Did The OpenAI and Microsoft Saga Just Trigger Massive Interest in AI Tokens?

Dalmas Ngetich

1 year ago

2 mins read

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The recent saga surrounding OpenAI and its co-founder Sam Altman has sparked a surge of interest in AI tokens, with total weekly trade volume surpassing $2 billion for the first time since March, fresh data from Kaiko, a blockchain analytics platform, shows.

According to statistics, WLD, the native token on Worldcoin, a project co-founded by Altman, and other tokens, including FET, the primary coin behind the AI-reliant blockchain, Fetch.ai, appear to be primary gainers. Even so, WLD prices remain below November 2023 lows when writing.

Trading volume of AI tokens | Source: Kaiko on X

WLD Remains Volatile

Even so, looking at market data, the spike in crypto AI trading volume seems driven mainly by WLD activity. Looking at the project’s share, trading volume comprises over 33% of all related crypto AI trading volume.

While there is a noticeable spike in activity, it remains below the all-time high of above $4 billion in Q1 2023. Then, traders and investors were keen on AGIX, the SingularityNET token. However, over the months, Worldcoin has since taken over as investor interest shifted to WLD, evidenced by the gradual rise of trading volume.

Worldcoin price trending upward on the daily chart | Source: WLDUSDT on Binance, TradingView

Looking at WLD price action over the past three days, prices have been volatile, though trading volume has been mostly up from November 13. Following news of Altman’s removal as CEO of OpenAI, prices fell before slightly expanding with news of negotiations to return to the role, followed by his appointment to lead Microsoft’s AI team.

All these events have contributed to the market’s heightened interest in WLD. Accordingly, trading volume across the broader crypto AI scene stands above the $2 billion level for the first time since March.

The Sam Altman And OpenAI Drama Turns Attention To Worldcoin

Though there is no direct connection between OpenAI and Worldcoin, crypto participants focus on events at OpenAI and how the board handled Altman as a factor catalyzing WLD’s activity.

The general lack of clarity on why the board ousted Altman as CEO worsens the situation, sparking speculation that this could also impact WLD’s prices and how Worldcoin is governed, considering the former CEO is also behind the crypto AI project.

Looking at the co-founder’s previous role as the team leading Worldcoin’s developments, Altman also holds significant sway, contributing to discussions on how the government should regulate AI at the end of the day.

Altman’s influential role has impacted Worldcoin and its prices since the blockchain project aims to create a global identity system. Worldcoin’s operations would rely on AI, including fraud prevention, data analysis, verification, and more.

Feature image from Canva, chart from TradingView

Dalmas Ngetich

Dalmas, a seasoned crypto reporter, brings a unique perspective to the industry. His specialization in NFTs, blockchain, DeFi, and blockchain news for NewsBTC, combined with a background in mechanical engineering and over a decade of experience in journalism, has allowed him to craft over 10,000 news and feature articles over the past eight years. His diverse range of topics, including technology, Forex, and finance, reflects his comprehensive understanding of the crypto landscape.

His technical expertise and analytical skills have been recognized and featured by leading news outlets such as Investing.com, CoinTelegraph, Entrepreneur, Forbes, and other authority sites. Notably, he broke key news, including the Ripple and MoneyGram partnership, cementing his position as a thought leader in crypto.
The news exploded. Over 100,000 people devoured this meticulously crafted report, from seasoned investors to curious newcomers. His analysis wasn't just dry facts and figures; it crackled with insight, dissecting the implications of the partnership and its potential impact on the future of finance.

His deep understanding of the financial markets, technological advancements, and blockchain developments has made him a respected voice in the industry.

Dalmas is also the founder of BTC-Pulse, a crypto news site, further demonstrating his commitment to the field. He firmly believes that DeFi and NFTs are here to stay and will continue to drive financial inclusion.

Coming from Nairobi, Kenya, it is easy to see the source of his inspiration: Across Africa, millions lack access to traditional banks. Remote villages, limited documentation, and high minimum balances create insurmountable barriers.

DeFi, not just Maker or Aave, for example, but think of Bitcoin and USDT, cuts out the middleman. Forget banks with their limitations.
Even so, DeFi isn't a magic solution. The continent still struggles with reliable internet access, and educational campaigns highlighting the benefits of this wonderful solution are insufficient. Moreover, even for those interested, understanding DeFi can look like learning a new language.

Dalmas is here to help make the tech easy to understand and digestible, even for beginners.
The story of DeFi in Africa is still being written. Challenges abound, but the promise of a more inclusive financial future is a powerful motivator. With innovation and collaboration, Dalmas firmly believes that DeFi could become the key to unlocking Africa's full economic potential.
This possibility and its immense value motivate Dalmas to continue breaking key DeFi innovations and more across the globe. His engineering background further enhances his ability to deliver well-thought-out pieces that blend technical insight with clear, impactful reporting.

Beyond his professional achievements, Dalmas is deeply passionate about technology and politics. Policies drive adoption, and being at the forefront and keeping up with how they evolve is crucial for the sphere to mature.

When Dalmas is not closely monitoring the latest crypto events, he can be found in nature, exploring the picturesque countryside, and traveling with his family and friends. His love for adventure and discovery perfectly complements his investigative and reporting skills.
You can connect with Dalmas on X: @Dalmas_Ngetich, or contact him on Telegram @Dalmas_Ngetich.

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