‘If you want to be great, make enemies’: Solana economist Max Resnick

CoinTelegraph

by Andrew Fenton

January 21, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Max Resnick, a prominent figure in the crypto and blockchain space, has gained notoriety for his unyielding stance on cryptographic principles and his willingness to challenge established norms. Known for his controversial yet impactful approach, Resnick emphasizes that pursuing greatness often requires taking bold stands that may alienate others. His journey began during an internship at the Trump White House, where he observed firsthand the inefficiencies of government structures, sparking his interest in improving systems through innovative solutions. Resnick's influence extends to major blockchain projects like Ethereum and Solana. He played a pivotal role in advocating for Ethereum to prioritize Layer 1 (L1) scaling over Layer 2 (L2) solutions, which he deemed "parasitic." His campaign led to significant shifts in Ethereum's strategy, even though some criticized him for stirring dissent within the community. Resnick's philosophy is encapsulated in his statement, "If you want to be great, make enemies," reflecting his belief that meaningful change often incurs opposition. Currently, as the lead economist at Anza, which develops Solana's main client Agave, Resnick continues to drive improvements. His focus on reducing MEV ( Miner Extractable Value) and enhancing network efficiency has contributed to Solana's growth. Despite moving from Ethereum to Solana, he remains an influential voice in crypto circles, advising Ethereum developers and engaging in

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Originally published on CoinTelegraph on 1/21/2026