Ethereum

Cryptocurrency

Bitcoin

when

<div data-ct-widget="explained-block" id="explained-block-126165-4">
 <h2 data-ct-widget="explained-block-title" id="lindy-effect-explained">Lindy effect, explained</h2>
 <p data-ct-widget="explained-block-content"></p>
 <p><em>The Lindy effect (also known as Lindy’s Law) is a theory that holds that the life expectancy of a non-perishable thing, such as a technology or cultural phenomenon, is directly correlated with its age.&nbsp;</em></p>
 <p>Broadway actors used to gather at New York’s Lindy Deli, where author Nassim Nicholas Taleb first introduced the term. The <a href="https://cointelegraph.com/innovation-circle/the-lindy-effect-and-how-it-presents-itself-in-web3" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Lindy effect</a> would indicate that a Broadway show’s longevity would be approximately the same if it ran for a specific amount of weeks. This principle implies that the longer something has existed, the longer it is expected to continue existing.</p>
 <p>One of its characteristics is the Lindy effect’s nonlinear link between age and remaining lifespan. In general, something grows stronger with age since it has previously withstood multiple selection pressures. This concept has applications across various domains. In the technology field, it implies that long-standing technologies have a higher chance of enduring and being relevant.&nbsp;</p>
 <p>In finance, it can help investors concentrate on time-tested methods rather than fleeting trends. In culture, timeless works of art, music and literature will likely continue to impact society for many years to come. Hence, the Lindy effect provides a valuable heuristic for evaluating the durability and endurance of concepts, innovations and cultural events across various domains.</p>
 <p><strong><em>Related: <a href="https://cointelegraph.com/learn/dow-theory-how-does-it-apply-to-cryptocurrencies" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">What is Dow Theory, and how does it apply to cryptocurrencies?</a></em></strong></p>
 <p></p>
</div>
<div data-ct-widget="explained-block" id="explained-block-126165-3">
 <h2 data-ct-widget="explained-block-title" id="application-of-the-lindy-effect-to-blockchain">Application of the Lindy effect to blockchain</h2>
 <p data-ct-widget="explained-block-content"></p>
 <p><em>The Lindy effect provides insightful information about the resilience and lifespan of various blockchain initiatives and <a href="https://cointelegraph.com/learn/what-is-a-cryptocurrency-a-beginners-guide-to-digital-money" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">cryptocurrencies</a> in the field of <a href="https://cointelegraph.com/learn/how-does-blockchain-work-everything-there-is-to-know" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">blockchain technology</a>.&nbsp;</em></p>
 <p>A blockchain project has a higher chance of remaining relevant and profitable in the long run if it has <a href="https://cointelegraph.com/news/blockchain-assessment-how-to-assess-different-chains" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">demonstrated its viability and longevity</a>. Established cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (<a href="https://cointelegraph.com/bitcoin-price" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">BTC</a>) and Ether (<a href="https://cointelegraph.com/ethereum-price" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">ETH</a>), which have been around for over a decade, exemplify this principle.</p>
 <p>Developers and investors can use the Lindy effect to assess cryptocurrency and blockchain initiatives. People generally view projects with a longer history of security, decentralization and community support as more <a href="https://cointelegraph.com/news/how-to-evaluate-any-crypto-project-using-fundamental-analysis" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">reliable and resilient</a>. This could impact investment choices, giving initiatives with a track record of stability and innovation more weight.</p>
 <p>The Lindy effect also emphasizes how crucial it is to comprehend the underlying concepts and technologies of blockchain initiatives. It emphasizes fundamental elements necessary for long-term viability, such as <a href="https://cointelegraph.com/learn/dao-governance-models" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">governance structures</a>, consensus processes and network security. Stakeholders in the blockchain sector can choose which projects to fund and make informed decisions by applying the Lindy effect.</p>
 <p></p>
</div>
<div data-ct-widget="explained-block" id="explained-block-126165-2">
