Vitalik Buterin, the co-founder of Ethereum and a pioneering figure in the cryptocurrency space, has once again demonstrated his compassionate nature with a significant act of charity. Recently, Buterin adopted Moo Deng, a pygmy hippopotamus who gained fame for her charming personality and captivating social media presence, by donating an astounding 10,000,000 THB (~88 ETH or ~$292,000) to the Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Thailand.
This generous contribution not only secured Buterin’s status as the adoptive father of Moo Deng but also highlights his ongoing commitment to supporting wildlife and charitable initiatives. As the zoo announced on December 26, they expressed gratitude towards Buterin, looking forward to a collaborative effort over the next two years.
Moo Deng’s rise to internet stardom began in September 2024, captivating audiences worldwide with her expressive demeanor, thanks to entertaining videos published by the zoo. Responding to the outpouring of support, Buterin enthused about his involvement, hinting that his contributions might exceed the current donation. He stated, “I’m happy to be adoptive father to Moo Deng as she grows up over the next 2 years and support her with my 10M THB donation, maybe more as I set aside 88 ETH for [Moo Deng] + frens.”
This heartwarming gesture aligns with Buterin’s previous philanthropic endeavors. Notably, in October, he donated over $180,000 in Ethereum tokens to a biotech charity, showcasing his dedication to using his wealth for positive impact. Additionally, his support for the Moo Deng memecoin has generated considerable buzz, even leading to substantial returns for early traders before significant declines in value.
- Key Highlights:
- Buterin adopted Moo Deng with an 88 ETH donation.
- Moo Deng has become an internet sensation since September 2024.
- Buterin’s commitment extends beyond adoption; he plans to support Moo Deng financially over the next two years.
- The meme token derived from Moo Deng saw both massive gains and subsequent losses.
The fascinating story of Moo Deng illustrates the charming intersection of social media, cryptocurrency, and animal welfare. As Buterin continues to blend his financial acumen with heartfelt charity, the world awaits to see how Moo Deng thrives with her newfound adoptive father.
