Are NFTs Entering a ‘Golden Age’? Expert Roundtable

Are NFTs Entering a ‘Golden Age’? Expert Roundtable

While the initial hype that surrounded non-fungible tokens (NFTs) in 2021 may have died down in the last couple of years, a number of people in the space continue to make bullish bets on the industry’s future.

Of course, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) recent statement on potentially classifying NFTs as securities has stirred some speculation and volatility in the market, but it has also drawn attention back to it.

In more recent years, NFTs have moved beyond their speculative origins, expanding into use-case applications like gaming, real estate, the luxury industry, museums, ticketing, and intellectual property.

Fad or valuable (and potentially profitable?) products in their own right? Let’s revisit the world of NFTs.

Key Takeaways

  • Initially driven by speculation, NFTs are evolving into tools with practical applications in gaming, real estate, and more.
  • NFTs provide artists with irrefutable proof of ownership and authenticity, protecting their work from unauthorized reproduction and forgery.
  • The value of NFTs could be compared to that of traditional art – emphasizing long-term ownership and appreciation.
  • And then there are NFTs increasingly used for tokenizing real-world assets like property, adding tangible benefits and liquidity.
  • The future of NFTs lies in their practical applications rather than speculative excitement.

The NFT Space Is Going Through a Metamorphosis

The life cycle of NFTs thus far could be compared to that of a butterfly. Born as caterpillars, they started out as something different from their future form, undergoing a transformative cocooning process before reaching that final butterfly stage.

It seems that the current stage in the life cycle of NFTs could be compared to that cocooning stage — appearing dormant but quietly undergoing transformation, preparing to emerge in a new and evolved form.

A recent study conducted by NFT Evening made a loud statement: 96% of NFTs are considered “dead” based on three factors: zero trading volumeminimal seven-day sales, and inactivity on Twitter.

The study further emphasized that the average lifespan of an NFT is also notably shorter than the average span of more traditional crypto projects.

“The average lifespan of an NFT is notably short. The average lifespan of an NFT is now 1.14 years, which is 2.5 times shorter than the average lifespan of traditional crypto projects. This short lifespan reflects the intense speculative nature of NFTs, where rapid price fluctuations and the novelty of digital assets fail to sustain long-term value.”

However, such findings could also be argued.

NFTs, unlike cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (BTC) or Ethereum (ETH), are not meant to be traded constantly. While BTC and ETH function as digital currencies and stores of value with high liquidity, NFTs represent unique digital assets, often more akin to owning traditional art or collectibles.

Just as you would not trade a Monet or a Picasso every day, NFTs hold an intrinsic value that is less about constant market activity and more about long-term ownership and appreciation.

Speaking with Techopedia, Anndy Lian, an inter-governmental blockchain advisor and author of NFT: From Zero to Herohighlighted that the NFT space is currently undergoing that exact “metamorphosis” process.

“We are actually seeing a shift happening right now, moving away from pure speculation and towards more concrete use cases.  For example, digital artists are using NFTs to prove ownership and authenticity of their work, and the gaming industry is exploring NFTs for in-game items and unique experiences.”

Needless to say, NFTs continue to be novelty-driven and playful; however, their focus is undoubtedly starting to shift gradually toward utility and long-term value.

NFTs Continue to Open Doors for Artists

For years, one of the most prominent issues in the arts industry was proof of ownership. Artists often struggled with unauthorized reproductions, forgeries, and disputes over who truly owned a piece, especially in the digital era where copying and sharing artwork online became effortless.

NFTs provide undeniable proof of ownership for artists’ digital creations, arguably a silver bullet for those who have struggled with copyright infringement in the digital age.

Glam Beckett, the creative director of Sad Girls Bar, an NFT collection recognizable for its monochrome, hand-drawn female profile pictures, added that NFTs are an additional revenue stream and a way for many artists to attract new audiences and collectors.

