HODL Day: When the term "HODL" was first popularized
The term “HODL” originated from a misspelled word in a forum post and has since become a celebrated part of Bitcoin culture, representing the strategy of holding onto digital currency rather than selling it. The history of “HODL Day” can be traced back to December 18, 2013, during a tumultuous time for Bitcoin. After reaching an all-time high of over $1,150, Bitcoin’s price plummeted to around $522, losing over half its value in just two weeks.
On that very day, a user named GameKyuubi took to the bitcointalk.org forum and made a post titled “I AM HODLING.” In a somewhat inebriated state, GameKyuubi expressed his frustration with his poor trading skills and his decision to hold his Bitcoin through the market’s ups and downs. He wrote, “You only sell in a bear market if you are a good day trader or an illusioned noob. The people in between hold.” Despite the misspelling, the term “HODL” resonated with the community and quickly became a rallying cry for long-term believers in Bitcoin.
“HODL Day” is not an official holiday but is remembered by the community as the day when the term was coined, symbolizing the steadfastness of Bitcoin supporters even during volatile market conditions. It’s celebrated informally by those who appreciate the backstory and the sentiment of holding onto their investments with conviction, regardless of market trends. The story of “HODL” is a testament to the culture and humor within the bitcoin community, as well as the enduring nature of internet memes that capture a moment in time and a shared experience.