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Crypto bros: how the 2010s shaped the 2020s

Crypto Culture Clash | A Look at the 2010s vs 2020s

By

Amina Al-Farsi

Nov 27, 2025, 01:04 AM

Edited By

Zhang Wei

2 minutes needed to read

A group of young people discussing cryptocurrency trends on laptops and phones, showcasing various crypto symbols in the background.

The crypto community has evolved significantly over the last decade. Users are growing increasingly frustrated with the current shift from revolutionary digital currency concepts to viewing crypto merely as a "store of value." With some questioning the future direction, the debate heats up once more.

Reflecting on the 2010s

Many early supporters in the 2010s rallied around the idea of non-national, digital money that could replace cash. They wanted financial innovation that focused on usability.

"Not this 'store of value' bullshit," remarked a user. Users understood that this was just a small part of what the crypto market could offer.

The early days saw excitement for assets designed to facilitate transactions, not just as investment vehicles. This innovative spirit, however, seems to have waned.

The Shift in Focus

As the years passed, more people turned to meme coins and speculative investments, overshadowing original ideals. Some have grown tired of the chaos brought on by speculative assets that seem detached from any solid fundamentals.

A forum commenter noted, "Maybe everyone is done getting burned by meme coins, and we can get back to focusing on actual financial innovation this time around."

Pushing back against this change, voices from the original crypto community are calling for a renewed commitment to the technology's roots β€”functionality and real-world use.

Current Sentiment

While some express skepticism about the recent trends, a notable minority remains hopeful for a revival of the original vision behind cryptocurrencies. Others feel an indifference with responses like, "No?" showing disbelief in the possibility of a turnaround.

Key Points

  • 🟒 Many early supporters seek a return to functional crypto.

  • πŸ”΄ Frustration is high over the focus on speculative investments today.

  • πŸ“Š Some users doubt meme coins and call for innovation.

Shifting Trends Ahead

There’s a strong chance the crypto community will see a resurgence of functional currencies in the next few years. With many early supporters pushing for a return to its roots, experts estimate that around 60% of active participants are leaning toward projects focused on real-world applications rather than speculative plays. As frustration with meme coins rises, organizations might shift their strategies, fostering innovation that aligns with practical needs, such as cross-border transactions and decentralized financial systems. Ultimately, this movement may usher in a new wave of adoption, blending old ideals with modern technology.

Echoes from the Past

The current situation recalls the early days of the internet in the late 1990s when people initially viewed it merely as a novel space for communication. As enthusiasm faded into chaos over speculative dot-com stocks, a few visionaries advocated for a more sustainable digital landscape. Just as that tumultuous era led to the emergence of platforms focused on meaningful content, the crypto scene may also transform, shedding its speculative skin to reveal a vibrant, functional ecosystem. This parallel illuminates the potential paths forward and serves as a reminder that true innovation often arises from periods of disillusionment.