In addition, NFTs help artists unleash more of their creativity, allowing them to experiment with animation, artificial intelligence (AI), and music.

Rhiannon Fletcher, an up-and-coming NFT artist was also bullish on the possibilities the technology gives new creators. 

“The NFT movement is the most significant artistic revolution we have seen since the invention of the photograph. Artificial Intelligence is breaking down barriers, and the blockchain, with its provenance and smart contracts, is providing the tools that artists need to be fully independent.

“The global community forming around the NFT art scene should also not be dismissed. Online communities are on the rise, allowing people to connect in real-time from anywhere.”

Beyond that, the technology powering NFTs also serves as a direct line to collectors, cutting out traditional gatekeepers like galleries.

“This means artists can build closer relationships with their audience and potentially earn a more significant share of the profits from their work.

“The ability to program royalties into NFTs is also revolutionary, allowing artists to earn a percentage every time their work is resold,” Lian said.

NFTs Are Moving into RWA — It’s a Positive Change

While some people may not be such big fans of the initial NFT phase of profile pictures with collections such as Bored Apes Yacht Club and CryptoPunks emerging at the top, they do understand that they have played a crucial role in helping the industry develop into what it is today.

“I often equate PFP [profile picture] NFTs … to a bar selling coasters or matchbooks with their logos. PFPs served their purpose by driving the first sales cycle and drawing attention and eyeballs to the technology.

“Without this initial buy-in and hype, NFT projects would not have gotten the funding to work on the underlying tech,” Fletcher explained.

Fletcher added that NFT ticketing and real-world assets (RWAs), on the other hand, add more positive momentum to the industry as people start interacting with the technology in real-world situations.

“I have friends on Facebook who have attended concerts with NFT tickets, even though they are vocally against crypto.”

Lian added that RWA tokenization through NFTs has also the potential to streamline transactions and unlock liquidity in traditionally illiquid markets.

2021 NFT Craze Fueled By FOMO

There is no doubt that the 2021 levels of mainstream NFT frenzy were fueled by speculation and fear of missing out (FOMO), seeing how collections would sell for an unthinkable amount of money.

Despite that, saying people are no longer interested in the “OG” NFT movers would also not be entirely true, as headlines emerged on September 9, 2024, that a CryptoPunk was bought for 550ETH ($1,265,786.46 at the time of purchase).

Lian is also bullish on the future of NFTs, highlighting that the assets can totally achieve mainstream appeal again, but in a different way — rooted in their utility and tangible benefits.

“Think about it: most people do not care about the technicalities of blockchain. They care about what it can do for them.  If NFTs can seamlessly integrate into our digital lives — enhancing gaming experiences, streamlining ticketing, revolutionizing digital art — then mainstream adoption will follow naturally.”

Fletcher compared the initial NFT boom to BTC, noting that BTC was also “pure speculation in its beginnings,” with first news cases grounded in casinos and poker games.

“Non-speculative NFT projects will ultimately become integrated into everyday life. In 20 years, we will wonder how we ever got along without them, much like many people can’t imagine a world before the Internet.”

The Bottom Line

With an overwhelming amount of discussions within the crypto communities that this could be the end of NFTs, it surely does feel refreshing to be met with such positive remarks.

I have always been fascinated with NFTs. I truly enjoy how a groundbreaking technology such as decentralized finance (DeFi) can integrate so easily with the cultural industry, opening doors for artists, creators, and musicians.

So, with all of this in mind, I leave it to you: could we really be entering the “golden age” of NFTs?

 

Source: https://www.techopedia.com/are-nfts-entering-a-golden-age-expert-roundtable

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”.

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Deciphering the Shiba Inu Surge: A Q&A with Blockchain Expert Anndy Lian

Deciphering the Shiba Inu Surge: A Q&A with Blockchain Expert Anndy Lian

The Shiba Inu token has taken the crypto world by storm, experiencing a dramatic price surge that has left many wondering about the driving forces behind its momentum. To understand this phenomenon, The Shib sat down with Anndy Lian, a renowned blockchain expert and seasoned industry insider, to get his perspective on the factors fueling Shiba Inu’s rise and its potential for long-term success.

