Vitalik Buterin Donates $290K to Adopt Moo Deng
Sentiment Status: Positive
Ethereum co-founder, Vitalik Buterin, has adopted Moo Deng, the internet’s favorite pygmy hippopotamus from Thailand’s Khao Kheow Open Zoo, contributing a 10 million baht ($290,000) donation to the zoo’s Wildlife Sponsorship Program.
Moo Deng, known for her playful antics and viral moonwalk, has captured the attention of millions worldwide, and now she’s the unlikely star of the crypto community. Buterin’s adoption adds a layer of philanthropy to his already impressive track record and exemplifies crypto’s potential for real-world impact.
Crypto and Conservation
Buterin’s donation will directly fund improvements to Moo Deng’s enclosure and enhance welfare initiatives across the zoo. In a letter to the zoo, Buterin expressed his admiration for Moo Deng, framing his donation as a thank-you gift to Thailand after Ethereum’s Devcon SEA conference was hosted there.
“What better way to show appreciation than giving back to someone dear to the hearts of Thai people?” Buterin remarked.
His involvement reflects a growing trend of crypto-driven philanthropy, where digital wealth is redirected toward real-world causes.
Memecoins Impact
Following Buterin’s adoption announcement, the MOODENG token, a memecoin inspired by the beloved hippo, soared 70% in price with trading volume spiking by 300%. Although the zoo hasn’t officially endorsed the token, Moo Deng’s fame has undoubtedly boosted its value and visibility.
The surge reflects a curious phenomenon where memecoins are serving as symbols of community engagement and charitable initiatives. Buterin’s involvement lends credibility to such projects and reinforces the potential for crypto assets to extend their impact beyond speculative trading.
Buterin’s philanthropic record speaks volumes. From $1 billion in Shiba Inu tokens for COVID-19 relief to millions in aid for Ukraine and animal welfare, he consistently leverages his crypto fortune to support global causes.
His sponsorship of Moo Deng adds a lighter, more personal touch to his giving portfolio, showcasing the versatility of crypto donations.
Ex-crypto miner and crypto enthusiast since 2019.