Buenos Aires Shows Crypto's Real Purpose Beyond Online Debates

**EF Devcon** creates a powerful ecosystem effect that captures talent and resources. The conference brings together: - Top research talent - Security auditors - Protocol specialists This concentration creates a **self-reinforcing loop** where ideas, capital, and builders don't just visit - they get pulled into the ecosystem's orbit. The event demonstrates how physical gatherings can generate momentum that extends far beyond the conference itself, with every project and conversation feeding back into broader coordination efforts.

In Argentina, stablecoins like USDC aren't just trading tools - they're **digital savings accounts**. With inflation exceeding 100%, Argentinians call USDC their *'dólar digital'* as their primary way to preserve value. **Key developments:** - Stablecoins account for **61.8%** of crypto transactions as locals abandon the peso - Over **100 businesses** in Buenos Aires accept USDT and USDC for daily purchases - Retail trading surged **150-250%** after currency control discussions - Mendoza province allows **tax payments** in USDT, USDC, and DAI This shift represents more than financial innovation - it's economic survival. While crypto Twitter sees stablecoins as trading pairs, Argentinians use them as their primary store of value against hyperinflation. The contrast highlights how **real-world utility** differs dramatically from speculative use cases in developed markets.

**Ethereum conferences reveal a distinct engineering culture** that sets the ecosystem apart from typical tech environments. Key observations from recent gatherings: - **Engineering mindset over coding** - Attendees focus on robust system design rather than quick solutions - **Obsession with edge cases** - Teams prioritize identifying and solving potential failure points - **Formal verification emphasis** - Mathematical proofs and rigorous testing take precedence - **Deliberate development approach** - The mantra is "move deliberately and build things that don't break" This contrasts sharply with Silicon Valley's "move fast and break things" philosophy. **Ethereum's culture prioritizes reliability and long-term stability** over rapid iteration. The ecosystem continues to attract builders and institutions who value this methodical approach to blockchain development.

**Schelling Point Buenos Aires** has wrapped up, and organizers have released an official aftermovie capturing the event's highlights. The conference, which took place in Buenos Aires, brought together builders and community members from the web3 space. Attendees described the atmosphere as energetic and the networking opportunities as memorable. - Official aftermovie now available on YouTube - Event focused on connecting people who could influence each other's thinking - Buenos Aires served as the backdrop for this community gathering The [aftermovie](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q8GGfYQ8uvo) aims to preserve the conference experience for both attendees and those who couldn't make it. *Watch the aftermovie to see highlights from the Buenos Aires event.*