In a recent public AMA, Ethereum founder Vitalik Buterin shared insights on a range of topics—from technical critiques of wallet infrastructure and tokenization trends to broader reflections on crypto culture, governance, and even personal milestones.
His responses highlighted both concerns and opportunities within the blockchain ecosystem, offering a nuanced perspective on where the industry stands today and where it might be headed.
On Wallet Security: MPC vs. Smart Contract Wallets
When asked about the comparative strengths and weaknesses of Multi-Party Computation (MPC) based Externally Owned Accounts (EOAs) versus smart contract wallets, Buterin was unequivocal:
“MPC-based EOA wallets have a fundamental flaw—they cannot revoke keys. Key resharing doesn’t solve this, as the old key holders can still recover the wallet. Smart contract wallets are the only viable long-term solution.”
This comment sparked a response from some in the MPC community, highlighting the ongoing debate around usability, security, and decentralization in wallet design.
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Critique of Tokenization Narratives
Buterin expressed frustration with those who see tokenization as the primary innovation of cryptocurrency. While acknowledging that tokenization has enabled new economic models and democratized access to financial tools, he argued that an overemphasis on this aspect overlooks the technology’s broader potential.
He also pointed to what he sees as significant misallocations of capital within the crypto space—often directed toward what he termed “low-value projects.”
Cultural Shifts and Community Dynamics
Buterin has previously referred to Bitcoin Cash (BCH) as “largely a failure.” However, in this AMA, he acknowledged noticeable cultural progress within the BCH community, citing greater stability and cohesion over the past few years. He wished the project well, signaling a more open-minded stance toward its development.
On the question of whether Ethereum culture is becoming less technical and more influenced by non-technical voices—similar to Bitcoin’s trajectory—Buterin clarified that the issue isn’t a lack of technical expertise per se, but rather the combination of overconfidence, adversarial communication, and non-technical rhetoric.
Personal Achievements and Lifestyle
Beyond blockchain, Buterin also shared a few personal anecdotes. He revealed that his longest-ever walk was 113 kilometers, taking approximately 23 hours to complete—a testament to his endurance and perhaps a metaphor for the long-haul nature of blockchain development.
When asked which applications he uses most frequently, he listed:
- Web browsers
- Messaging apps
- Duolingo
- Pleco (for Chinese language learning)
- Ethereum wallet apps
Broader Perspectives on Risk and Governance
Buterin also touched on existential risks facing humanity in the coming century. He ranked artificial intelligence and engineered pandemics as the top threats, followed by nuclear war and the rise of unbreakable AI-enhanced authoritarian regimes.
On a more optimistic note, he expressed excitement about developments in regenerative finance and public goods funding—particularly tools that improve transparency and traceability in resource allocation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main flaw in MPC-based wallets?
MPC wallets allow key resharing but cannot fully revoke access from previous key holders. This creates a security vulnerability that smart contract wallets—which allow for programmable access controls—do not have.
Why does Vitalik think tokenization is overemphasized?
While tokenization has enabled financial innovation, But believes it distracts from more fundamental breakthroughs in decentralization, privacy, and governance that blockchain technology can enable.
What is Zuzalu, and why is it significant?
Zuzalu is a experimental pop-up community focused on cryptography, governance, and health. Buterin considered it a success in terms of community building, knowledge sharing, and integrating zero-knowledge technology.
Which countries does Vitalik see as future crypto hubs?
He generally expressed more optimism about smaller countries becoming crypto-friendly hubs compared to larger nations, though he did not specify which ones.
What are Buterin’s main concerns about crypto culture?
He pointed to capital misallocation, inconsistent principles among so-called “libertarians,” unrealistic purist beliefs, and unnecessary conflicts as key cultural challenges.
Would Vitalik move to Mars if given the chance?
He said it would depend on the quality of life, jurisdictional structure, and cultural environment of a potential Martian settlement—not just technical or financial feasibility.
Buterin’s latest AMA offered a mix of technical clarity, cultural criticism, and forward-looking speculation. Whether discussing wallet security, community dynamics, or human survival, his comments continue to shape conversations across the crypto ecosystem.