Vitalik Buterin has suggested two new airdrop options. He believes that the concept of free distribution of tokens in the airdrop format, which has become a trend in 2024 in the crypto market, needs to be revised. What could change and will it really change? Why would Ethereum, which cannot offer an airdrop, put forward these initiatives?
Vitalik Buterin's proposals could significantly reshape the approach to crypto industry airdrops. These changes could have a number of positive consequences.
Firstly, a discount system instead of a completely free distribution can attract more interested and dedicated users. People willing to pay for tokens, albeit at a discount, are likely to have a greater incentive to use the project and participate in its development. This can create a more sustainable and active community around the project.
Secondly, the use of blockchain-based identification mechanisms can significantly reduce the number of bots and fake accounts involved in airdrops. This will make the distribution of tokens fairer and more efficient, directing them into the hands of real users, rather than speculators with multiple fake accounts.
However, Buterin's proposals might also have some negative consequences.
First, the transition from free distributions to discounts may reduce the overall interest in airdrops. Many users are attracted by the opportunity to get tokens absolutely free. Even with a discount, having to pay may turn off part of the audience.
Second, more complex user identification mechanisms may create additional barriers to participation. Not everyone is willing to go through multi-stage verification or provide a lot of personal data. This may limit the availability of airdrops to a wider audience.
As for Ethereum's motivation in promoting such initiatives, even though the project itself cannot offer an airdrop, I see a strategic move here. Ethereum is a platform on which many other projects are built. Improving the ecosystem and token distribution practices could result in healthier and more sustainable development of Ethereum-based projects. This, in turn, could strengthen Ethereum’s position as a leading platform for developing decentralized apps.
In addition, Buterin’s proposals could spur innovation in online identity and community management, which could have broad applications beyond the cryptosphere. This could lead to the development of new protocols and tools on top of Ethereum, expanding its functionality and appeal to developers and users alike.
Overall, these initiatives underscore the aspiration for a more mature and sustainable approach to crypto project development, which could be beneficial to the entire industry in the long term.