Key Takeaways

• Solana co‑founder Anatoly Yakovenko called meme coins and NFTs “digital slop” with no inherent value — even while they drive the network’s growth.
• He likened these assets to video‑game loot boxes—speculative, short‑lived attention cycles.
• Critics argue that the very tokens he denounced account for over 60% of Solana dApp revenue and revive the ecosystem.

In a public exchange with Base creator Jesse Pollak, Solana co‑founder Anatoly Yakovenko stirred controversy—calling meme coins and NFTs “digital slop” that lack intrinsic value, even as they have fueled much of Solana’s recent economic revival.

Yakovenko’s Dismissal of Speculative Assets

Yakovenko compared meme coins and NFTs to loot boxes in free‑to‑play games—flashy, addictive but ultimately valueless.

“Memecoins and NFTs are digital slop and have no intrinsic value,” he tweeted, claiming this has been his stance since at least early 2024.

Backlash from the Community

The comments resonated sharply because Solana’s recent growth has been powered by exactly those categories.

Data shows meme coins generated approximately 62% of Solana’s decentralized app revenue in June 2025, contributing to over $1.6 billion H1 earnings.

Critics accused Yakovenko of discrediting the same users and tokens that revived Solana post‑FTX slump.

Conclusion

Yakovenko’s critique underscores a deeper tension in crypto: growth fueled by fan‑driven speculation versus longer‑term fundamental value. Despite his disdain, meme coins remain deeply embedded in Solana’s economic engine—a paradox that reflects the broader challenges of sustainable growth in the blockchain world.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Yakovenko mean by “digital slop”?
He used the term to describe meme coins and NFTs he views as speculative, lacking tangible value.

Aren’t meme coins crucial to Solana’s success?
Yes—analysis shows they drive over 60% of Solana’s dApp revenue and trading activity.

Did Yakovenko acknowledge their role?
Yes; despite criticism, he admitted meme coins helped re‑energize Solana’s ecosystem.