Phase I of the platform will feature Bracket’s liquidity program, offering users the opportunity to stake Liquid Staking Tokens (LSTs) and Liquid Restaking Tokens (LRTs) to earn rewards and power the next generation of DeFi. 

Founding and Evolution

Founded by a team with deep experience in both cryptocurrency and traditional finance, Bracket was established by Mike Wasyl and his Co-Founders Jason Glazier and Pelli Wang. Their backgrounds include work at Consensys and major financial firms like D.E. Shaw & Co. and Bloomberg.

The team initially focused on developing derivatives products aimed at providing sophisticated trading strategies for managing volatility. However, market events in 2022 severely affected liquidity, which prompted Bracket to pivot towards a growing area in DeFi: Liquid Staking.

“When FTX collapsed, liquidity was drained from options and all derivatives-related markets. Even now, it’s surprising that the funds haven’t returned in significant amounts. This event really hurt the industry, particularly affecting liquidity on the derivatives side. Perpetual contracts became the dominant tool, with other categories shrinking significantly. This situation made us reconsider our approach and think about how we could expand our target market,” Wasyl recalls.

Wasyl explained they recognized a growing demand for passive investment strategies, particularly involving liquid staking tokens. This has become a major trend in DeFi as more investors seek stable and predictable returns. The change has received positive feedback as interest in LSTs and LRTs grows, with major players like Lido leading the charge.

“This led to the emergence of products like EigenLayer, which sought to capitalize on this interest by providing additional value to LST holders. Now, we also see Liquid Restaking Tokens (LRTs), which essentially take the interest earned from LSTs and offer additional rewards, such as points, to attract users’ attention,” he adds.

The Platform’s Launch and Features

Bracket aims to make these types of assets more accessible and efficient for users through their platform. They have developed brktETH, a token representing a composite of underlying Liquid Restaking Tokens (LRTs) and Liquid Staking Tokens (LSTs).

This means users don’t need to choose between different assets; they can simply hold brktETH, which offers diversified exposure, fungibility, and greater capital efficiency. Users can then deploy brktETH in various DeFi opportunities, including those provided by Bracket and potentially by other industry players. 

“The aim is to create a high-quality asset backed by a treasury of LSTs and LRTs, which can be used in passive earning strategies and, eventually, in a more comprehensive marketplace with active opportunities,” Wasyl explains.

Bracket is launching in three phases, each designed to enhance user engagement and expand the platform’s capabilities. The first phase, live from July 31, introduces a staking liquidity program where participants can stake their LSTs to earn Bracket [BARS], which are loyalty points. These points serve as an early engagement tool, allowing users to participate in the platform’s growth and earn more rewards as the platform matures. 

“In the DeFi market, a successful product must have a strong liquidity-building program. This is essential because liquidity drives interest, and interest, in turn, fuels liquidity. This is a key lesson we’ve learned in developing our platform. We’ve prioritized building liquidity,” Wasyl adds.

In the second phase, once the platform officially launches, users will receive brktETH tokens. The underlying LST and LRT collateral backing brktETH are securely held in a treasury, but users can withdraw the underlying collateral assets if they choose. brktETH can then be used to enter passive earning strategies, designed to be as straightforward as possible — similar to user-friendly traditional financial apps like Betterment. Bracket aims to eliminate the cumbersome spreadsheets and tables often associated with DeFi, offering a more tailored onboarding experience instead.

The details of the third phase are TBA, but it will include more community programs and additional ways for users to engage with Bracket.

A User-Centric Approach

One of the biggest challenges in DeFi is creating a seamless user experience that balances sophistication with simplicity. Many platforms struggle to provide a user-friendly interface while maintaining the complex functionalities that advanced users require.

Bracket distinguishes itself in the crowded DeFi space through its user-friendly platform, designed to accommodate both beginners and more advanced users. 

“Currently, DeFi is heavily dominated by high-risk, speculative activities, often referred to as ‘degen’ stuff. However, this is set to change. We want to demystify DeFi for our users,” Wasyl says. “Our goal is to make it accessible to everyone, regardless of their level of technical expertise.”

To achieve this, Bracket has invested heavily in user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design. The platform to be released in Phase II will offer clear, easy-to-follow instructions and a clean, uncluttered interface. This approach helps new users start quickly while providing advanced features for more experienced investors. The introduction of Bracket [BARS]  will also add an element of gamification, making the staking process more engaging and rewarding.

Bracket places a strong emphasis on community engagement. The team actively seeks user feedback to improve the platform and its features. The collaborative approach has helped build a loyal user base and ensures that the platform continues to meet the needs of its community​​.

Addressing Risk Concerns

Wasyl notes the DeFi sector currently lacks sophistication and security. People often face two main issues: a lack of transparency about who manages their funds and where their funds are located, and no guarantees about the security of their investments. This makes it hard to trust the platforms they’re using.

