The growing influence of venture funds like Paradigm poses a significant threat to the ecosystem of the second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, according to developer Federico Carrone.
I’ve been saying for the past two years that the influence of @paradigm within Ethereum could become a relevant tail risk for the ecosystem. I believe this will become increasingly clear to everyone in the months ahead.
Some people think I have a personal issue with them. I… https://t.co/LH99Cvmbqo
— Fede’s intern 🥊 (@fede_intern) October 19, 2025
“For two years now, I’ve been talking about the growing pressure of Paradigm on Ethereum as a potentially serious risk. In the coming months, this will become evident to everyone. My criticism is not motivated by personal bias. The company has undeniably created valuable solutions for the community, which sets it apart from other funds. But my stance remains unchanged,” he wrote.
Carrone emphasized that the issue is not limited to Paradigm. He stated that any excessive involvement in open-source projects shifts priorities from long-term vision to corporate interests.
One example is the announced Paradigm stablecoin platform Tempo, valued at $5 billion. Stripe participated in its development and will directly control the network after its launch.
“It is important to recognize the fundamental difference in motivations: venture funds are inherently aimed at maximizing profits for their investors. Their success is measured by financial returns and increased influence. There is nothing wrong with that. […] However, Ethereum, as a decentralized ecosystem, must consciously limit its technological dependence on any fund pursuing a multifaceted strategic game,” he noted.
Community Reaction
Most users supported Carrone’s position. One user called corporations a “mafia,” whose threat continues to grow.
“This is one of the most accurate analyses of Ethereum’s political side in recent times. […] Yes, [Paradigm] created real tools. But the deeper question is: who determines the direction of public goods development when financed by private capital?” — noted a community member under the pseudonym cryptopsihoz.
Some also hope that the non-profit Ethereum Foundation “will soon realize the problem.” In their view, the current situation appears alarming.
Back in June 2024, Paradigm introduced its first client for the execution layer of Ethereum called Reth 1.0. At the time of writing, its share stands at 5.3%.