Crypto traders choose to spend rather than HODL | Opinion

As a seasoned researcher with over a decade of experience in the dynamic world of cryptocurrencies, I’ve seen it all – from the humble beginnings of Bitcoin to the meme coin frenzy that has taken the crypto community by storm. The evolution of this space is nothing short of remarkable, and I find myself in awe of its rapid pace and transformative potential.


The long-standing strategy among Bitcoin (BTC) owners has been to ‘hold onto it tightly’, rather than spending their accumulated wealth. This approach, reminiscent of an unwavering faith, has been embraced with fervor. However, it’s important to note that the landscape of cryptocurrencies today is significantly different from what it was a few years back, even though Bitcoin, the leading crypto, still dominates the news.

Dogecoin (DOGE), initially introduced in 2013, is experiencing a surge of popularity within the realm of meme-based cryptocurrencies. Regrettably, this sector has been susceptible to fraudulent activities like scams and manipulative strategies such as pump-and-dump schemes. However, the expansion and growing relevance of meme coins is an uncontestable reality.

Over time, both the structure and financial systems of cryptocurrency have undergone significant transformations. Previously, individuals who opted to sell their crypto holdings faced limited choices, often relying on questionable intermediaries, excessive fees, and slow transaction times. However, today’s crypto holders benefit from numerous exit options when they wish to convert their digital assets into traditional currencies. These options are made possible by partnerships between web3 payment specialists and TradFi giants like Mastercard. Off-ramping from cryptocurrency to fiat money is now a straightforward, secure process, offering low fees and fast, efficient transactions.

Meme coin frenzy

During the ongoing bull market phase, where Bitcoin surpassed its previous record high at around $97,000, the market value of meme coins dramatically increased from $56 billion to $118 billion. This growth occurred after President Trump’s re-election and a subsequent surge in the cryptocurrency market.

Initially conceived as a light-hearted spinoff inspired by the ‘Doge’ internet meme featuring a Shiba Inu dog, DOGE stands out as the most prominent and easily identifiable meme-based cryptocurrency. Similar coins also bear animal names, such as Moo Deng (MOODENG), which is a playful reference to a young pygmy hippopotamus residing in a Thai zoo.

As an analyst, I’ve been closely observing the significant rise of Dogecoin (DOGE), following Elon Musk’s appointment as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency under President-elect Donald Trump. This appointment seems to have ignited a spark, propelling DOGE to a staggering market capitalization of $58 billion.

Cryptocurrency enthusiasts are flocking towards new meme coins, typically investing just a few dollars with the expectation that the token could amass a devoted fanbase and skyrocket in worth. The non-custodial wallet Phantom, offering various betting options for meme coins, has climbed to second place in the utility section of the U.S. Apple App Store rankings. Individuals who successfully wager on meme coins often exchange these tokens into more established cryptocurrencies like Solana to secure their profits and facilitate further conversion into traditional currencies (fiat).

End of creaky payment rails 

The cryptocurrency space has evolved to a point where it is almost unrecognizable from where it was a decade ago. Notably, Mastercard and Visa have now entered the web3 ecosystem. Mercuryo’s Mastercard crypto debit card, Spend, bridges the gap between non-custodial crypto wallets and traditional payment methods. Spend is a plug-and-play solution that can be quickly integrated into a non-custodial wallet and rolled out to users who can add it to their Apple Pay or Google Play wallet. Spend is available to use online and in-store across Mastercard’s 100 million-plus network of merchants, providing users with a seamless, low-cost means of off-ramping their crypto holdings. Holders of the Spend card benefit from a level of consumer protection on a par with a traditional debit or credit card. 

The world of cryptocurrency is consistently developing, with meme coins playing an increasingly important role. This growth can be attributed in part to the strong presence of Generation Z on social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and others. These social networks serve as a platform for newly launched meme coins to gain popularity through viral trends and amass a devoted fanbase reminiscent of cult followings.

As a researcher, I’m observing an exciting trend unfolding: the introduction of innovative payment solutions that cater specifically to cryptocurrency traders, offering them an effortless and cost-effective way to spend their trading earnings. Though the ‘HODL’ ideology remains influential among Bitcoin enthusiasts, it seems that newcomers to the web3 realm lean more towards a ‘seize-the-day’ mindset.

Greg Waisman

Greg Waisman, being the co-founder and chief operating officer, plays a crucial role at Mercuryo, the crypto wallet service he helps run. For more than a decade, he’s been transforming ideas into tangible, user-friendly products that cater to real audiences. With a rich background in managing diverse teams across various functions, Greg brings valuable expertise to his roles.

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2024-12-02 15:06