While there are more advanced platforms, like Sommelier, which offer better security measures and protect against loss, they are often too complex for non-technical strategy managers to interact with. These managers are typically skilled at managing strategies but not necessarily at working with the necessary on-chain infrastructure.

To address this, Bracket aims to build a sophisticated infrastructure with strong security guarantees. The system will allow strategy managers to work with the platform with minimal technical effort. Such  infrastructure is crucial as the market matures and more institutional investors enter the space.

“For example, if funds or strategy managers have specific requirements, Bracket can provide the necessary infrastructure and whitelisted protocols, ensuring that all activities stay within set boundaries,” Wasyl explains.

The regulatory frameworks for DeFi platforms are complex and constantly changing. Wasyl is confident that Bracket, with backing from major investors like Binance Labs, is well-equipped to handle these challenges. He noted that while overregulation can hinder innovation, clear and balanced regulation can provide much-needed stability and clarity for the market.

Partnerships and Collaborations

Looking forward, Bracket plans to expand its platform with more complex trading strategies and additional features. The company is also in discussions with several leading LST and LRT protocols to integrate their assets into Bracket’s platform. 

These protocols are eager to enhance the utility of their assets, recognizing that these tokens represent some of the best high-quality liquid assets available. They generate earnings directly on the blockchain through block rewards, providing exposure to Ethereum’s ecosystem. This capability is incredibly valuable, as it allows stacking on top of these assets for additional returns.

“Many of these protocols are looking to partner with us because they want their assets to be used in DeFi. Given that the earning rates across the board are similar — around 3% currently — these protocols are keen to distinguish themselves and offer more to their users. Our goal is to work collaboratively with everyone in the space, and we have a number of partnerships in the works that we’ll be announcing over the next couple of weeks,” Wasyl shares.

As for future developments, Wasyl is excited about the increasing modularity in the DeFi ecosystem. He notes a growing trend where users can combine different components, such as lending protocols, decentralized exchanges (DEXs), and various assets, to create sustainable earning strategies. Traditional finance (TradFi) often lacks transparency and flexibility, as asset managers typically operate behind the scenes. In DeFi, however, everything is visible on-chain, which provides greater transparency and trust.

The next step is ensuring sufficient liquidity to support these strategies, enabling users to stack native rewards without worrying about transparency issues. The modular nature of DeFi, combined with Layer-2 solutions that reduce transaction costs, is incredibly promising.

These innovations make it easier for users to maximize rewards on high-quality assets, which is especially important in today’s inflationary environment. People are looking for ways to make their money work harder for them, and Bracket aims to provide that opportunity.

The post Bracket Goes Live: A New Staking Experience appeared first on BeInCrypto.

In a recent conversation with BeInCrypto, Evgeny Vahteev, the project’s Chief Executive Officer, shared insights into this journey. Here’s a detailed look at the transformation and future plans of Guru Network.

From DexGuru to Guru Network

Initially, DexGuru aimed to provide a unified platform that combined real-time trading with in-depth analytics catering specifically to the DeFi community. This approach offered users both trading and analytical tools within a single interface, which was a novel concept during the early days of decentralized exchanges like Uniswap V2 and emerging blockchains such as BNB and Polygon.

Several key factors influenced the transition from a trading terminal to an AI-driven network. The need to adapt to market changes and the realization of the potential for broader applications of their technology were significant drivers. During the “DeFi summer,” DexGuru saw significant success, but the subsequent market downturns, such as the collapses of Terra/Luna and FTX, necessitated a pivot in their strategy.

“Over time, we recognized that our real strength was in providing a comprehensive toolkit for developers. We leveraged our existing technology to develop B2B solutions, including a data warehouse and block explorer tools, which laid the groundwork for more advanced AI-driven features,” Vahteev shares. 

These additions laid the groundwork for a broader development platform, which eventually became the Guru Network. The new platform focuses on multi-chain AI orchestration, enabling more efficient and automated processes within the DeFi ecosystem.

The new GPT-powered DYOR assistants are already available on DexGuru V2 and are spreading to other ecosystem apps. The launch of DexGuru V2 with advanced Web3 automation features highlights their commitment to providing powerful tools and seamless experiences for their users.

Differentiating Through AI-Driven Solutions

Guru Network distinguishes itself from other DeFi platforms through its unique integration of AI and blockchain technology, creating an advanced orchestration layer that automates complex processes. Unlike traditional platforms that may focus solely on trading or analytics, it provides a holistic solution that includes data-aware AI agents, multi-chain orchestration, and a comprehensive developer toolkit.

This approach enables seamless automation of tasks, reducing the need for manual intervention and allowing users to execute sophisticated trading strategies and workflows with ease. However, building and expanding the multi-chain AI orchestration layer came with several big challenges, especially in terms of technical difficulty and integration.

