Believe Launchpad Reverses Listing Policy After Community Backlash, Sparking Debate on Quality vs. Speed
Solana-based meme coin platform Believe has reversed a major policy change just hours after introducing it, following strong community pushback. The move has sparked renewed discussion around how to balance decentralization, project quality, and fair access in the rapidly growing meme coin space.
A Sudden Shift in Listing Strategy
On May 22, Believe announced it would pause automatic token listings through its Launchcoin account and instead implement a manual review process. The move was framed as a step toward higher quality standards, akin to Apple’s App Store review model. Under the plan, projects would be required to apply through Believe’s website and undergo a vetting process before launching.
The platform also introduced a “Verified” tag to replace the previous “Featured” label. While not a full endorsement, the new tag aimed to distinguish projects that demonstrated genuine effort or utility.
However, just two hours later, Believe made an abrupt U-turn. The team reinstated instant listings, citing community feedback and market dynamics. At the same time, it introduced a new rule: projects with no active or upcoming product, or those seen as purely extractive, will not allow creators to claim fees. These decisions will be guided by community input, with plans to formalize the mechanism in future platform updates.
Market Impact and Community Reaction
Believe’s pivot highlights the tension between scaling fast and maintaining project integrity. The platform has seen rapid adoption, with over 400,000 traders and a total trading volume of $3.1 billion, according to Dune Analytics. It commands 22.9% of daily active addresses in the Solana meme coin space, second only to rival Pump.fun.
However, the launchpad’s frequent policy changes have drawn criticism. On social platform X, users questioned whether the original “Featured” tag was used to favor insider projects. Others raised concerns about fairness and accessibility.
“Only good projects gonna get launched now but will also be sniped to shit by 2-3 people,” one user noted, pointing to fears of whales dominating new listings.
The reliance on community feedback as a form of governance has also raised eyebrows. Without a transparent or enforceable system in place, critics warn that the platform risks becoming vulnerable to manipulation—a common challenge in fast-moving, hype-driven meme coin ecosystems.
Looking Ahead
Believe’s attempt to refine its listing policy reflects the broader growing pains of platforms operating at the intersection of decentralized finance and viral, community-driven assets. While its reversal may satisfy users eager for quick listings, the long-term balance between accessibility and accountability remains a work in progress.