The Shib: What are the underlying factors driving Shiba Inu’s recent price surge? Are there any fundamental changes in the cryptocurrency market or within the Shiba Inu ecosystem that have contributed to this growth? How has market sentiment and FOMO played a role in this surge?

Lian: “Shiba Inu’s recent price surge can be attributed to several key factors within the cryptocurrency market and the Shiba Inu ecosystem itself. One of the primary drivers is the significant increase in on-chain activities. This includes a spike in trading volume, token circulation, and whale transactions, indicating heightened market interest and liquidity. The surge in on-chain metrics suggests increased confidence in Shiba Inu’s short-term price movements.

Developments within the Shiba Inu ecosystem have played a crucial role. The integration of liquid staking into Shibarium, Shiba Inu’s layer-2 blockchain solution, has been a significant advancement. This feature allows users to earn rewards by staking their SHIB tokens, adding utility and attracting more participants to the network. Furthermore, the Shiba Inu community has been actively burning tokens, which reduces the available supply and can contribute to long-term price growth.”

The Shib: Based on technical analysis, what indicators or patterns suggest the sustainability of Shiba Inu’s recent price increase? Are there any potential resistance levels that could limit further gains? What is your outlook for Shiba Inu’s price in the coming months? Do you anticipate continued growth or a potential correction?

Lian: “Market sentiment and FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) have significantly contributed to Shiba Inu’s recent price surge. As the cryptocurrency market often thrives on investor sentiment, the increased social media buzz and heightened interest from retail investors have fueled a FOMO-driven rally. This is evident from the spike in Shiba Inu’s social dominance and trading volume, as noted in recent analyses. Such dynamics often lead to rapid price increases as investors rush to capitalize on perceived opportunities before prices climb higher.

From a technical analysis perspective, several indicators suggest the potential sustainability of Shiba Inu’s price increase. Bullish patterns have been identified, I would predict a possible of another 90% rise if current trends continue. However, Shiba Inu is approaching key resistance levels, notably around $0.000020, which could limit further gains if not surpassed. These levels are critical as they often act as psychological barriers where traders might take profits, potentially stalling the upward momentum. Looking ahead, the outlook for Shiba Inu’s price in the coming months is cautiously optimistic.”

The Shib: How do you assess Shiba Inu’s long-term prospects in the competitive cryptocurrency market? What factors will determine its success or failure? Can Shiba Inu transition beyond its meme coin origins to establish a sustainable value proposition?

Lian: “Shiba Inu’s long-term prospects in the competitive cryptocurrency market hinge on its ability to evolve beyond its meme coin origins and establish a sustainable value proposition. The ecosystem’s expansion through various projects like LEASH,BONE, SHIBOSHIS, and the anticipated $TREAT, as well as collaborations like Bad Idea AI, are crucial steps in this evolution.

The success of these projects will play a significant role in determining Shiba Inu’s future. Each project adds a layer of utility and diversification to the ecosystem, potentially attracting a broader user base and increasing the token’s intrinsic value. For instance, LEASH and BONE serve specific roles within the ShibaSwap platform, enhancing its functionality and appeal. The NFT ventures like SHIBOSHIS and SHEBOSHIS tap into the growing interest in digital collectibles, offering unique opportunities for engagement and investment.

Moreover, the introduction of innovative projects like Bad Idea AI could position Shiba Inu at the intersection of blockchain and emerging technologies, further distinguishing it from other meme coins. Success in these areas could lead to increased adoption and integration into various sectors, thereby solidifying its market position.

However, several factors will determine Shiba Inu’s success or failure. These include the ability to deliver on project promises, maintain community engagement, and adapt to regulatory changes. The cryptocurrency market’s volatility and competitive nature also pose challenges that require strategic navigation.”

