Community, Chains, and the Future of Crypto: Insights from Anndy Lian

Community, Chains, and the Future of Crypto: Insights from Anndy Lian

Dan sat down with Anndy Lian, blockchain strategist and thought leader, to discuss the current state of the crypto industry, the challenges of adoption, and the critical role of community. The conversation, rich with practical wisdom and candid observations, offers a roadmap for both newcomers and veterans navigating the ever-evolving world of blockchain.

The Institutional Chill: Why Retail Users Feel Left Out
The interview opens with a frank assessment of the crypto landscape. Dan notes, “Everything is very institutional, very cold, and retail users can’t get involved with most of this stuff.” Anndy agrees wholeheartedly, highlighting a core issue: the barriers to entry remain high, not just because of technical complexity, but also because the industry often fails to make a genuine effort to include everyday users.

Anndy elaborates, “People are not trying hard enough, that’s number one. The second part is they are actually getting into the wrong kind of projects.” He points out that many newcomers are lured into complex decentralized exchanges (DEXs) or swaps, which are difficult to manage and understand. “How are you going to stick, how are you going to extract from what they are buying? It’s very technical,” he says, emphasizing that the steep learning curve can be discouraging.

Lowering the Barriers: The Role of Meme Coins and Gaming
So, what’s the solution? Anndy suggests that the best entry point for new users might be through “fun meme coins or maybe even gaming stuff.” He believes that starting with simple, accessible projects can help users build confidence before tackling more complex aspects of crypto. “Keep it simple, easy to understand, and then you start going to the higher levels, the higher complexities,” he advises.

This approach, he argues, is essential because “no one’s going to understand swapping and wallets and seed phrases right off the bat, and there’s a huge amount of risk with that.” By making the onboarding process less intimidating, the industry can attract a broader audience and foster genuine engagement.

Choosing the Right Chain: More Than Just Technology
Another recurring theme in the conversation is the importance of choosing the right blockchain. Anndy observes that while there are over 200 blockchains, only a handful have real activity, incentives, and communities. “You’ve got to really choose the right chain, even if you’re going to launch a meme or maybe a utility. You’ve got to choose the right chain that gives you the support,” he says.

He warns that launching a project on a chain without financial or community support is a recipe for failure. “If you are on a chain where there’s no support in terms of money, no support in terms of community, it gets a little bit awkward for the project owner. It’s very difficult for people to enter into that particular chain because no one else is using it.”

Dan summarizes the challenge: “If you don’t build a blockchain that could support [a real community], you’re not going to get any users.” Anndy agrees, noting that the lack of users adds to the barrier of entry. “If the entry is easy, I come to my buddy, ‘Are you on X chain?’ You say, ‘Yes, I am, let’s do it.’ But if you’re on some chain where you couldn’t even find it in the wallet, it’s just going to be useless. We’re on different planets at that point.”

Community First: The Heartbeat of Crypto
For Anndy, the most critical factor in any blockchain project is the community. “Whenever we talk about adoption, whenever we talk about users, it goes back to the community. If you have a blockchain that is just a blockchain, it’s useless. You need people to use it, you need people to keep the network sustainable.”

He continues, “It’s no longer about user experience, how much revenue are they generating. Because no user, no experience.” In his view, the technology is largely commoditized—“the technology-wise, it’s almost the same for everybody”—so the differentiator is the strength and vibrancy of the community.

This is why meme coins, despite their reputation, have found success. “It’s not that I love the meme coins, but I love the community. The community is strong, and if the community is strong, there’s going to be more growth. It has to be always community first and there’s nothing else.”

The Reality of Risk: Learning Through Loss
Anndy doesn’t shy away from the risks inherent in crypto. He acknowledges that losing money is “part and parcel of this whole process,” and that it’s often the fastest way to learn. “It depends on how much you want to screw this up, right? But if you are just thinking about trying out, you really need to go through the whole process of how you’re going to onboard your users, how you’re going to manage all these different swaps. Sometimes it’s not easy, man. I have people crying, saying that they sent to the wrong chain.”

He sees these challenges as opportunities for education, suggesting that resources like Dan’s podcast can help newcomers avoid common pitfalls. “It’s part and parcel of education, and perhaps they should listen to your podcast.”

The Social Layer: Where Crypto Communities Gather
The conversation shifts to where crypto communities actually gather online. While X (formerly Twitter) is the hub for the latest news and activity among crypto natives, Anndy points out that Facebook remains surprisingly vibrant, especially among older users in places like Hong Kong. “You’ll be so surprised. When I’m in Hong Kong, when I talk to some of the older folks, they are actually super active on Facebook. They showed me their groups—crazy groups, man. That’s something I’ve neglected for a long time, but it’s amazing to see.”

He shares that some Facebook groups have over 140,000 active members, many of whom are highly engaged. “Whenever they post something, you get so many replies below. I’m actually really, really happy to see that.” This diversity of platforms, he suggests, is a strength, and he encourages multi-platform engagement to reach different audiences.

