Updated 28 December
Moo Deng Token Surges 70% Following Vitalik Buterin’s Adoption Announcement
Crypto and animal welfare are increasingly connected, utilizing blockchain to support animal rights initiatives globally.
At Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Thailand, Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin adopted Moo Deng, a juvenile pygmy hippopotamus. He made a $10 million Thai Baht ($290,000) donation to the zoo's conservation efforts as part of this gesture.
The adoption announcement led to a 70% increase in MOODENG token values, indicating rising interest in meme coins. Trading volume surged by 380%, attracting new investors to this digital asset.
MOODENG Crypto Price Surge
The price of MOODENG increased from approximately $0.0001228 to $0.0002417 within hours, highlighting market sentiment fluctuations. It is currently trading at about $0.0001958, a notable rise from previous levels.
Buterin committed to adopting Moo Deng and her family for two years through the zoo's Wildlife Sponsorship Program. This initiative showcases his commitment to animal welfare and positions him as a prominent figure supporting humanitarian programs in crypto.
Thank you Vitalik Buterin @VitalikButerin for joining the Wildlife Sponsorship Program and adopting Moo Deng with a generous gift of 10,000,000 THB for her family! We look forward to working with you over the next 2 years for the benefit of the Khao Kheow Open Zoo community & all… pic.twitter.com/Ykrr53Y2tZ
— สวนสัตว์เปิดเขาเขียว Khao Kheow Open Zoo (@KhaokheowZoo) December 26, 2024
Charitable Contributions
Buterin's philanthropic history includes substantial donations to various causes, including COVID-19 relief efforts within the Ethereum network.
His recent donation to Moo Deng exemplifies how cryptocurrency can be used for social good. Buterin expressed satisfaction in becoming Moo Deng's adoptive father and emphasized the importance of conservation efforts.
The donation will occur in two installments: an immediate payment of 5 million THB, followed by the remaining balance within one year. This structured approach ensures efficient organization of conservation initiatives while enhancing Moo Deng's environment.
The Future of Meme Coins
The rise of MOODENG illustrates a trend where meme coins serve as platforms for philanthropy and community engagement alongside their speculative nature.
Buterin's involvement has fostered perceptions of genuine community engagement and social responsibility, despite skepticism surrounding these tokens due to volatility.
The increased awareness of MOODENG’s connection to animal welfare and Buterin's philanthropic background may encourage other cryptocurrencies to follow suit.
Featured image from San Diego Zoo, chart from TradingView