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Crypto Meme Magic: The Intersection of Meme IP and Investment Opportunities

Crypto Meme Magic: The Intersection of Meme IP and Investment Opportunities

The MemeX Festival, held on February 18, 2025, during Consensus HK 2025, brought together blockchain enthusiasts, investors, and meme lovers to explore the fascinating intersection of meme intellectual property (IP) and investment opportunities. Hosted by MemeCore, a leading EVM-based Layer 1 blockchain, the event aimed to bridge Web2 and Web3 projects, enhance brand visibility, and solidify MemeCore’s position as a hub for meme-related initiatives. With over 2,000 registrations, the festival was a landmark event for the blockchain and meme communities.

One of the highlights of the festival was the panel discussion titled “Crypto Meme Magic: The Intersection of Meme IP and Investment Opportunities.” Moderated by Anndy Lian, Managing Director of MemeCore and a best-selling author, the panel featured industry leaders who shared their insights on the role of memes in the blockchain ecosystem. The panelists included Thomas Kay (Head of International Business, WEEX Global), Christian Oertel (Global Expansion Lead, Conflux Network), Larry Lundy (Chief Business Officer, Hashpower X), and Tasso Lago (Founder, Financial Move).

The Power of Memes in Crypto

Anndy Lian opened the discussion by emphasizing the unique role memes play in the crypto space. “I’m quite a meme advocate,” he said. “Not because I love the graphics, but because I love the community behind it.” This sentiment set the tone for the panel, highlighting how memes are more than just humorous images—they are powerful abilities for community building and engagement.

Thomas Kay, representing WEEX Global, echoed this view, stating, “Meme is the main retention ability in the crypto space right now. It’s one of the easiest ways for new users from Web2 to enter Web3.” He pointed out that memes are not just about entertainment; they are a gateway for onboarding new users into the blockchain ecosystem. “It’s inevitable that memes will continue to be one of the biggest drivers in the future,” he added.

Christian Oertel of Conflux Network admitted that he was initially skeptical about memes. “A couple of years back, I didn’t believe in memes,” he said. “We were working on Layer 1 blockchain scalability, changing the world, and then someone launched a meme with no fundamentals.” However, his perspective shifted as he realized the potential of memes to attract retail users and foster community engagement. “Memes are the best entry point into the Web3 world,” he concluded.

Memes as Cultural and Economic Drivers

Larry Lundy, Chief Business Officer at Hashpower X, took a broader view, describing memes as cultural integrators and economic enablers. “Memes are the highway,” he said. “They lower the barrier of entry by providing a safe and fun environment.” He highlighted the historical significance of meme tokens like Dogecoin and Shiba Inu, which have not only driven liquidity in the crypto market but also created a cultural phenomenon. “Without meme tokens, we wouldn’t have the large influx of liquidity in Web3 and DeFi,” he explained.

Lundy also emphasized the emotional connection that memes create. “The driving motivation for investment in memes is emotional,” he said. “People invest because they like it, and that emotional attachment creates a strong community.” He likened memes to collectible items like baseball cards and comic books, where value is determined by community perception.

Tasso Lago, a prominent crypto influencer and angel investor from Brazil, shared a similar perspective. “At first, I didn’t like memes because there was no utility,” he admitted. “But now I see that memes can build communities and evolve into businesses.” He cited Shiba Inu as an example of a meme token that has successfully built an ecosystem and engaged with new projects and features. “Memes drive users,” he said. “They are the pillar of growth in crypto.”

The Role of IP in Meme Coins

The discussion also touched on the potential of meme IP to create lasting value. Anndy Lian noted that meme IP is becoming increasingly attractive as a business model. “When you talk about IP, it’s very generic right now,” he said. “But if you look at the great grandfather of meme coins, it would be Dogecoin.” He suggested that meme IP could be a powerful ability for branding and community building.

Christian Oertel highlighted the challenges and opportunities of integrating meme IP into blockchain networks. “From Conflux’s perspective, we’re working with IPs like McDonald’s in China, but the restriction is that you can only do NFTs,” he explained. Despite these limitations, he expressed optimism about the future of meme IP, citing examples like Pudgy Penguins and Doodles, which have successfully created IP through NFTs and token drops.