“One major hurdle was ensuring reliable and efficient communication across multiple blockchain networks. This required the team to manage and synchronize data and processes in a decentralized environment, which is inherently complex and prone to issues such as latency and data consistency,” Vahteev recalls.

Another hurdle was integrating AI and machine learning models into the blockchain framework. This required developing strong algorithms that could handle large amounts of data and ensuring these models could work well within the decentralized system. Additionally, the team had to address security concerns by conducting thorough audits and reviews to protect the orchestration layer from potential vulnerabilities and attacks.

Automation Capabilities and Security

The platform’s use of Web3/AI for process automation, such as the Blockchain Business Process Automation (BBPA) engine, also sets it apart. This engine utilized various on-chain AI and off-chain activities, providing higher efficiency and reliability. The BBPA can automate many DeFi tasks, making them more efficient and reducing the need for manual work.

“For example, it can automate trading strategies by executing predefined buy and sell orders based on market conditions and user settings, allowing users to implement complex trading strategies without constantly monitoring the market. The engine can also automate liquidity management tasks by monitoring liquidity pools across different decentralized exchanges and adjusting the user’s positions to optimize returns. This includes adding or removing liquidity, rebalancing portfolios, and harvesting yield farming rewards,” Vahteev shares.

Additionally, the BBPA can handle periodic routines and recurring tasks like staking and claiming rewards, rebalancing portfolios, and executing regular trades. These automation features not only streamline operations but also reduce the risk of human error, providing users with a more reliable and efficient way to manage their DeFi activities.

Ensuring the security and reliability of these automated processes is a top priority for Guru Network’s team. The platform uses strong security protocols from its partners to ensure a multi-layered defense. The decentralized model increases security by distributing it. Every component undergoes thorough audits before being deployed to protect against vulnerabilities. 

Collaboration as Key to Growth 

Community feedback plays a crucial role in the development of Guru. The platform actively encourages user suggestions and integrates them into its development roadmap. Building an open dialogue through forums, AMAs, and social media, helps the team to make sure the platform develops in line with user needs. 

New users can get started with Guru Network by visiting their detailed documentation, which provides step-by-step guides and resources. These can also be found in the Lite Paper, White Paper, and within the Github repository of the project. Additionally, community channels on Discord and Twitter offer support and updates, giving users all the tools and information they need to navigate and succeed within the ecosystem.

Guru Network has formed partnerships with a diverse range of partners, including big names like Paraswap, 1inch, Conduit, and Subsquid. Collaborations with exciting projects built on the Guru Framework, like PixelPact, further enhance the ecosystem. 

“Collaboration is key to driving innovation and growth in the DeFi space. Guru Network addresses scalability and reliability by building its infrastructure layer, which empowers individual agents to operate independently, supporting a wide range of products and features across the ecosystem. We aim to create a thriving community of developers and users who can contribute to and benefit from advancements in AI and blockchain technology,” Vahteev states.

The next quarter will see the rollout of exciting new features, including Web3 automations and bridging solutions for seamless cross-chain operations, an AI rewards program to incentivize innovation, and the migration of products from testnet to mainnet. The launch of the Guru Smart Wallet in beta for NFT holders will add another layer of convenience and functionality to the Guru Network experience.

Existing listings on CEXs like BitMart and MexC, along with planned ones, are expected to significantly boost the visibility and accessibility of Guru Network. This increased exposure will attract a wider audience, potentially leading to greater adoption and a more vibrant community. While specific details cannot be disclosed due to NDAs, exciting activities are planned around future listings to celebrate with the community and make a splash in the market.

The post From Trading Terminal to AI-Driven Platform: How DexGuru Became the Guru Network appeared first on BeInCrypto.

Jiritsu, a blockchain technology company that specializes in decentralized and verifiable computing, addresses key issues in RWA management, striving for transparency and efficiency.

The Foundation of Jiritsu’s Technology

Jiritsu’s journey began with a team of experts in physics, mathematics, cryptography, and computer science. Initially focused on AI projects, they transitioned to blockchain technology, aiming to overcome significant limitations.

“We’ve identified a broad problem with off-chain verifiable compute due to the limitations of blockchain, such as slow computation, lack of access to external data, and no automation. While smart contracts can automate some processes, they can’t be event-driven. They can’t react to events in real time by saying, ‘If this happens, do that,” Guedalia explains.

To address this issue, a solution called the ZK MPC Cloud was created. Unlike ZK proofs or MPC in the sense of multisig wallets, this system combines zero-knowledge privacy-preserving techniques with multi-party computation (MPC). In this setup, multiple nodes (computers) carry out the same workflow in parallel.

