Bitcoin Was Once Called Vaporware by WSJ
In 2021, WSJ labeled Bitcoin as vaporware and a bubble—back when BTC was just $33K.
- WSJ dismissed Bitcoin as vaporware in 2021.
- At that time, BTC traded around $33,000.
- Bitcoin has since defied those claims with continued growth.
Back in 2021, when Bitcoin was gaining mainstream attention, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) published an article dismissing it as “vaporware,” “nothing,” and a speculative bubble. At that time, Bitcoin was trading at around $33,000—a price that already seemed high to many. Yet, the traditional financial media still questioned its value and long-term sustainability.
This statement came during a period of growing adoption and increased investment from retail and institutional players. Despite the skepticism, Bitcoin continued to strengthen its presence in global finance.
What Has Changed Since Then?
Fast-forward to today, Bitcoin has proven itself as more than just hype. Major companies have added BTC to their balance sheets, countries like El Salvador have adopted it as legal tender, and major asset managers have launched Bitcoin ETFs. These developments have significantly shifted the narrative.
Bitcoin’s price has also gone far beyond the $33K level that WSJ referred to in its critique. Although the crypto market remains volatile, Bitcoin has demonstrated resilience and growing legitimacy in both financial and regulatory spaces.
Why It Matters Now
Revisiting past criticisms highlights how early doubt often precedes innovation acceptance. The WSJ’s 2021 take reflects the kind of resistance new technologies face before they gain widespread trust. Bitcoin, once viewed as a passing trend or a risky bubble, now plays a prominent role in discussions about the future of money.
As Bitcoin continues to evolve, it’s clear that what some once called vaporware is now shaping monetary policy, digital ownership, and financial independence worldwide.