Thomas Kay added that meme IP is a significant driver of user engagement. “The beauty of IP is that it’s so recognizable,” he said. “It’s easy for people to look at one of your projects and immediately know it’s you.” He shared data from WEEX Global, showing that Trump Coin, a meme token, had a massive impact on user activity. “On the day Trump Coin launched, user activity tripled, and trading volume increased tenfold,” he revealed.

Investment Strategies in Meme Coins

When it comes to investing in meme coins, the panelists shared diverse strategies. Tasso Lago emphasized the importance of community and ecosystem development. “When I look at a meme to invest in, I first look at the charts,” he said. “Then I try to understand if the meme is building an ecosystem.” He praised Shiba Inu for its efforts to engage with new projects and features, calling it a good example of a meme token with long-term potential.

Larry Lundy highlighted the versatility of meme tokens like Dogecoin, which is built on Litecoin’s infrastructure and operates as a minable commodity. “Doge is one of the original proof-of-work minables,” he said. “It provides a victimless environment for liquidity entry and exit.” He also pointed out that the emotional appeal of memes makes them a unique investment opportunity. “Memes are culture, and memes are business,” he concluded.

The Future of Memes in Web3

As the panel discussion drew to a close, the speakers reflected on the future of memes in the Web3 space. Christian Oertel described memes as a social phenomenon that brings people together. “You get the full cycle of emotions and share it with thousands of people you don’t know,” he said. “There’s something mystical about it.”

Thomas Kay emphasized the role of memes as community drivers. “In the whole crypto space right now, the most activity happens in the meme community,” he said. “It’s one of the main drivers for growth and engagement.”

Anndy Lian concluded the session by reiterating the importance of memes in the blockchain ecosystem. “Meme is one of the main pillars in the Web3 space,” he said. “It’s a good door opener and the biggest community driver.”

Final Thoughts

The Crypto Meme Magic panel at the MemeX Festival showcased the transformative power of memes in the blockchain ecosystem. From onboarding new users to driving liquidity and fostering community engagement, memes have become a cornerstone of the Web3 space. As the panelists highlighted, the future of memes lies in their ability to evolve into ecosystems, create lasting IP, and bridge the gap between Web2 and Web3. With their unique blend of humor, culture, and investment potential, memes are poised to remain a driving force in the crypto world.

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”.

www.anndy.com
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How to Onboard More People to Web3: Insights from MemeX Festival Panel

How to Onboard More People to Web3: Insights from MemeX Festival Panel

The MemeX Festival, hosted by Memecore, MemeX, and 852Web3, and co-hosted by Pudgy Penguins, Ton, and Hashkey Exchange, brought together some of the brightest minds in Web3 to discuss a pressing question: How can we onboard more people to Web3? The panel, moderated by Chin, Spaces Host from Unfungible, featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including Anndy Lian, Cheryl Law, Master Chef, and Denton. Together, they shared their insights, strategies, and experiences in making Web3 more accessible to the masses.

This article captures the key takeaways from the panel discussion, highlighting the innovative approaches and actionable ideas shared by the speakers.

The Challenge of Onboarding to Web3

Moderator Chin set the tone for the discussion by emphasizing the importance of onboarding in Web3. “Whether you’re a builder, content creator, or just curious, the question remains: how do we get more people into Web3?” he asked. The panelists agreed that while Web3 offers immense potential, the journey to onboard users is fraught with challenges, including technical complexity, lack of awareness, and skepticism.

1. Making Web3 Fun and Accessible

Master Chef, representing WONTON and Hungry Degens, shared a unique approach to onboarding users by gamifying the experience. He explained how their NFT collection starts in a Web2 environment, allowing users to collect items like Pokémon cards before transitioning to on-chain assets. “We encourage users to collect in a Web2 environment first, like opening a pack of cards. Once they’re engaged, we introduce them to the on-chain experience,” he said. This gradual approach has proven successful, with over 4.5 million users engaging with their mini-app.

Chin praised this strategy, noting, “It’s about creating a familiar and enjoyable experience. People love to collect things, and by making it fun, you’re lowering the barrier to entry.”

2. Show, Don’t Tell

Denton, founder of Moon Ring, emphasized the importance of demonstrating the value of Web3 rather than overwhelming users with technical jargon. “Show people what Web3 can do. Let them experience it,” he said. Denton highlighted the success of Moon Ring, a wearable device that allows users to earn tokens by contributing their data. “People don’t even realize they’re interacting with the blockchain. They just wear the ring, track their biometrics, and earn rewards. It’s seamless and user-friendly.”

