the web3 space.
Anndy Lian is a Thought Leader, Investor & Best-Selling Author. His latest book titled NFT: From Zero to Hero is also well-accepted by the NFT community.
At the talk, the host and Anndy touched on the following:
– Let’s begin with an Introduction of yourself, and tell us more about your background in the crypto space. How long have you been active in crypto and what have your experiences been like so far?
– Sounds like you have been through a lot in this space. So Anndy, can you dive into the basics of NFTs and what is it usually used for in web3 at the moment?
– What other kinds of use cases do you think the technology of NFTs would be able to help with the real world? Do you think NFTs could eventually replace the traditional paper certificates of ownership like real estates, wills and legal documents?
– Could you share with us what are your thoughts on the future of NFTs and its relevance to the real world. When do you think mass adoption of NFTs would become a mainstream thing?
– We have seen a common occurrence in the NFT space where bots and snipers are constantly manipulating prices of NFT launches. Do you think that industry experts should be coming up with preventive measures to curb such actions or that this is actually healthy for the space?
– Do you think that NFTs have a chance in the eSports scene or any other gaming sectors? How do you think NFTs will be integrated and which projects are most likely to welcome NFTs to their ecosystem?
– Let’s talk about DEXes and why is it an indispensable part of DeFi:
We have all seen the recent saga between Binance and FTX, where FTX has announced that they are facing liquidity issues and their users may not be able to withdraw all their funds. What is your opinion on this and how could this have been avoided?
– What is your take on Decentralized exchanges? What do you think are some of the advantages offered by DEXes as opposed to their centralized counterparts?
– What are your thoughts on the ApeX Protocol?I know you have tried the product already, maybe you can share your thoughts with our listeners.
– Another question I would like to ask you that concerns AperX, as you know on ApeX Pro, the SBT ApeSoul will be used to establish a trader’s trading performance and reputation in a social trading model, erasing the need for manual verification via a centralized entity. Traders have full control over the creation of their ApeSouls.
ApeSouls are linked to a trader’s trading profile (DID — Digital Identity), which includes data such as trading volume, number of trades, open interest, ranking, profits and more. With this, ApeX Pro traders can make their foray into Web 3.0 social trading, where Principal Traders can be determined automatically on the protocol via the data locked on a trader’s unique ApeSoul.
What are your thoughts on using SBTs in social trading?
Anndy ended the talk by asking all to be cautious in the current crypto environment. “Always do your own research.”
Find out more about Dex Talks at Twitter @OfficialApexDex.
Anndy Lian is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur who is known for his work in the government sector. He is a best selling book author- “NFT: From Zero to Hero” and “Blockchain Revolution 2030”.
Currently, he is appointed as the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization, championing national digitization. Prior to his current appointments, he was the Chairman of BigONE Exchange, a global top 30 ranked crypto spot exchange and was also the Advisory Board Member for Hyundai DAC, the blockchain arm of South Korea’s largest car manufacturer Hyundai Motor Group. Lian played a pivotal role as the Blockchain Advisor for Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in the Asia-Pacific region.
An avid supporter of incubating start-ups, Anndy has also been a private investor for the past eight years. With a growth investment mindset, Anndy strategically demonstrates this in the companies he chooses to be involved with. He believes that what he is doing through blockchain technology currently will revolutionise and redefine traditional businesses. He also believes that the blockchain industry has to be “redecentralised”.
