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If I should describe Token2049 in a word, it would be “extravagance.” Walking along the conference halls of Marina Bay Sands, one is bombarded by several DJs spinning at the same time, audaciously-dressed women from traditional marketing agencies shoving flyers at attendees and the occasional absurdly-costumed mascot you can’t help but stare at. Token2049 Singapore is arguably the crypto industry’s largest business-driven event, and its ostentatious presentation leaves no room for moderation. Step into the exhibition areas and you’re greeted by a plethora of circus-like entertainment options between booths: retro arcade gaming machines, punching bags, a Spanish-style bullfighting ring and even an 18-foot rock climbing wall. You’d be forgiven for almost forgetting you were here for work. Stepping out for a breather? There’s even a Bitvavo-sponsored massage room, but expect at least a 30-minute wait (I, sadly, had to pass). One major crypto company told me that the glitz and glamor was all a bit too “excessive,” and it’s hard to disagree. Based on the official Token2049 site, the event was being attended by at least 7000 companies and 20,000 attendees — numbers that exceed the daily active users of even L1/L2 chains. With nearly 800 side events — and that’s not counting the probably hundreds more private events — it’s a stark contrast to the more sober and low-key developer-focused crypto events of the west. Spotted at the ARC Community side event: internet meme sensation “Hide the Pain Harold” with Mandopop star JJ Lin; Photo credit: ARC Community I recall a prominent running gag from previous Token2049s that pointed out how the conference was overrun by venture and hedge funds, while suffering from a dearth of builders. The same could definitely not be said for the vibe this year. DeFi-centric builders like Aave, Uniswap, Matcha, Sky (previously Maker), EigenLayer,…

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Filed under: News - @ September 23, 2024 2:22 pm