Have you ever wondered if the wild world of crypto could actually foster genuine innovation instead of just quick flips? Jesse Pollak, the mind behind Base, sparked a fascinating discussion with a single tweet that cuts through the noise of meme coin mania.

what if internet capital markets is actually about talented people building real, quality products and raising capital 10x more efficiently onchain while embodying a builder centric long term perspective?

This post from June 9, 2025, isn't just a hypothetical—it's a call to rethink how we approach funding in the digital age. Pollak, known for his work on Base, an Ethereum Layer 2 solution designed to make blockchain more accessible, highlights the potential for "internet capital markets" (often abbreviated as ICM) to empower creators. ICM refers to the emerging systems where capital flows freely online, often through decentralized platforms, bypassing traditional venture capital hurdles.

In the context of meme tokens, which are cryptocurrencies born from internet culture, humor, or viral trends, this vision is particularly intriguing. Meme coins like Dogecoin or newer ones on Base have shown how quickly communities can rally around an idea, raising funds in hours rather than months. But Pollak's point pushes beyond the hype: what if these mechanisms were used to build sustainable products? Imagine a meme token that starts as a joke but evolves into a real app or service, funded efficiently onchain—meaning directly on the blockchain without intermediaries.

The tweet resonated widely, garnering over 700 likes and sparking replies that echo this sentiment. For instance, one user pointed out the contrast with low-effort launches on other chains, emphasizing how Base could lead the way in quality over quantity. Another highlighted "cultural tokens" like those representing community narratives, suggesting they add layers of conviction and long-term alignment to capital markets.

This aligns perfectly with the ethos at Base, where low fees and high scalability make it easier for builders to experiment and iterate. For blockchain practitioners dipping into meme tokens, Pollak's perspective is a reminder to focus on value creation. Instead of chasing pumps, think about how your project can solve real problems or foster lasting communities.

Take the example of cultural liquidity flywheels mentioned in the replies—the idea that memes can generate narrative capital, which then fuels product development. This could be the bridge between fun, viral tokens and serious tech advancements. As someone who's seen the evolution of crypto media, I believe this builder-centric approach could elevate meme tokens from speculative assets to foundational elements of onchain economies.

If you're building or investing in memes, consider Pollak's words as a blueprint. Efficient onchain fundraising isn't just faster; it's more inclusive, allowing talented individuals worldwide to access capital without gatekeepers. Head over to the original tweet here to join the conversation and see how the community is responding.

In the end, the future of internet capital markets might just be about turning bold ideas into reality, one block at a time. Stay based, folks!