 <h2 data-ct-widget="explained-block-title" id="how-does-the-lindy-effect-apply-to-the-bitcoin-blockchain">How does the Lindy effect apply to the Bitcoin blockchain?</h2>
 <p data-ct-widget="explained-block-content"></p>
 <p><em>When it comes to <a href="https://cointelegraph.com/learn/what-is-bitcoin-a-beginners-guide-to-the-worlds-first-cryptocurrency" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Bitcoin</a> — the first cryptocurrency, which has been <a href="https://cointelegraph.com/learn/the-history-of-bitcoin-when-did-bitcoin-start" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">around since 2009</a> — the Lindy effect is highly relevant.&nbsp;</em></p>
 <p>The fact that <a href="https://cointelegraph.com/learn/how-does-blockchain-work-a-beginners-guide-to-blockchain-technology" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Bitcoin</a> has survived and rebounded over the last 10 years is evidence of its continuing significance and possible future growth. Being the first decentralized digital currency, Bitcoin has overcome several obstacles, such as market volatility, technological difficulties and <a href="https://cointelegraph.com/learn/is-bitcoin-legal" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">governmental scrutiny</a>.&nbsp;</p>
 <p>Cryptocurrency regulations vary globally, with some countries embracing crypto, such as El Salvador, <a href="https://cointelegraph.com/news/btc-becomes-legal-tender-in-el-salvador-5-things-to-watch-in-bitcoin-this-week" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">which made Bitcoin legal tender in 2021</a>, while others, like <a href="https://cointelegraph.com/learn/cryptocurrency-bill-countries-where-cryptocurrency-is-restricted-or-illegal" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">China, have imposed outright bans</a>. Regulatory changes can heavily influence Bitcoin’s market, impacting its price with downward pressure from restrictions and potential increases with enhanced accessibility measures like <a href="https://cointelegraph.com/learn/bitcoin-etfs-a-beginners-guide-to-exchange-traded-funds" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">exchange-traded fund approvals</a> and improved security protocols.</p>
 <p>Regardless, Bitcoin has continuously held the top spot among cryptocurrencies in terms of market capitalization and user base. It also attained the rank of the eighth-largest asset globally when it briefly <a href="https://cointelegraph.com/news/bitcoin-market-cap-new-high-surpassing-silver" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">exceeded the market capitalization of silver</a>. On March 6, 2024, as gold soared to an unprecedented $2,130 in traditional markets, Bitcoin <a href="https://cointelegraph.com/news/bitcoin-gold-new-price-records-same-day" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">set a new record</a>, reaching $69,210 and marking a historic day for the cryptocurrency community.</p> <img alt="Bitcoin and gold’s ATHs" src="https://s3.cointelegraph.com/storage/uploads/view/495ec01884a7c0368838dac1296a2517.jpg" title="Bitcoin and gold’s ATHs">
 <p>According to the Lindy effect, Bitcoin has a greater chance of <a href="https://cointelegraph.com/learn/how-can-third-world-countries-counter-inflation-using-bitcoin" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">remaining important</a> if it endures and serves as a decentralized store of wealth and medium of exchange. The fact that it is widely used, its network security and its <a href="https://cointelegraph.com/news/michael-saylor-buy-bitcoin-forever-no-reason-sell" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">institutional interest</a> are all signs of its resilience. Furthermore, over time, Bitcoin’s value proposition and scarcity are enhanced by its <a href="https://cointelegraph.com/explained/can-bitcoins-hard-cap-of-21-million-be-changed" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">protocol-established fixed supply cap</a> of 21 million coins.</p>
 <p>The endurance of Bitcoin throughout market downturns, its ability to attract long-term hodlers (holders), and its continuous development and improvement through innovations like the Lightning Network and <a href="https://cointelegraph.com/learn/a-beginners-guide-to-the-bitcoin-taproot-upgrade" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Taproot</a> are a few instances of the Lindy effect in action.&nbsp;</p>