For example, if there are three nodes, each performs the same tasks simultaneously. Each node logs its work, and upon completion, the results and workflow are compiled. This workflow can range from simple data retrieval to complex calculations, event monitoring, or obtaining information from oracles, essentially handling any computational task imaginable. The nodes then hash the log of their work to create a proof of action, achieving consensus on the log.

“This proof is recorded on our Layer-1 blockchain that functions as a ledger or registry. For example, we can verify gold sitting inside a vault at Brinks, providing daily verification rather than quarterly audits,” Guedalia adds. 

The ZK MPC nodes have been live for nearly two years, operating millions of proofs. The Layer-1 blockchain, currently deployed on the Avalanche ecosystem, handles over $2 billion of verified assets on-chain. 

Practical Applications and Use Cases

Jiritsu’s architecture supports a broad range of use cases, making it versatile and adaptable to various industries. The system’s ability to log and verify actions on the blockchain provides a secure and transparent method for managing assets. This method is especially valuable in industries where trust and verification are paramount, such as finance, real estate, and supply chain management.

In the supply chain sector, Jiritsu’s technology can be used to track and verify the authenticity of goods. This capability is particularly useful for high-value items or products requiring stringent quality control. Logging each step of the supply chain on the blockchain ensures that products meet regulatory standards and are not tampered with during transit.

“My favorite application is in the supply chain sector because it captures immense value, and blockchain technology is crucial to this process. We’re actively involved in this area,” Guedalia notes. 

Another exciting application of Jiritsu’s technology is in the field of tokenized private equity. Private equity represents an $8 trillion market, typically operating on a 15-year cycle, making it quite illiquid for investors. These deals are often large-ticket investments, difficult for many to access.

Moreover, the current private equity system is highly inefficient. Large fund administrators, which manage back-office operations for numerous private equity firms and billions in assets, still rely on outdated methods like spreadsheets.

This results in frequent errors, such as misdirected funds, which could be avoided with smart contracts. Tokenizing these assets could provide much-needed liquidity, fractionalizing high-quality assets and making them accessible to a broader range of investors who previously couldn’t participate.

“Unlike money market funds and similar large-institutional assets, private equity firms — numbering around 2,000 — are individual businesses holding significant assets that could greatly benefit from moving on-chain. Conversations with portfolio managers at hedge funds and various private equity firms reveal a growing interest in tokenizing their assets, highlighting a trend that could democratize access to valuable investments,” Guedalia says. 

The inefficiencies of traditional systems highlight the blockchain’s advantages. Business logic can occur off-chain, but real-world value tokens need to be verifiable. Jiritsu has already implemented this with a fulfillment center for Amazon, managing $30 million in daily inventory.

Platform Scalability and Efficiency

Guedalia highlights the challenges of building a product for millions of users, stressing out the need for robust and scalable technology. He points out that creating an experience for millions, or even tens of millions, of users requires a different approach and stresses the importance of ensuring their technology can support this scale.

One of the key factors in achieving scalability is the ability to handle a large number of transactions simultaneously. Jiritsu’s architecture is designed to support high transaction volumes without compromising on security or efficiency. This capability is crucial for industries like finance, where transaction speed and reliability are critical.

Unlike other blockchain systems that might be overwhelmed by resource-intensive projects, Jiritsu ensures users can always read or write their proofs efficiently.

“The ZK-MPC nodes link the blockchain with external workflows, making it easy to use in real-world applications. We aim for blockchain transactions to show the true value behind each token, preventing them from losing worth. This keeps tokens reliable and valuable, accurately representing the real-world assets they stand for”, Guedalia explains.

The focus on efficiency is also evident in their approach to gas fees. Jiritsu’s infrastructure operates with a fixed cost, making gas fees for running it free. They don’t use their token as a gas token to avoid creating an unstable economy. The price of their token does not affect the cost of writing or reading data, making the system very scalable. 

“The gas for our infrastructure is free, and our token is designed to secure the network without affecting transaction costs,” he adds. “The system is also well-protected because it can only be accessed through the ZK-MPC nodes, preventing competition or service interruptions.”

Regulation Importance for the Sector

Guedalia believes that the issue isn’t the regulations themselves but the lack of clarity around them. This uncertainty can lead to two outcomes: people either engage in unethical behavior, thinking they can avoid consequences, or they avoid taking action because they aren’t sure what’s permissible. Once regulators provide clarity, progress will accelerate quickly. 

Fortunately, the work Jiritsu is doing is straightforward. Guedalia mentions Jiritsu’s strict adherence to compliance, working closely with lawyers to meet all regulatory requirements. 

“We’re not degens; it’s just not in our DNA. We’re innovators and disruptors in technology, and we’re in blockchain because we see it as a transformative infrastructure. We believe you can bring value to both retail and institutions without doing anything shady or non-compliant. Our goal is to create significant value for all our contributors and stakeholders,” he says.