The Shib: How has the Shiba Inu community’s role evolved during this recent surge? Has community engagement and development within the Shiba Inu ecosystem (e.g., Shibarium) contributed to the price appreciation? How might changing regulatory landscapes, both domestically and internationally, affect Shiba Inu’s future growth? Are there any emerging competitors or trends that could challenge Shiba Inu’s market position?

Lian: “The Shiba Inu community has played a pivotal role in the recent surge of the cryptocurrency, with engagement levels reaching unprecedented heights. Based on what I see, community engagement has exploded by over 12,000%, which has significantly contributed to the increased trading volume and price appreciation of SHIB. This active participation has been crucial in driving the momentum behind Shiba Inu’s growth, as community-driven initiatives often amplify interest and investment in the token.

The changing regulatory landscape poses potential challenges for Shiba Inu’s future growth. As governments worldwide continue to develop and implement cryptocurrency regulations, Shiba Inu must navigate these changes to ensure compliance and maintain its market position. Regulatory challenges could impact its adoption and integration into mainstream financial systems. Staying compliance is key for Shiba Inu. In near future, I think there is a need to consider how to present Shytoshi at events. I do not want to see the ‘leader’ getting into any trouble. Being careful is key.

Emerging competitors and trends, such as other meme coins like Pepe, could also challenge Shiba Inu’s market position. To remain competitive, Shiba Inu must continue to innovate and expand its ecosystem, leveraging partnerships with exchanges like OKX and Gate, and new projects like MemeCore. I noted that Shiba Inu is supportive of Neiro, even followed them. I again noted that Shibtoshi, verified billionaire and CEO of SquidGrow is now followed by Shiba Inu. This means Shiba Inu is uniting good projects and is open to work with good people. This would only help strengthen Shiba Inu as a whole.”

About The Expert

Anndy Lian is an all-rounded business strategist in Asia. He has provided advisory across a variety of industries for local, international, public listed companies and governments. He is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur, book author, investor, board member and keynote speaker. Anndy has held key positions in various organizations, including Chairman of BigONE Exchange and Advisory Board Member for Hyundai DAC. He is currently the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization, championing national digitization. Anndy is also an author, with his books “Blockchain Revolution 2030” and “NFT: From Zero to Hero” providing insights into the blockchain and NFT space. He is a strong advocate for blockchain technology and its potential to revolutionize traditional businesses.

 

Source: https://news.shib.io/2024/10/02/shiba-inu-surge-deciphering-a-qampa-with-blockchain-expert-anndy-lian/

 

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”.

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Inside the Wild World of Meme Coins: Interview With Expert Anndy Lian

Inside the Wild World of Meme Coins: Interview With Expert Anndy Lian

The rise of meme coins has been nothing short of meteoric. Fueled by online communities, social media hype, and the allure of quick riches, these digital tokens, often inspired by internet jokes and viral trends, have captured the attention of seasoned investors and curious newcomers alike.

But as the market explodes with new entrants, a critical question emerges: Are meme coins a legitimate investment opportunity or a speculative bubble destined to burst?

To gain deeper insights into this complex landscape, we spoke with industry expert Anndy Lian. Anndy, a seasoned observer of the crypto market, shared his perspectives on the economic drivers behind meme coin success, the role of social media, the regulatory challenges, and the potential future of this burgeoning asset class.

At the heart of the meme coin phenomenon lies a potent combination of community-driven momentum and social media amplification.

The Economic Drivers of Meme Coins

“The fundamental economic drivers behind the meteoric rise of meme coins can be attributed to the power of community-driven momentum,” Anndy Lian began. “Meme coins are often created and propelled by online communities, with no institutional backing or venture capital support. This grassroots approach allows community members from diverse backgrounds to come together and collectively drive the coin’s adoption and value.”

