A DAO proposal to hand over CryptoPunks IP to the community is gaining traction amid mounting concern about Yuga Labs’ alleged objectives.
The CryptoPunks community is up in arms over claims that Yuga Labs is considering selling the intellectual property (IP) rights to the CryptoPunks non-fungible token (NFT) collection.
The story, which began with a Jan. 14 post on X by Azuki researcher Wale.moca, has sparked outrage among fans and industry figures.
I'm now confident enough to share it with y'all after hearing it from several sources close to the matter:
Yuga Labs might be in the process of selling the CryptoPunks IP.
They bought the IP + more than 400 CryptoPunk NFTs from Larva Labs back in March 2022.
Who is the buyer?…
— wale.moca 🐳 (@waleswoosh) January 14, 2025
According to Wale.moca, “several sources close to the matter” have suggested that Yuga Labs may be “in the process” of selling the CryptoPunks IP. Yuga Labs purchased the intellectual property rights to 423 CryptoPunks NFTs from Larva Labs in March 2022.
Yuga’s response
Greg Solano, Yuga Labs’ co-founder, responded to the rumors on X. He stated:
“Many people have approached us, especially in recent months…” Does not mean we are accomplishing anything.”
Solano underlined that, while he did not rule out a settlement, any agreement must ensure a long-term good impact for CryptoPunks.
a lot of people have approached us, esp last few months
doesn’t mean we are doing anything
would only ever do a deal if it we felt very confident it would be long term extremely +EV for punks
my biz and life are nfts
not going to take a deal for money if I feel like it hurts…
— Garga.eth (Greg Solano) (@CryptoGarga) January 15, 2025
Solano wrote: “My business and life are NFTs.” “I won’t take a deal for money if it harms the asset’s legacy. Some punks may think yuga bad.” “Whoever owns punks must have an iron stomach and be willing to basically lock up and throw away the key.”
