Hey there, crypto enthusiasts! If you’re into the wild world of blockchain, you’ve probably wondered who really reaps the rewards in this decentralized universe—is it the underlying protocols or the dazzling decentralized applications (dApps) built on top? Well, you’re in for a treat because the Ethereum Community Conference (EthCC) 2025 is tackling this juicy topic head-on! Happening today, Thursday, July 3, 2025, at the stunning Palais des Festivals in Cannes, this session promises to spark some serious debate.

What’s the Buzz About?

The session, titled “Who Captures the Value? The Protocol or the dApp?”, kicks off at 12:30 PM on the Chaplin Stage, hosted by the EthCC Partners. Moderated by Andy from The Rollup, this panel brings together a powerhouse lineup of blockchain experts. You’ve got Belma Gutlic from ChainSafe, Vangelis from Sei Labs, Guy Wuollet from a16z crypto, and Winny from Chipped Social. These folks are diving deep into the economics of blockchain, asking the big question: who gets the lion’s share of value in this ecosystem?

For those new to the game, a protocol is like the backbone of a blockchain—think Ethereum itself, handling the rules and security. dApps, on the other hand, are the flashy apps built on top, like decentralized games or exchanges (e.g., Uniswap). The debate hinges on whether the infrastructure (protocols) or the user-facing innovations (dApps) drive and capture the most value. It’s a clash of foundations versus creativity!

Why This Matters

Understanding who captures value is crucial for anyone in the blockchain space—developers, investors, or even meme token enthusiasts like us at Meme Insider. If protocols hold the power, it might mean more focus on improving scalability and security. But if dApps are where the money’s at, we could see a boom in innovative projects that grab user attention. This session could shape the future of how we build and invest in blockchain tech, including those quirky meme tokens we love!

What to Expect

With the event happening right now (it’s 4:12 PM +07, and the session started at 12:30 PM local time in Cannes), you can bet the discussion is heating up. Expect some mind-blowing insights as these experts break down complex ideas into bite-sized takeaways. Will protocols like Ethereum continue to dominate, or will dApps like CryptoKitties steal the spotlight? The panel might even touch on real-world examples, like how ChainSafe ensures cross-chain safety or how a16z crypto invests in promising dApps.

Join the Conversation

If you’re in Cannes, swing by the Chaplin Stage—trust me, you won’t want to miss this! For those of us tuning in remotely, keep an eye on the EthCC Twitter for live updates. The vibe is all about community (IYKYK—If You Know, You Know!), so jump into the chat with your thoughts. Are you team protocol or team dApp? Drop your take in the comments below!

This session is just one highlight of EthCC 2025, running from June 30 to July 3. It’s a fantastic chance to geek out over blockchain innovation against the glamorous backdrop of the French Riviera. Stay tuned to Meme Insider for more updates on this and other crypto events shaping the future!