Lian emphasized the role of community in shaping meme coin success: “The community’s enthusiasm, creativity, and sense of ownership are the primary drivers of a meme coin’s success. As more people join the community and contribute to the coin’s ecosystem, the network effect takes hold, fueling further growth and adoption. This organic, community-led approach is a key differentiator from traditional asset classes, which often rely on institutional support and fundamental analysis.”

The Role of Social Media and Investor Sentiment

“I’ve noticed that meme coins tend to thrive on their online popularity rather than traditional market analysis,” Anndy Lian observes. “Social media platforms like X, Reddit, and Discord are the perfect storm for meme coin hype, with influencers and community leaders fueling the fire. I recently shared a post about a new meme coin called Moni on X, and it just so happens that it’s got a strong following among South Korean communities. Next thing I know, its value shot up 6 times! It’s crazy how sensitive these coins can be.”

Lian continued, “As you can imagine, meme coin prices are super volatile and can swing wildly based on what the community is saying. If a popular influencer tweets or posts something positive, the price can skyrocket. But on the flip side, a negative comment or a loss of interest from the community can send it plummeting. It’s like a rollercoaster ride, and you never know what’s going to happen next.”

Regulatory Challenges and Investor Protection

Addressing the regulatory landscape, Lian states, “The rise of meme coins has brought to the forefront the need for regulatory frameworks to get up to speed with the rapidly evolving crypto landscape. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves – meme coins aren’t some exotic asset class that requires a whole new set of rules. They’re an integral part of the broader crypto market, and our existing regulatory frameworks should be applied consistently across the board.”

He emphasizes the importance of investor education: “Rather than putting meme coins in a silo, regulators should focus on schooling investors on the unique quirks and risks that come with these community-driven cryptocurrencies. This means drilling home the importance of doing your homework, assessing the risks, and exercising caution when putting your money into meme coins.”

The Future of Meme Coins and Blockchain Technology

Lian expresses optimism about the long-term potential of meme coins: “I’m really excited about the potential long-term implications of meme coins for the crypto ecosystem and financial markets. When you think about it, community-driven meme coins are the ones that could really lead the charge in terms of adoption and innovation.”

He further elaborates, “Take the Shiba Inu token, for example. It’s got a huge global community of fans who are passionate about it. Now, imagine if each of those fans were to start their own Shiba Inu Cafe using a DAO franchise model. Suddenly, the token has real-world value and utility.”

On the role of blockchain technology, Lian states, “Blockchain tech can be a game-changer for meme coin platforms, making them more transparent and secure for investors. By leveraging blockchain’s decentralized and immutable ledger, these platforms can guarantee that all transactions are out in the open, tamper-proof, and accessible to everyone.”

Lian’s insights offer a clear-eyed perspective on the complex world of meme coins. While their meteoric rise has captivated the world, the underlying dynamics are far from simple. The power of community, the influence of social media, and the challenges of regulation converge to create a landscape fraught with both opportunities and risks.

As Lian suggests, the future of meme coins may lie in their ability to evolve beyond mere speculative assets and develop real-world utility. The integration of blockchain technology promises to enhance transparency and security, but the journey ahead is undoubtedly fraught with challenges.

Investors, enthusiasts, and regulators alike must navigate this uncharted territory with caution and discernment. Anndy’s emphasis on education and awareness is crucial for fostering a sustainable and responsible meme coin ecosystem.

About The Expert

Anndy Lian is a global business strategist and blockchain pioneer. With a deep understanding of both technology and business, he advises corporations, governments, and startups on harnessing blockchain’s potential. His roles include Chief Digital Advisor to Mongolia and leadership positions in major crypto exchanges and automotive giants. Anndy is a bestselling author and passionate advocate for blockchain’s transformative power.

 

Source: https://news.shib.io/2024/08/14/inside-the-wild-world-of-meme-coins-interview-with-expert-anndy-lian/

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”.

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