This “show, don’t tell” philosophy resonated with the audience, as it shifts the focus from explaining blockchain technology to showcasing its tangible benefits. Denton added, “No more chains, no more gas fees. Just a simple, enjoyable experience.”

3. Leveraging Meme Culture

Anndy Lian, Managing Director of LIFT Ecofund and a bestselling author, brought a fresh perspective to the discussion by advocating for the use of memes as an entry point to Web3. “If you want to grow big, you have to be as degen and as silly as you can,” he said, drawing laughter from the audience. Anndy explained that meme coins and meme culture are powerful abilities for engaging users. “Memes are fun, relatable, and easy to understand. They create a sense of community and excitement.”

He also stressed the importance of showing users how they can benefit financially. “If you tell people how they can make money, they will come. Whether it’s Web1, Web2, or Web3, the principle remains the same,” he said. Anndy’s candid advice to projects was to focus on creating fun and engaging experiences that resonate with users.

4. Building Emotional Connections

Cheryl Law, Head of Asia for Pudgy Penguins, highlighted the role of emotional connections in onboarding users. “Pudgy Penguins is not just about selling dreams and visions. We’re selling physical toys that people can touch and feel,” she said. Cheryl explained that these toys create an emotional attachment, making it easier for users to engage with the brand and explore Web3.

She shared a personal anecdote about onboarding her mother, who initially dismissed Web3 as complex and intimidating. “When she saw the Pudgy Penguin toys, she was intrigued. It’s cute, it’s tangible, and it’s something she could relate to,” Cheryl said. This approach has helped Pudgy Penguins reach a broader audience, including those who might not typically engage with Web3.

Cheryl also emphasized the importance of distribution and visibility. “We’re everywhere—TikTok, Facebook, YouTube. We’re playing the long-term game, building a community, and creating mindshare,” she said. By combining physical products with a strong online presence, Pudgy Penguins has successfully bridged the gap between Web2 and Web3.

5. Simplifying the Onboarding Process

One recurring theme throughout the discussion was the need to simplify the onboarding process. Cheryl shared how Pudgy Penguins uses QR codes to make it easy for users to join their ecosystem. “You scan the QR code, enter your Gmail, and you’re in the Pudgy world. It’s that simple,” she said. This streamlined approach removes the technical barriers that often deter new users.

Denton echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of removing friction. “No one wants to deal with gas fees or complicated wallets. The experience should be as smooth as possible,” he said.

6. The Role of Community and IP

The panelists agreed that community and intellectual property (IP) play a crucial role in onboarding users. Anndy pointed out that strong IP can create a sense of identity and belonging. “Pudgy Penguins is a great example. They’ve built a brand that people want to be a part of,” he said.

Cheryl added that community building is at the heart of Pudgy Penguins’ strategy. “We’re not just selling toys or NFTs. We’re creating a community where people feel connected and valued,” she said. This sense of community fosters loyalty and encourages users to explore Web3 further.

7. The Power of Memes and Mass Adoption

Anndy and Cheryl both highlighted the potential of memes to drive mass adoption. “Memes are universal. They transcend language and culture,” Cheryl said. Anndy added, “Memes are the perfect entry point. They’re fun, they’re relatable, and they make Web3 less intimidating.”

The panelists also discussed the role of meme coins in onboarding users. While acknowledging the risks, Anndy argued that meme coins can be a powerful ability for engagement. “It’s a lot easier to get someone to buy a $1 meme coin than to explain the intricacies of blockchain technology,” he said.

Conclusion: A Multi-Faceted Approach

The panel discussion at MemeXFestival provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of onboarding users to Web3. From gamification and emotional connections to meme culture and community building, the speakers shared a range of strategies to make Web3 more accessible and appealing.

As Chin aptly summarized, “It’s about creating experiences that resonate with people. Whether it’s through toys, memes, or seamless technology, the goal is to make Web3 fun, engaging, and easy to use.”

The journey to onboard the masses to Web3 is just beginning, but with innovative approaches like these, the future looks promising. As the panelists demonstrated, the key lies in meeting users where they are, making the experience enjoyable, and showing them the value of Web3.

 

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”.

www.anndy.com
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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”.

www.anndy.com
j j j