TechFlow news, February 11 — CNN has published an in-depth investigative article on the "Bored Ape" BAYC titled "A Twisted Story of Celebrity Marketing, Backroom Deals, and Allegations of Racism," stating that blockchain data shows MoonPay paid high prices for BAYC NFTs and then transferred these NFTs for free to so-called celebrity wallets. Subsequently, the celebrities would publicly "thank" MoonPay on social media, serving a marketing purpose.
Several former MoonPay employees said many celebrities may not have actually paid for their BAYC purchases, as there is no on-chain evidence to support such transactions. Instead, on-chain data reveals that a MoonPay wallet, "MoonPayHQ," has spent at least $25 million on NFTs, with 60% (approximately $15 million) spent specifically on BAYC. Hollywood agent and MoonPay/Yuga investor Oseary stated, "No celebrity paid to join BAYC, and Yuga Labs never gave away any Apes." As of now, Yuga Labs has declined CNN's request for an official interview.Original link
