Crypto donations top $1B in 2024, gain traction after Myanmar, Thailand quake

Crypto donations top $1B in 2024, gain traction after Myanmar, Thailand quake

Binance co-founder Changpeng “CZ” Zhao donated over half a million dollars worth of crypto to the earthquake disaster relief effort in Thailand and Myanmar, in another testament to the growing utility of blockchain-based emergency charity efforts.

Zhao donated 1,000 BNB tokens worth almost $600,000 to the disaster relief funds for the region on March 3, blockchain data shows.

“Sent 1000 BNB for the donation for Myanmar and Thailand,” wrote Zhao in an April 3 X post.

The crypto donation comes after Thailand and Myanmar were hit by a 7.7 magnitude earthquake on March 28, causing severe damage to buildings and widespread flooding.

At least 2,719 people have been confirmed dead in Myanmar and 18 in Thailand, with 76 people still unaccounted for, according to the latest figures shared by Reuters.

The $600,000 donation comes nearly a week after Zhao pledged to donate 500 BNB for the relief efforts, an initial commitment that he doubled. Cryptocurrency-based donations have emerged as a significant lifeline for the region, due to banking restrictions caused by damaged infrastructure.

Crypto donations exceeded $1 billion in 2024, spurred by increasing digital asset valuations and growing crypto regulatory clarity. About 16% of the donations went toward education, while 14% went toward medicine and health-related efforts.

The Giving Block has launched a crypto-based emergency relief effort for Myanmar and Thailand to raise $500,000 for the devastated region.

The organization expects crypto donations to reach $2.5 billion in 2025 on growing crypto wealth generation and increasing adoption due to a more favorable political landscape.

Crypto donations gain traction for emergency relief efforts

Zhao’s donation is a testament to the growing role of cryptocurrency in humanitarian aid, according to Anndy Lian, author and intergovernmental blockchain expert.

“Crypto donations, compared to traditional fiat contributions, offer unique advantages, especially in emergencies,” Lian told Cointelegraph, adding:

“Speed is a key factor—transactions on blockchain networks can settle in minutes, bypassing the delays of banks or intermediaries, which is critical when time saves lives.”

“In disaster-stricken areas like Myanmar or Thailand, where infrastructure might be compromised, crypto can reach recipients directly via digital wallets, no SWIFT codes or wire transfers required,” Lian explained.

Lian also donated 44 BNB tokens to the relief efforts in Myanmar and Thailand, a move that was publicly praised by Zhao.

Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has been known for his crypto donations. In October, Buterin donated over $180,000 in Ether to the biotech charity Kanro.

 

Source: https://cointelegraph.com/news/cz-donates-1000-bnb-thailand-myanmar-earthquake-relief

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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Fireside Chat at DogeCon Thailand 2024- Jordan Jefferson & Anndy Lian

Fireside Chat at DogeCon Thailand 2024- Jordan Jefferson & Anndy Lian

In a lively fireside chat at DogeCon Thailand, two Dogecoin advocates, Jordan Jefferson and Anndy Lian, shared their insights and experiences with Dogecoin. This cryptocurrency has captured the hearts of many with its unique blend of humor and community spirit. The conversation delved into their personal journeys, the evolution of Dogecoin, and the exciting future ahead for this beloved digital currency.

A Journey into the World of Cryptocurrency

Anndy Lian, a best-selling author and fund manager, opened the discussion by introducing himself and his work in the cryptocurrency space. He mentioned his passion for the Meme Space and his role with Memecore. He highlighted his upcoming book on Web4, reflecting his deep engagement with the evolving digital landscape.

Jordan Jefferson, co-founder and CEO of MyDoge, the leading Dogecoin wallet, shared his early experiences as a software engineer and entrepreneur. Despite his early involvement with Bitcoin, Jordan admitted that he was not initially drawn to Dogecoin. It wasn’t until a few years ago that he became fully committed to Dogecoin, captivated by its vibrant community and the potential for fun and innovation within the ecosystem.

The Allure of Dogecoin: Community and Culture

The conversation highlighted Dogecoin’s unique aspects that set it apart from other cryptocurrencies. Jordan emphasized the importance of community and culture in the Dogecoin ecosystem. Unlike many other digital currencies, Dogecoin was created as a joke without the intention of making money. This origin story has fostered a community that values fun and camaraderie over financial gain.

Jordan shared his experiences with the Dogecoin community, noting his positive and supportive interactions while developing the MyDoge wallet. The community’s willingness to help and enthusiasm for Dogecoin’s potential were key factors in his decision to focus on Dogecoin full-time.

Innovations and Future Developments

As the discussion turned to the future of Dogecoin, Jordan revealed exciting developments on the horizon. MyDoge is set to launch a major update, MyDoge V3, which aims to simplify the user experience and make it more accessible to newcomers. The update will focus on eliminating the need for complex seed phrases and introducing foolproof social sign-in options with enhanced security features.

Jordan also introduced DogeOS, an app layer for Dogecoin designed to bring a world of fun and innovative applications to the Dogecoin ecosystem. The goal is to create a unique and engaging experience for users, tapping into the playful spirit that defines Dogecoin.

Building on Dogecoin: Opportunities and Challenges

Both discussed the opportunities for developers to build on Dogecoin, emphasizing the potential to tap into its passionate community. While other blockchain ecosystems offer grants to attract developers, Jordan believes the real value lies in engaging with the Dogecoin community. The support and enthusiasm of Dogecoin users can provide a powerful foundation for new projects.