With the launch of money market funds by industry giants like BlackRock, Fidelity, and Franklin Templeton, along with JP Morgan’s activities, Guedalia believes these developments will significantly influence the creation of a more stable regulatory framework.

He feels confident that such big players can’t be ignored, marking a decisive shift in the industry. “I don’t think we’re going back,” he says, expecting the momentum to continue driving adoption.

Jiritsu’s Partnerships and Future Plans

Jiritsu has established key partnerships to secure its platform’s place and expand its reach. They have integrated with Avalanche and the BlackRock infrastructure and are working with major gold-backed token providers. 

In addition to their current partnerships, Jiritsu is actively seeking new collaborations to expand their ecosystem. 

“We want to integrate with institutional infrastructure so people can use those assets as collateral. We’ve announced several upcoming initiatives, including partnerships with gold-backed tokens and expanding our work in supply chain management. We’re also in discussions with auditing firms like KPMG, EY, and Deloitte to have them become node operators, which will bring more confidence to the network,” Guedalia shares.

User adoption is another important area for the project. Guedalia acknowledges there is still a lot of work to be done in educating users about the benefits of tokenization and blockchain technology: to address this, Jiritsu is investing in educational initiatives to help users understand how to use their platform and the advantages it offers, and ensuring easy integration with various blockchains to simplify the process for users to register and claim tokens.

For non-technical users and traditional finance investors, Jiritsu has taken specific steps to make the platform user-friendly. Retail users can buy tokens, log in with their wallet on Jiritsu’s DApp, and verify their assets with access to all proofs, making the process straightforward.

For institutions, Jiritsu’s integrations are simple, with the company handling most of the work. The focus is on establishing a dialogue to help institutions understand the benefits. Additionally, Jiritsu has announced an exciting project that allows for the collateralization of real-world asset (RWA) tokens to gain liquidity. They are also working on several innovative DePin projects. Jiritsu strives to make all their APIs as straightforward as possible.

Looking ahead, Guedalia is confident that Jiritsu will be a key player in the tokenization movement. He’s optimistic about blockchain’s potential to transform various industries. 

“Tokenizing everything is not just a trend; it’s the future. Real estate, supply chain, private equity—these are areas where blockchain can provide immense value,” he predicts.

The post Jacob Guedalia on Jiritsu’s Role in the Future of Real-World Asset Tokenization appeared first on BeInCrypto.

His goal? To make advanced AI tools accessible in the Web3 world. Ilan explains how ChainGPT carefully selects new crypto projects, focusing on unique technology, market needs, skilled teams, and top-notch security. Let’s get into it!

Introduction and Background of Ilan Rakhmanov

Q: Before starting ChainGPT, you already had AI experience (MarcoIsland.io). Can you share a bit about your journey and what led you to create ChainGPT?

A: Definitely! My passion for AI started with MarcoIsland.io, where I got to dive deep into building intelligent systems that could make complex processes simpler. Seeing how powerful AI could be, I was inspired to create ChainGPT to bring these capabilities to the Web3 space. Our tools, like the AI-powered trading assistant and smart contract generator, aim to make advanced technology accessible to everyone.

Q: You are a strategic advisor for numerous crypto projects. What key factors do you consider when evaluating the potential of a new crypto project?

A: When I look at a new crypto project, I focus on a few key things:

1. Innovative Technology: Is it solving a real problem in a unique way?
2. Market Fit: Is there a demand for what they’re offering?
3. Team Competence: Do they have the right skills and experience?
4. Security Measures: Are they serious about security?
5. Community Engagement: Is there an active and supportive community around them?
6. Narrative: Is this product or project within the current narrative? 

Key Evaluation Criteria of Web3 Projects

Q: Can you walk us through the evaluation process that the team at ChainGPT follows to select projects for the launchpad?

A: Sure! Our process involves several steps:

1. Initial Screening: We review the project’s concept, whitepaper, and team background.
2. Technical Review: Our experts dive into the tech stack and check its feasibility.
3. Market Analysis: We look at market demand and potential user base.
4. Security Audit: We conduct thorough audits to identify any vulnerabilities.
5. Community Feedback: We assess interest and feedback from the community.

Q: How do you assess the technical feasibility and innovation potential of a project’s underlying (AI) technology?

A: We dig into their technical documentation, prototype, or MVP to get a sense of the project’s foundation. Our AI specialists then evaluate how innovative their approach is and how it stacks up against existing solutions. We also look at scalability, performance, and how well it can integrate with other systems.

Team Assessment

Q: How important is the founding team in your evaluation process? What qualities do you look for in a team?

