What if cryptocurrency was so simple your grandmother could use it? Anthony Diaz, founder and chairman of Zenza Capital and the RYO project, believes this is not only possible but essential for blockchain technology to reach its full potential.
The conversation begins with Anthony introducing RYO-CHAN, a unique meme token with actual utility. Unlike most meme coins, RYO-CHAN incorporates AI-driven tools for smart contract analysis and portfolio management, allowing users to evaluate potential investments and automate trading strategies with customizable parameters. This addresses a major pain point in the crypto space: the prevalence of scams and the technical knowledge typically required to avoid them.
Beyond RYO-CHAN lies the broader RYO ecosystem, which Anthony developed after experiencing firsthand how difficult it was to integrate Bitcoin payments into his established health supplements business in Japan. His solution? Create a comprehensive ecosystem including RYO-coin cryptocurrency, the Life Wallet mobile app, an e-commerce platform where crypto can be spent, and even physical ATMs throughout Japan.
We need to start thinking like the masses and addressing the needs of the masses, not the needs of the blockchain world or the blockchain space or the crypto world. That population is very small in relation to the rest of the world, so we're making it simple for grandma to do it, and if grandma to do it can do it, then anybody can do it. – Anthony Diaz
What distinguishes RYO's approach is its laser focus on consumer needs rather than technical specifications. Anthony draws parallels to successful marketing strategies from Nike and Red Bull, noting that these brands don't explain the technology behind their products—they simply let consumers experience the benefits directly. Similarly, crypto adoption should be about convenience and real-world utility, not blockchain jargon.
Anthony reveals that Japan serves as RYO's strategic testing ground, with plans for global expansion once the concept is proven in this highly trusted market. With AI accelerating development possibilities, he believes we're at the cusp of transformative change in how people interact with digital assets.
Ready to explore a vision of crypto that prioritizes real-world utility over technical complexity? Listen now to discover how blockchain technology can truly become "for the masses."
Joeri Billast and Anthony Diaz at BFC 2024
Empowering the Masses with Crypto: Making Crypto Simple and Accessible
This episode of the Web3 CMO Stories podcast featured a compelling conversation with Anthony Diaz, founder and chairman of Zenza Capital. Anthony is also the visionary behind RYO Coin and the recently launched RYO-CHAN token. In this in-depth discussion, he shared his mission to simplify and democratize access to crypto technologies—making blockchain solutions usable for everyday people, not just the tech elite.
A Mission for Mass Adoption
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Anthony’s mission is clear: make cryptocurrency accessible for everyone. He pointed out that most blockchain solutions today only serve a niche group. He believes the real potential of crypto lies in enabling seamless, everyday transactions—similar to using a credit card. Whether it’s a retiree or someone unfamiliar with digital wallets, the goal is to make crypto intuitive and stress-free.
What Are RYO Coin and RYO-CHAN?
Anthony introduced two core pillars of the ecosystem he’s building:
- RYO Coin: A consumer-focused cryptocurrency meant for daily use.
- RYO-CHAN: A meme-inspired token that goes beyond hype, offering AI-powered smart contract analysis, portfolio tracking, and real-time risk alerts—tools that make navigating crypto safer and more transparent.
The emphasis is on utility and long-term relevance, setting RYO-CHAN apart from other meme tokens in the space.
The Evolution of RYO Coin
Interestingly, Anthony didn’t initially plan to enter the blockchain space. While running his company in Japan, he realized the need to accept Bitcoin as a payment method. That experience revealed broader opportunities, leading him to create RYO Coin—a cryptocurrency rooted in customer needs and focused on usability and simplicity from day one.
Building a Full Ecosystem
RYO isn’t just about coins and tokens. It’s evolving into a full ecosystem, including:
- Life Wallet: A super app combining crypto transactions with messaging functionality.
- Licensed Exchange: Supporting ATM withdrawals using crypto across Japan.
- Global Mall and Payment Infrastructure: Helping users integrate crypto into their daily purchases.
This infrastructure is designed to make crypto feel as natural as traditional banking tools.
Community and Loyalty
Anthony also highlighted the importance of community. He shared insights into "Ryonins", a program designed to reward early supporters of RYO-CHAN. These contributors help spread awareness and provide valuable feedback. Their role is essential in building trust and long-term commitment to the project.
Now that the foundation is strong in Japan, Anthony’s team is focused on expanding globally—positioning RYO as a major player in the international digital currency landscape.
Innovation in AI and Gaming
The conversation revealed more exciting developments ahead, including:
- AI Companions: Personal digital agents that offer investment insights and monitor crypto trends.
- RYO-CHAN Adventures: A gamified platform where players can earn and use RYO-CHAN tokens through real-world value creation.
These features blend technology, entertainment, and financial education in an innovative way.
A Lesson for Marketers and Entrepreneurs
Anthony’s approach offers a key takeaway for marketers and tech entrepreneurs: build around user needs first, not the technology. Innovation should reduce friction, not create it. The goal should be making blockchain invisible—just another seamless part of daily life, like Wi-Fi or GPS.
Why This Matters
RYO’s evolution is part of a larger shift in Web3—from speculation to real-world application. Through its AI tools, community initiatives, and strong design principles, RYO aims to make blockchain technology more human-centric and impactful.
RYO at BFC 2024
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
[0:55] What is RYO-Chan, and what inspired its creation?
[03:2] Can you share the vision behind the RYO platform and its token within the broader ecosystem?
[07:13] For those interested in getting RYO, RYO Coin, the live wallet, or RYO-Chan — what are the steps to get started?
[08:47] You mentioned LifeWallet is launching globally and offers unique features like sending crypto via chat. Can you explain more about how this works?
[11:53] Crypto can still feel intimidating to many. One utility of RYO-Chan is the AI companion—can you explain what it does and how it helps?
[13:32] How does the AI-powered contract analysis help users identify and avoid scams like rug pulls?
[16:49] Community building is a big part of RYO. Can you explain the strategy behind RYOnin and the early supporter concept linked to RYO-Chan?
[21:39] What marketing strategies are currently working best for RYO to engage and grow your community?
[25:03] What advice would you give to Web3 marketers when explaining projects like RYO—should it be about telling simple, relatable stories?
[32:39] Any final thoughts you'd like to leave with the audience?
NOTABLE QUOTES
“We need to start thinking like the masses and addressing the needs of the masses, not the needs of the blockchain world or the blockchain space or the crypto world. That population is very small in relation to the rest of the world, so we're making it simple for grandma to do it, and if grandma to do it can do it, then anybody can do it.”
"Blockchain isn't just a technology, it's a paradigm shift in how we think about ownership and value transfer. The gap between early adopters and the masses is closing faster than people realize."
"The future of crypto adoption isn't about making people understand the technology—it's about making the technology invisible while delivering tangible benefits.”
"Financial literacy in the digital age means understanding not just how money works, but how value is created, transferred, and preserved in a tokenized world."
"The mistake most people make is thinking blockchain is about currency. It's really about creating systems of trust where none existed before."
"Traditional financial systems were built for a world that no longer exists. Blockchain and crypto are building for the world that's emerging."
MENTIONED RESOURCES
RYO Coin: https://ryocoin.com/
RYO Chan: https://ryochan.com/
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