However, Dogecoin’s decentralized nature also presents challenges. Unlike other cryptocurrencies with centralized foundations, Dogecoin relies on its community to drive growth and innovation. This grassroots approach is both a strength and a challenge, requiring creative solutions to foster development without the financial backing of a centralized entity.

The Role of Dogecoin in the Broader Crypto Landscape

The chat concluded with a discussion on Dogecoin’s role in the broader cryptocurrency landscape. Anndy and Jordan agreed that Dogecoin’s focus on fun and community sets it apart from other digital currencies. While many cryptocurrencies are driven by speculation and financial gain, Dogecoin offers a refreshing alternative that prioritizes user experience and community engagement.

Jordan expressed optimism about the future of Dogecoin, predicting that it will continue to grow and evolve as more people discover its unique appeal. He encouraged newcomers to get involved with the Dogecoin community, highlighting the welcoming and inclusive nature of its members.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Dogecoin

The fireside chat at DogeCon Thailand provided valuable insights into the world of Dogecoin and its potential for growth and innovation. With a strong focus on community and culture, Dogecoin continues to capture the imagination of users around the world. As new developments like MyDoge V3 and DogeOS come to fruition, the future looks bright for this beloved cryptocurrency. Whether you’re a seasoned crypto enthusiast or a newcomer, Dogecoin offers a unique and engaging experience that will surely delight and inspire.

 

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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Memecoin Trends: Insights from the Memewonder Panel Discussion

Memecoin Trends: Insights from the Memewonder Panel Discussion

The Memewonder event, co-hosted by Binance Thailand and MemeCore, brought together industry leaders to discuss the evolving landscape of memecoins. This panel, part of the Thailand Blockchain Week 2024, featured insights from key figures in the blockchain and cryptocurrency space. The discussion, moderated by Anndy Lian, a best-selling author and Managing Director of LIFT Ecofund by MemeCore, delved into the trends, challenges, and future of memecoins, particularly focusing on Community Takeover (CTO) projects.

Key Themes and Insights

The Rise of Community Takeover (CTO) Projects

Anndy Lian started off by saying that CTO projects are gaining popularity due to their community-driven nature. Unlike traditional projects led by developers, CTOs empower communities to take charge, fostering a sense of ownership and engagement. This model aligns with the decentralized ethos of blockchain, where communities can drive projects forward without relying on centralized leadership.

Jordan Jefferson, CEO of MyDoge, provided insights from the Dogecoin community, the original CTO project. He highlighted the narrative appeal of CTOs, where communities take over projects from anonymous developers. Jefferson pointed out that while CTOs offer a compelling narrative, they face challenges such as funding and coordination. He emphasized the need for sustainable models and investable opportunities within the Dogecoin ecosystem, aiming to attract more developers and projects to build on Dogecoin.

Challenges and Risks of CTO Projects

Despite their appeal, CTO projects face significant challenges. Anndy Lian highlighted issues such as fragmented communities, lack of funding, and the need for strong leadership. Without adequate resources and coordination, CTO projects risk failing, leading to the demise of the project. The panelists stressed the importance of sustainable models and the need for communities to secure funding and liquidity to thrive.

Louis Bellet, CEO & Fonder, Yellow, replied to the comment by highlighting the role of Yellow in decentralizing finance. He emphasized the importance of community-driven projects, noting that developers often lack the skills to build strong communities. Bellet argued that memecoins should naturally transition to community leadership, where new leaders emerge from within the community to drive the project forward. He also mentioned Yellow’s market-making division, which has been approached by several CTO projects for token listings, underscoring the growing interest in community-led initiatives.

The Role of Memecoins in the Broader Blockchain Ecosystem

Memecoins, often seen as speculative assets, have the potential to drive innovation and engagement in the blockchain space. The panelists discussed the entertainment value of memecoins, likening them to cultural phenomena that capture public imagination. They also noted the potential for memecoins to integrate with real-world applications, such as mobile apps and merchandise, to enhance their utility and appeal.

Eddie Li, Co-founder, AEON, shared his perspective as a payment protocol provider, focusing on the consumer attraction of memecoins. He noted that memecoins, driven by community and financial incentives, are gaining traction where traditional projects struggle. Li emphasized the importance of facilitating payments across different chains to support memecoin adoption. He also expressed concerns about the sustainability of memecoins, cautioning against projects with weak narratives or visions.

Future Trends and Innovations

Looking ahead, the panelists identified several trends that could shape the future of memecoins. They anticipated more innovation in fair launches and community involvement, with projects exploring new ways to engage and reward their communities. The panelists also highlighted the potential for memecoins to collaborate with traditional businesses, leveraging their community-driven nature to create new opportunities and partnerships.

Allan Fang, Partner, Blockchain for Good Alliance and Head of Moledao added that education is important. He stressed the importance of community support and governance in building strong projects. Fang noted that memecoins offer a unique way to engage communities, likening them to totems that foster loyalty and engagement. He also highlighted the potential for memecoins to link with real-world brands, suggesting that they could serve as effective community management tools.

Conclusion

The Memewonder panel discussion provided valuable insights into the evolving landscape of memecoins. As the blockchain industry continues to grow, memecoins are poised to play a significant role in driving innovation and community engagement. However, their success will depend on the ability of communities to navigate the challenges of funding, leadership, and sustainability. By fostering strong communities and exploring new applications, memecoins can continue to thrive and contribute to the broader blockchain ecosystem.

 

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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