A: The founding team is incredibly important. We look for:

1. Expertise: Relevant experience and technical skills.
2. Vision: A clear understanding and passion for their project’s goals.
3. Track Record: Previous successes and learnings from failures.
4. Cohesion: Ability to work well together and resolve conflicts.
5. Adaptability: Openness to feedback and willingness to pivot if necessary.

Q: Can you share an example of a project where the team’s background was pivotal in your decision?

A: Sure! Engines of Fury is a great example. Saulius Aleksa and his team had a strong background in gaming and Web2 development. We knew this experience would be invaluable as they transitioned to Web3. The team’s professionalism, initiative, and honest work ethic made a significant impact, helping them succeed and stand out in the crowded space of gaming projects​​.

Market Potential

Q: How do you determine the market potential and demand for a new crypto project?

A: We conduct thorough market research, including competitor analysis, user surveys, and industry trends. We also consider the project’s unique value proposition and how well it addresses existing market gaps.

Q: What role do market trends and user needs play in your evaluation process?

A: Market trends and user needs are crucial. We stay updated on the latest trends in the blockchain and AI sectors and prioritize projects that align with these trends. User needs guide us in identifying projects that offer practical and in-demand solutions.

Security Measures

Q: How does ChainGPT ensure the security of the projects it evaluates and supports?

A: We take security very seriously. We conduct rigorous smart contract audits, implement best practices for security in development and deployment, and continuously monitor projects post-launch to detect and mitigate any emerging threats​​.

Due Diligence

Q: What steps are involved in the due diligence process for a project before it is launched on the ChainGPT platform?

A: Our due diligence process includes:

1. Document Verification: Ensuring all submitted documents are authentic.
2. Background Checks: Investigate the project’s team and advisors.
3. Technical Audits: Comprehensive technical evaluation and security audits.
4. Market Validation: Assessing market potential and community interest.

Q: How do you verify the authenticity and credibility of a project’s claims and documentation?

A: We cross-verify information through independent sources, conduct interviews with the team, and use third-party verification services for document authenticity.

Risk Management

Q: How does ChainGPT approach risk management when evaluating new projects?

A: We take a proactive approach to risk management:

1. Risk Assessment: Identifying potential risks during the evaluation process.
2. Mitigation Strategies: Implementing strategies to mitigate identified risks.
3. Regular Reviews: Conducting periodic reviews and updates to our risk management protocols.

Regulatory Compliance

Q: How do you ensure that the projects you support comply with regulatory requirements?

A: We work closely with legal experts to ensure all projects comply with relevant regulations. This includes KYC/AML procedures, legal audits, and ensuring transparency in all operations​​.

Community and Ecosystem

Q: How important is the community aspect for a new crypto project, and how do you evaluate it?

A: The community aspect is vital. We evaluate it by looking at:

1. Engagement Levels: Active participation in forums and social media.
2. Support: The strength and enthusiasm of the community backing the project.
3. Feedback: Constructive feedback and involvement in the project’s development.

Success Stories

Q: Can you share a success story of a project that was launched through ChainGPT and how your evaluation process contributed to its success?

A: Absolutely! One of our standout success stories is Solidus AI Tech. During their incubation phase, we provided extensive support, helping them refine their product and launch successfully. They managed to raise $4.45 million, achieve a 700% growth in social engagement, and establish 84 partnerships. Their token saw an impressive 41x return on investment at its peak. Our evaluation and continued support played a crucial role in their achievements.

Q: What lessons were learned from this project that you apply to future evaluations?

A: Key lessons from Solidus AI Tech include the importance of thorough technical validation, the value of a strong and engaged community, and the need for continuous innovation and adaptability. These insights help us refine our evaluation process and support other projects more effectively.

Challenges and Future

Q: What are some of the biggest challenges you face when evaluating crypto projects, and how do you overcome them?

A: Challenges include:

1. Technological Complexity: Overcome by leveraging expert knowledge and thorough technical evaluations.
2. Market Volatility: Mitigated through comprehensive market analysis and adaptable strategies.
3. Regulatory Uncertainty: Managed by staying informed on regulatory developments and working with legal experts.

Q: What advancements or trends do you believe will shape the way crypto projects are assessed and launched?

A: Future trends include increased use of AI for project evaluation, more sophisticated security protocols, and greater emphasis on regulatory compliance. Additionally, we anticipate a rise in community-driven project selection and funding mechanisms​​.

Final Thoughts

Ilan Rakhmanov’s journey from MarcoIsland.io to ChainGPT shows his dedication to merging AI with blockchain technology. Through ChainGPT, he’s making AI tools accessible to the Web3 community, setting new standards for project evaluation and support. 

His emphasis on innovative tech, market fit, and security ensures that only the most promising projects succeed. Ilan’s vision for the future, where AI plays a crucial role in crypto project assessment, showcases his forward-thinking approach. 

We would like to thank Ilan for this interview! To learn more about ChainGPT, make sure to check out their website.

