In a significant development for the blockchain and cryptocurrency industry, WAGMI has announced that Shawn Owen, CEO of SALT Lending, will deliver the keynote address at its upcoming conference in Miami. Scheduled for January 21-24, 2025, the event is poised to be a pivotal gathering for blockchain leaders and enthusiasts from around the world.
Owen's selection as keynote speaker underscores the growing importance of cryptocurrency-backed lending in the evolving landscape of digital finance. As the co-founder of SALT, Owen has been instrumental in pioneering Bitcoin-backed loans, raising over $124 million and establishing a leading position in the Bitcoin lending industry. His expertise extends beyond lending, as evidenced by his founding of Equa in 2019, a venture aimed at revolutionizing company formation and governance through blockchain technology.
The choice of Owen as keynote speaker reflects WAGMI's commitment to showcasing industry leaders who are driving innovation and growth in the blockchain sector. WAGMI founder and organizer Moe Levin praised Owen as "one of the most compelling experts" he has encountered in his decade-plus career of organizing such events. This endorsement highlights the potential impact of Owen's insights on the conference attendees and the broader blockchain community.
WAGMI, which stands for "We're All Gonna Make It," is more than just a conference; it represents a symbol of optimism in the face of crypto market volatility. The event is expected to draw over 10,000 members of the global blockchain community from more than 100 countries, making it America's most prominent blockchain event. The conference's rapid ticket sales, with 75% already sold out, indicate the high level of interest and anticipation within the industry.
The significance of WAGMI extends beyond its impressive speaker lineup and attendance figures. As a forum for advancing conversations around blockchain technology and digital finance, the conference plays a crucial role in shaping the future of the industry. By bringing together a diverse range of participants, from enthusiasts to financial institutions, WAGMI creates an environment conducive to collaboration, innovation, and progress.
The conference's focus on practical aspects of blockchain technology, such as coding and programming skills, networking opportunities, and project visibility, demonstrates its commitment to fostering tangible growth and development within the industry. This approach is particularly important as blockchain technology continues to evolve and find new applications across various sectors.
The inclusion of other notable speakers, such as Miami mayor Francis Suarez and "Crypto Pioneers" like Charlie Shrem and Nick Spanos, further enhances the conference's appeal and potential impact. These diverse perspectives will contribute to a rich dialogue on the current state and future prospects of blockchain and cryptocurrency.
As the blockchain and cryptocurrency industries continue to mature and face new challenges and opportunities, events like WAGMI play a crucial role in facilitating knowledge exchange, fostering innovation, and building community. The conference's emphasis on interoperability and collaboration aligns with the growing recognition of the need for greater integration and cooperation within the blockchain ecosystem.
The announcement of Shawn Owen as keynote speaker for WAGMI 2025 is not just a testament to his individual achievements and expertise, but also a reflection of the broader trends and priorities within the blockchain and digital finance sectors. As the industry continues to evolve, the insights and discussions generated at WAGMI are likely to have far-reaching implications for the future of blockchain technology, cryptocurrency adoption, and the broader financial landscape.
