Vitalik Buterin Criticizes Crypto Industry’s Shift in Values

Vitalik Buterin has expressed disappointment over what he sees as a shift in values within the crypto industry, particularly in relation to Ethereum’s cautious stance on blockchain gambling.

During an AMA on February 20, he responded to a question about his biggest frustrations over the past year, pointing to criticism Ethereum has faced for not fully embracing gambling-related applications.

He noted that some in the industry argue Ethereum is less open compared to other blockchains that allow any type of application. Buterin found this perspective troubling, suggesting that if such views became dominant, he would reconsider his involvement in the space. However, he acknowledged that direct interactions with community members have reassured him that Ethereum’s core principles remain strong.

Buterin emphasized that Ethereum’s future direction requires active participation from its community. He hinted that the Ethereum Foundation might take a more selective approach in supporting projects rather than maintaining complete neutrality.

His comments come as the Ethereum Foundation faces scrutiny over its financial decisions. In January, it was criticized for selling ETH to fund operations, with some suggesting alternative DeFi-based solutions. In response, the foundation allocated 45,000 ETH—worth $120 million—into DeFi lending platforms Aave, Spark, and Compound on February 13. The move was well received, and the foundation indicated that further steps, including staking, are being explored.