Building Together: Collaboration and the Future
Anndy closes with a call for greater collaboration and unity within the crypto space. “It’s all about interacting with people. For your audiences who are on YouTube, I also strongly suggest that you get yourself on X as well. We could do some shows together and get the ball rolling because we are literally talking to the same kind of target audience and we should start to unite and make some things work.”

He also sees potential in leveraging Facebook and other platforms to reach new demographics, especially those who may be overlooked by the crypto mainstream. “Let’s do more, and since Eddie is here, he knows restaurant business and Facebook, perhaps you could all do something there. Or maybe you can do a multi-social account stream so that we can get the best traction.”

Conclusion: Community, Simplicity, and the Human Touch
Anndy Lian’s insights cut through the hype and technical jargon that often cloud the crypto conversation. His message is clear: technology alone is not enough. The future of blockchain depends on strong, engaged communities, accessible entry points, and a willingness to learn from both success and failure.

As he puts it, “We need more users, and it has to be an easy onboarding experience or something they really want to use.” By focusing on people—meeting them where they are, supporting their journeys, and building together—the crypto industry can move beyond its institutional chill and realize its promise as a truly inclusive, transformative force.

 

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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Building communities and navigating the future of Web3: Insights from Anndy Lian at Hong Kong Consensus 2025

Building communities and navigating the future of Web3: Insights from Anndy Lian at Hong Kong Consensus 2025

The Hong Kong Consensus 2025 spotlight stage was abuzz with energy as industry leaders gathered to discuss the future of Web3. The event featured a presentation by Thomas Kay, Vice President of WEEX Global, followed by a fireside chat with Anndy Lian, a best-selling author and prominent figure in the blockchain space.

While Kay’s presentation highlighted WEEX Global’s impressive growth trajectory and innovative features, it was the fireside chat with Lian that truly captivated the audience, offering deep insights into community building, the evolving role of exchanges, and the future of Web3 projects.

WEEX global: A brief overview

Kay opened the session with an overview of WEEX Global’s journey since its inception in 2018. The exchange has grown exponentially, boasting over 6 million users globally and a daily trading volume of US$5 billion.

With a focus on providing top-tier liquidity, a vast array of trading pairs, and innovative features like 400x leverage, WEEX has positioned itself as one of the fastest-growing exchanges in the world. Kay also emphasised the platform’s commitment to security, highlighting their 1,000 BTC protection fund and robust risk control systems.

While the presentation showcased WEEX’s achievements and future plans, including global expansion and compliance efforts, the real highlight of the session was the fireside chat with Lian.

Fireside chat: The art and science of community building

The fireside chat began with Kay asking Lian about the challenges of building communities in the Web3 space. Lian, known for his candid and insightful commentary, didn’t hold back.

“Building a community is a lot tougher than people think,” Lian remarked. He explained that the landscape has evolved significantly since 2018. Back then, users were less informed, and it was easier to attract them with simple incentives like airdrops.

Today, however, users are more sophisticated and demand real value. “You can’t just throw airdrops at people and expect them to stay. Communities need to be built on trust, value, and long-term vision,” he added.

Lian emphasised the importance of creating a loyal community that aligns with the project’s goals. “We don’t need communities that come for the incentives and leave the next day. We need communities that stay because they believe in what you’re building,” he said.

The role of exchanges in community building

Kay and Lian also discussed the role of exchanges in fostering strong communities. Kay noted that WEEX is committed to supporting projects that prioritise community engagement. “We want to back projects that are building loyal communities, not just chasing short-term gains,” he said.

Lian agreed, highlighting the need for unity within the Web3 ecosystem. “Exchanges, big projects, and smaller projects need to work together. Emerging markets like Russia, Kenya, and Brazil offer immense potential, and collaboration can unlock new opportunities,” he said.

He also stressed the importance of transparency, particularly when it comes to listing fees. “Normies are getting smarter. They’re asking tough questions about how exchanges operate, and transparency is key to building trust,” he noted.

The future of exchanges: Security and accessibility

When asked about the future role of exchanges in the Web3 space, Lian identified two key areas: security and accessibility. “Users want exchanges that offer an extra layer of security. They also want seamless on-ramp and off-ramp solutions to move their funds safely and efficiently,” he explained.

Kay echoed this sentiment, pointing to WEEX’s efforts to enhance security through their protection fund and compliance initiatives. He also acknowledged the challenges posed by “key opinion leaders” (KOLs) who often prioritise short-term traffic over long-term value. “Not every KOL is worth partnering with. We focus on working with genuine users and communities,” he said.

Memes as a gateway to Web3

The conversation then shifted to the role of meme coins in the Web3 ecosystem. Lian described meme coins as “door openers” that attract new users to the space.

However, he cautioned that their success depends on strong community backing and a clear roadmap. “A typical roadmap starts with a meme, followed by utility, and eventually evolves into something bigger, like merchandise or even global franchises,” he said.

Lian shared an example of how a meme-based project could transition into a sustainable business. “Imagine an ‘Anndy Café’ that becomes a global clubhouse for networking. The revenue from the café could be used to support the project, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem,” he suggested.

