BitMEX co-founder Arthur Hayes has made a bold prediction, stating that CryptoPunks are poised to outperform Ethereum (ETH) in terms of investment returns during the current market cycle. Hayes' rationale centers on the inherent human desire for status and the role NFTs, particularly CryptoPunks, play in fulfilling that desire in the digital realm. He argues that ETH holders, flush with gains, will actively seek ways to display their newfound wealth and influence, turning to NFTs as a means of signaling their status on the internet. "NFTs are a means of displaying one's status on the internet. It's like a 'status game'," Hayes explained. CryptoPunks, as one of the earliest and most recognizable NFT collections, hold significant cultural cachet within the crypto community. Their high price floor and established provenance make them a highly visible symbol of digital wealth, attracting investors looking to showcase their position. This increased demand, fueled by ETH holders, could potentially drive CryptoPunks prices significantly higher than ETH itself, according to Hayes' prediction. ```