What makes a coin a 'meme coin' versus a regular cryptocurrency?

Meme coins are cryptocurrencies created primarily as jokes or based on internet memes, rather than serving a specific technological purpose. Examples include Dogecoin (based on a dog meme) and Shiba Inu. Unlike regular cryptocurrencies designed to solve problems—Bitcoin for payments or Ethereum for smart contracts—meme coins typically lack utility or real-world application. They often have large, enthusiastic communities and are highly volatile, with prices driven by social media hype rather than fundamental value. While some meme coins have developed actual use cases over time, they generally carry higher risk. Investors should understand that meme coins are speculative and can lose value rapidly if community interest fades.