The post Bridging AI and Blockchain: ChainGPT’s Ilan Rakhmanov on Project Evaluation and Success appeared first on BeInCrypto.

Tune.FM enables artists to publish their music for free while allowing listeners to pay directly, cutting out costly intermediaries and ensuring fair payments for the artists.

Antar’s Journey Through Music and Tech

Andrew Antar’s journey to founding Tune.FM is rooted in his diverse background in music and technology. A classically trained violinist since the age of four, he has won competitions and toured globally with orchestras. Antar has also collaborated with numerous bands and appeared on various recordings.

Simultaneously, he pursued a parallel career in technology, starting as a self-taught coder. This led to developing enterprise applications for companies like Comcast and Bank of America. Antar started in the cryptocurrency world in 2010 and managed a hedge fund for six years. This combination of skills and experiences led him to create Tune.FM, aiming to resolve the long-standing issues in the music industry.

Antar’s deep understanding of both music and technology gives him a unique perspective on the industry’s challenges and potential solutions. His experiences have shown him the persistent struggles artists face in monetizing their work.Despite massive changes in how people consume music, from CDs and LPs to digital downloads and streaming, artists have not seen financial rewards keep pace. Large rights holders and labels continue to dominate the industry, often at the expense of the artists themselves.

“Music is under-monetized. There are so many starving artists struggling to break out,” Antar said, reflecting on his lifelong involvement with musicians.

Having witnessed firsthand the various phases of the music industry’s evolution, Antar noted that the underlying issues of fair compensation and artist control have remained unaddressed. This insight was a key motivator in his decision to launch Tune.FM. By integrating blockchain technology, Antar built a platform that addresses these issues and empowers artists in unprecedented ways.

Tackling Industry Challenges

Tune.FM aims to tackle the main industry challenges by providing a new business model for music distribution. The JAM token, used on Tune.FM, enables micropayments that are processed instantly, allowing artists to get paid in real-time as their music is streamed. This contrasts sharply with the traditional model, where multiple intermediaries delay and dilute payments.

One of the major advantages of Tune.FM’s approach is its potential to level the playing field for independent artists. Removing intermediaries ensures the platform directs a larger share of the revenue directly to the artists. This is particularly beneficial for independent and emerging artists who often struggle to gain financial traction in the traditional music industry.

The platform also allows artists to provide unique experiences and exclusive content directly to their fans. They have the option to tokenize any creation, including unreleased music, albums, music videos, or photographs. Additionally, artists can combine these tokens with special experiences like backstage passes, VIP packages, or meet-and-greet opportunities.

“The ability to offer exclusive content and experiences is a game-changer for artists. It allows them to create a more personal and engaging relationship with their fans,” Antar says. “For example, an artist might release a limited edition NFT that includes a backstage pass to their next concert. Fans who purchase this NFT get to own a unique piece of digital memorabilia and gain access to an exclusive experience that enhances their connection to the artist. This kind of direct engagement helps artists build a loyal fan base and opens up new avenues for monetization”.

In addition to the financial benefits, Tune.fm’s model also offers greater transparency and control for artists. Traditional platforms often limit artists’ visibility into how their earnings are calculated and distributed. Tune.FM uses blockchain technology to keep all transactions on a public record, giving artists a clear and unchangeable account of their earnings. This transparency helps build trust and confidence, encouraging more artists to use the platform.

The JAM Token and Hedera Hashgraph

Central to Tune.FM’s approach is the JAM token, used for all transactions on the platform. Traded on 20 exchanges worldwide, JAM is essential for facilitating the platform’s unique payment model.

By leveraging Hedera Hashgraph technology, Tune.FM can process micropayments instantly and globally. This capability is crucial for the platform’s real-time payment system, where artists are paid instantly for every second their music is streamed.

Antar stresses out the importance of this technology, stating, “When the music gets played, the artist gets paid.” This immediate payment model is a significant departure from traditional systems, where payments can be slow and fragmented. 

Using Hedera Hashgraph offers many benefits, such as low transaction fees, high security, and the capacity to process many transactions at once. These features make it perfect for Tune.FM, ensuring artists get paid quickly and safely. The technology behind the JAM token and Hedera Hashgraph distinguishes Tune.FM from other music streaming platforms, providing an effective solution to the industry’s long-standing issues.

In addition to facilitating real-time payments, JAM also enables a variety of other functionalities on the platform. For instance, artists can use the tokens to run promotional campaigns, incentivize fan engagement, and reward loyal supporters. These uses help create a dynamic and interactive ecosystem that benefits both artists and fans.

Looking Ahead: What to Expect from Tune.FM

Tune.FM is not staying stagnant; the platform has big plans for the future. They aim to expand their content offerings and improve user experiences. One of the most exciting projects is “Jamfest,” a virtual music festival in the metaverse. This festival will provide a high-quality, immersive experience, enabling fans to attend virtual concerts and interact with artists in new and exciting ways.