He also highlighted the importance of partnerships in ensuring the longevity of meme projects. “If you’re not in the top 300 or 500, survival is tough. Partnering with exchanges and other Web3 players can make a big difference,” he said.

The challenges of sustainability

Lian didn’t shy away from addressing the challenges faced by Web3 projects. He criticised projects with poor leadership and no clear plans for sustainability. “Most memes fail because they have no roadmap and no real leaders. They’re just boosting sentiment without delivering results,” he said.

He urged projects to focus on building real value for their communities. “Your community should work for their own bags. If they’re invested in the project’s success, it will last much longer,” he said. He also called on exchanges to prioritise quality over quantity when listing projects. “Instead of giving money to KOLs, give it to the projects that are building something meaningful,” he suggested.

Transparency and trust: The way forward

The fireside chat concluded with a discussion on the importance of transparency in the Web3 space. Lian praised WEEX for its efforts to be transparent about its operations and partnerships. “Transparency builds trust, and trust is the foundation of any successful community,” he said.

Kay agreed, emphasising that WEEX is committed to supporting projects that align with their values. “We’re not just looking for short-term gains. We want to build long-term partnerships with projects that share our vision,” he said.

Final thoughts

The fireside chat between Kay and Lian at Hong Kong Consensus 2025 offered a wealth of insights into the challenges and opportunities in the Web3 space. From the importance of community building to the evolving role of exchanges, the discussion highlighted the need for collaboration, transparency, and long-term vision.

As the Web3 ecosystem continues to grow, the lessons shared by Lian and Kay will undoubtedly serve as a valuable guide for projects, exchanges, and communities alike. Whether it’s through innovative features, strong partnerships, or a commitment to transparency, the future of Web3 will be shaped by those who prioritise value and trust above all else.

 

Source: https://e27.co/building-communities-and-navigating-the-future-of-web3-insights-from-anndy-lian-at-hong-kong-consensus-2025-20250326/

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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Building Trust: The Foundation of Web3’s Future

Building Trust: The Foundation of Web3’s Future

During my recent fireside chat at Hong Kong Consensus 2025, I emphasized a truth that many in our industry need to hear: Building communities is far more challenging than it appears.

In 2018, when blockchain technology was still relatively unknown to the mainstream, basic incentives like airdrops were enough to attract attention. Today’s landscape has fundamentally changed. You can’t just throw airdrops at people and expect them to stay. Communities need to be built on trust, value and a long-term vision.

What our industry needs isn’t communities that come for the incentives and leave the next day. We need communities that stay because they believe in what we’re building. This shift requires a complete rethinking of how we approach community engagement.

The role of exchanges in this ecosystem cannot be overstated. As gatekeepers to the crypto economy, exchanges must prioritize supporting projects that build loyal communities rather than chasing short-term gains. This means carefully vetting projects and ensuring they have sustainable roadmaps.

The future of Web3 demands unity. Exchanges, established projects and smaller initiatives must work together, especially in emerging markets like Russia, Kenya and Brazil that offer immense potential. Collaboration, not competition, will unlock new opportunities for growth.

Transparency is non-negotiable in this new era. Users are asking tough questions about how exchanges operate, particularly regarding listing fees and selection criteria. This scrutiny is healthy and necessary. Transparency builds trust, and trust is the foundation of any successful community.

Security and accessibility represent the two critical pillars for exchanges moving forward. Users rightfully demand platforms that offer robust protection for their assets and seamless solutions to move their funds safely and efficiently. Exchanges that fail to deliver on these fronts will find themselves increasingly irrelevant.

The phenomenon of meme coins presents a fascinating case study in community building. While often dismissed by traditionalists, these projects serve as valuable “door openers” that attract new users to the space. However, their success depends entirely on strong community backing and a clear evolution path.

A sustainable meme project typically begins with community engagement around a shared interest or joke, gradually introduces utility and eventually evolves into something more substantial, potentially including merchandise or broader business applications. Without this progression, most will fail.

Too many Web3 projects suffer from poor leadership and no clear plans for sustainability. They focus on boosting short-term sentiment without delivering meaningful results. This approach is unsustainable and damages the credibility of our entire industry.

Your community should work for their own collective success. When users are genuinely invested in a project’s future, they become advocates, not just participants. This organic growth creates resilience against market volatility and competitor challenges.

I call on exchanges to prioritize quality over quantity when listing projects. Instead of allocating resources to influencers who drive temporary traffic, invest in projects building something meaningful and sustainable. This shift in focus will benefit the entire ecosystem.

As Web3 continues to mature, those who prioritize value and trust will emerge as leaders. The future belongs not to those who can create the most hype, but to those who can build communities based on shared values and genuine utility.

The challenges ahead are significant, but so are the opportunities. By focusing on transparency, collaboration and long-term value creation, we can realize the transformative potential of Web3 technology and build a more inclusive digital economy.

 

Source: https://yellow.com/news/building-trust-the-foundation-of-web3s-future

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”.

j j j