MemCast
MemCast / episode / insight
Choosing not to raise capital was controversial but proved right as others later copied the model
  • Jeff admits the decision was unpopular at the time, with many peers pushing for VC money.
  • Within months, similar “no‑raise” strategies appeared across DeFi, validating Hyperliquid’s stance.
  • The early contrarian move gave the team credibility and demonstrated confidence in product‑market fit.
  • It also avoided the dilution and governance complications associated with large VC stakes.
Jeff YanWhen Shift Happens05:27:00

Supporting quotes

when we decided not to raise ... no one agreed with that but it was controversial Jeff Yan
Recalling the internal debate
later everyone started copying it in defi Jeff Yan
Observing industry trends

From this concept

Funding Philosophy: Contrarian Decision to Not Raise

Jeff explains why Hyperliquid chose to stay bootstrapped, arguing that VC ownership can scar a network and that self-funded revenue aligns incentives with users. The decision was initially controversial but later proved prescient as the model gained traction across DeFi.

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