Why Do the Meme Coins You Buy Only Fall? — Deconstructing the Growth Spiral and Volume of Meme Coins Using First Principles
In this article, the author proposes a novel "financial physics" framework to analyze meme coins, arguing that their value isn't purely speculative but can be understood through a mathematical model. The core idea is that a meme coin's market capitalization isn't just about price increases (Z-axis), but is fundamentally "supported" by a base formed by narrative density ("X-axis") and propagation nodes ("Y-axis").
The growth of a successful meme is visualized as a three-dimensional, upward-spiraling cone. The cone's volume (V), representing market cap, is determined by the formula V = 1/3 * (base area) * (height). Here, the base radius (r) is the product of X (narrative strength) and Y (community/node spread), making it a squared function (r = x * y), which captures the network effect. The height (h) is the capital inflow (Z). A meme with a large, stable base can support a tall, stable cone of high value, whereas one with only height (price pump) and no base is an unstable "needle" destined to collapse.
The article illustrates this model through four evolutionary stages: Ignition (a strong X and Y trigger a Z surge), Reflexivity (price increase fuels further propagation), Narrative Upgrade (community expands the story from a simple meme to a cultural symbol, X → X'), and finally, the Value Black Hole (the upgraded narrative attracts massive, stable capital).
Two case studies are used:
1. **Broccoli:** Its narrative (X) was ignited by CZ naming his dog "Broccoli," propagated by his massive node (Y), leading to a capital surge (Z). Thousands of copycats failed because they lacked narrative development and a genuine community (a small r), while the successful ones expanded their base.
2. **Pnut:** It started with a powerful narrative of "justice for a killed squirrel" (X), which was massively amplified by top-tier nodes like Elon Musk (Y), causing a capital explosion (Z). Its narrative successfully upgraded to a broader political movement (X'), giving it a huge, stable base and immense market cap.
The model highlights that sustainable meme growth depends on first expanding the consensus base (X*Y) before capital (Z) can build a significant and stable value (V). The coefficient 1/3 represents the inherent friction and attention decay in converting hype into lasting value. The article concludes by teasing a follow-up on practical strategies for identifying and participating in meme opportunities across various chains.
marsbitIeri 05:42