 <p>Other examples include innovative solutions, such as <a href="https://cointelegraph.com/explained/bitcoin-defi-ecosystem-explained" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">the RSK platform</a> and the <a href="https://cointelegraph.com/learn/what-is-a-brc-20-token-standard-an-overview" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">BRC-20 token standard</a>, which aim to expand Bitcoin’s capabilities, introducing smart contracts and tokenization directly on its blockchain. That said, Bitcoin’s compliance with the Lindy effect highlights its standing as a key technology that could play a long and lasting role in the digital economy.</p>
 <p></p>
</div>
<div data-ct-widget="explained-block" id="explained-block-126165-1">
 <h2 data-ct-widget="explained-block-title" id="metcalfe-s-law-vs-the-lindy-effect">Metcalfe’s law vs. The Lindy effect</h2>
 <p data-ct-widget="explained-block-content"></p>
 <p><em>Metcalfe’s law and the Lindy effect are two different but complementary principles used to assess the worth and lifespan of systems.&nbsp;</em></p>
 <p>According to the Lindy effect, something’s probability of continuing into the future increases with its duration. Age is a stand-in for potential resilience and focuses on an entity’s ability to withstand changes.&nbsp;</p>
 <p>On the other hand, the value of a network is proportionate to the square of its user base, according to <a href="https://cointelegraph.com/explained/what-is-metcalfes-law-and-why-does-it-matter" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Metcalfe’s law</a>. It highlights the concept of the “network effect,” which holds that a network’s value increases with the number of users it has because of the greater connectivity and interaction. Metcalfe’s law addresses the growth dynamics and network effects inside systems, whereas the Lindy Effect focuses on the age and robustness of systems.</p>
 <p><img alt="Metcalfe’s law vs. Lindy effect" src="https://s3.cointelegraph.com/storage/uploads/view/7116a5db2baa422551fc48cd1d065117.jpg" title="Metcalfe’s law vs. Lindy effect"></p>
 <p><strong><em>Related: <a href="https://cointelegraph.com/explained/what-is-reeds-law-and-why-does-it-matter-in-the-crypto-space" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">What is Reed’s law, and why does it matter in the crypto space?</a></em></strong></p>
 <p></p>
</div>
<div data-ct-widget="explained-block" id="explained-block-126165-0">
 <h2 data-ct-widget="explained-block-title" id="implications-of-the-lindy-effect-for-crypto-traders-and-investors">Implications of the Lindy effect for crypto traders and investors</h2>
 <p data-ct-widget="explained-block-content"></p>
 <p><em>The Lindy effect has significant ramifications for cryptocurrency traders and investors, which might influence their approach and choices.&nbsp;</em></p>
 <p>Firstly, it highlights the importance of history and longevity when assessing cryptocurrencies. According to the Lindy effect, projects with a longer history — like Bitcoin and Ethereum — have a higher chance of demonstrating resilience and remaining relevant over time. Rather than investing in newer, unproven initiatives, investors might prefer to focus on allocating their resources to these well-established cryptocurrencies.</p>
 <p>Furthermore, according to the Lindy effect, cryptocurrencies with a track record of security, decentralization and community support are more likely to survive regulatory obstacles and market volatility. This knowledge can direct investors toward assets that have proven to be resilient and stable in the face of difficulty.</p>
 <p>The Lindy effect also emphasizes the importance of long-term outlooks when investing in cryptocurrencies. Investing in projects with a long-term focus and a patient approach may be more advantageous for investors than pursuing quick profits based on <a href="https://cointelegraph.com/learn/a-beginners-guide-to-cryptocurrency-trading-strategies" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">speculative trends</a>. Crypto traders and investors can make informed decisions that adhere to the concepts of resilience and durability over time by understanding the ramifications of the Lindy effect.</p>
 <p></p>
</div>

What is the Lindy effect, and how does it apply to blockchain?

Table of Contents

Cointelegraph

Other articles published on Mar 14, 2024

Crypto Markets Swell With $12 Billion Surge So Far In 2024, Spotlight On Bitcoin ETFs

Smart Trader Nets $3.39M Profit Amidst Memecoin Surge

Historical Peaks and Downs of Bitcoin's 15 Years of Existence

Unveiling the Future: Nominations Open for Global Blockchain Awards Recognizing Web3 Excellence!

$100 to $2 Million: The Unprecedented Success of BEFE Coin Investors

MANTRA Aims to Bring RWA Tokenization to The Middle East and Asia (14 Mar)

Join our free newsletter for daily crypto updates!