One of the most intriguing aspects of cryptocurrency has always been its promise of anonymity and decentralization. Bitcoin, for example, was launched in 2008 by an unknown figure using the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto—a name still shrouded in mystery. The digital asset ecosystem has long offered users the ability to interact without revealing their identities, fostering an environment of financial inclusion. However, while the ethos of crypto champions openness and universal access, the reality has historically been different.
Breaking the ‘Crypto Bros’ Narrative
In its early days, the cryptocurrency industry was overwhelmingly shaped by young, tech-savvy men, often referred to as the “crypto bros.” Their influence extended to the development of key protocols, culture-building, and the overall direction of the industry. This male-dominated landscape made it challenging for women to break into the space, limiting diverse perspectives in decision-making and innovation.
As the industry has matured, efforts to promote gender inclusivity have gained traction, leading to a more diverse ecosystem. A 2024 study revealed that out of the 560 million global cryptocurrency owners, 39% now identify as female, marking an increase from 37% in 2023. This shift signals growing female participation in digital assets and highlights the progress being made to balance gender representation in the sector.
Empowering Women in Crypto
In response to this rising participation, organizations and initiatives have emerged to bridge the gender gap in crypto. Many conferences and events that were once male-dominated now actively encourage female engagement and leadership.
One such initiative is the Association for Women in Cryptocurrency (AWC), founded in 2022 by Amanda Wick. The platform provides educational resources, mentorship opportunities, and networking events aimed at helping women navigate the complexities of crypto. AWC hosts webinars, in-person meetups, and industry roundtables, ensuring that women have the knowledge and connections needed to succeed in the blockchain space.
Similarly, Binance Academy has introduced global programs exclusively for women in honor of International Women’s Day. Held across five continents in 11 venues, these events aim to lower the barrier to entry for women in crypto, providing practical training and educational content tailored to female investors and entrepreneurs.
Women Leading the Future of Blockchain
Despite historical underrepresentation, women have increasingly stepped into leadership roles within the crypto industry. Some of the most influential female figures include:
- Perianne Boring – Founder and CEO of The Digital Chamber, an organization advocating for blockchain technology at the government and congressional level. She has been instrumental in shaping regulatory discussions and was even considered for the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) chair position under President Trump.
- Joanna Liang – Founding partner of Jsquare, a blockchain and Web3-focused investment firm. Previously the CIO at Digital Finance Group (DFG), Liang recently launched the Pioneer Fund, raising $50 million to invest in emerging blockchain technologies such as PayFi, real-world assets (RWAs), and consumer crypto applications.
- Laura Shin – A journalist and one of the first mainstream media figures to cover cryptocurrency full-time. She authored The Cryptopians: Idealism, Greed, Lies, and the Making of the First Big Cryptocurrency Craze, providing an in-depth look at crypto’s early years. She also hosts Unchained, a podcast that explores the latest blockchain trends and market developments.
Shaping the Future of an Inclusive Crypto Space
The growing involvement of women in cryptocurrency has been instrumental in shifting its narrative from a niche, speculative asset to a more widely accepted financial tool. Their contributions span regulatory advocacy, investment strategies, blockchain development, and education, proving that the industry is no longer an exclusive club for early adopters and tech insiders.
As crypto adoption continues to rise, it is crucial to maintain and expand these inclusivity efforts. By fostering a diverse and open ecosystem, the crypto industry can better serve its global user base, ensuring that the next generation of blockchain leaders reflects the full spectrum of talent and perspectives.