Besides Jamfest, TuneFM is constantly developing new features. This includes forming partnerships with major record labels, improving the user interface, and finding new ways for artists to monetize their content. The aim is to create a comprehensive ecosystem that benefits both artists and fans, offering a seamless and enjoyable experience for all users.

“We also plan to integrate advanced technologies to enhance the user experience. For instance, we’re exploring artificial intelligence to provide personalized music recommendations and improve content discovery. It will create a more engaging and intuitive experience, helping users find new music and artists that match their tastes,” Antar shared.

Another area of focus for Tune.FM is expanding its reach to a global audience. Although the platform already has users worldwide, there is potential for growth in emerging markets where access to traditional music distribution channels is limited. Providing a decentralized solution for music streaming and monetization allows to bridge the gap and create more opportunities for artists and fans in these regions.

Andrew Antar envisions Tune.FM as a fair and innovative platform. By using blockchain technology and the JAM token, it creates a new music streaming model that benefits both artists and fans. As the platform expands, it could change the music industry for the better. With its focus on supporting artists and connecting with fans, Tune.FM is set to become a key player in music streaming.

The post How Tune.FM Transforms the Music Streaming Experience appeared first on BeInCrypto.

The Tangem Ring aims to make crypto storage easy, stylish, and secure. Users can manage their digital assets with a simple tap. In this article, we’ll explore the journey behind the Tangem Ring, from the design and technical challenges to what users think of it. Let’s get into it!

The Vision Behind the Tangem Ring

• What inspired Tangem to create the world’s first ring-shaped hardware wallet?

At Tangem, our vision has always been to make cryptocurrency management as accessible and secure as possible. The idea for the Tangem Ring was inspired by the need for a more portable and convenient solution that seamlessly integrates into everyday life. 

According to Statista, as of 2023, the global cryptocurrency user base has reached over 400 million users, showing a significant increase from previous years. 

This growing user base aligns with the increasing preference for secure storage solutions. A study revealed that 74% of crypto holders prefer hardware wallets due to their superior security features compared to software wallets and exchanges. 

The ring form factor embodies our aspiration to innovate, blending cutting-edge technology with wearable design and redefining how people interact with their crypto assets.

• Can you describe the design process behind the Tangem Ring? What were the key considerations in terms of aesthetics and functionality? 

We were inspired to create a ring a few years ago, but we encountered three challenges. First, we needed to find a material that meets Tangem’s standards for durability and longevity. 

Secondly, we wanted to ensure the ring is monolithic for maximum reliability. Thirdly, another challenge was fitting an NFC antenna and Tangem chip into the small casing while preserving its radio-electronic properties. We sought to make it visually appealing. We chose high-purity hypoallergenic zirconia ceramic for its sleek appearance and resilience against scratches and extreme conditions. 

Our goal was to create a device that everyone could use daily, anywhere, and for many years. We are proud that our wallet is highly resistant and durable: it’s waterproof, resistant to extreme temperatures, and has an industry-leading 25-year warranty.  

Functionality was equally crucial, leading us to integrate the same advanced technologies, such as NFC antennas and a secure EAL6+ CC-certified element, used in the Tangem Wallet cards. 

The Whole Crypto Universe in Your Pocket

• Can you explain how the Tangem Ring integrates with the Tangem app and other compatible devices? Which functionality does the Ring provide?

The Tangem Ring connects to the Tangem app and is installed on other compatible smartphones through NFC technology. Simply tapping the ring against your smartphone allows you to manage all your crypto assets effortlessly. After activation, the ring and two Tangem cards are linked to the same wallet and hold the same private key. 

The ring provides access to over 6,000 cryptocurrencies and supports a full range of services. Users can send, receive, buy, transfer, stake, and swap thousands of tokens and coins and access NFTs and DeFi. 

Enhanced Security with EAL6+ CC-Certified Secure Element

• How does the EAL6+ CC-certified secure element in the Tangem Ring enhance security compared to other hardware wallets?

The EAL6+ CC-certified secure element in the Tangem Ring ensures superior protection against both invasive and non-invasive attacks. Developed in collaboration with Samsung Semiconductors, this secure element is a critical component of our product that ensures the safety of users’ private keys. 

It is designed to withstand sophisticated hacking attempts, giving users peace of mind that their assets are securely stored. 

Unlike other hardware wallets, Tangem cards and Tangem rings only have a secure element that is protected. On one hand, this minimizes attack vectors; on the other hand, nothing can break.

• Could you elaborate on the Smart Backup Technology? (how does it ensure the safety and recoverability of crypto assets?)

The private key is generated in the secure element using a certified hardware true random number generator during activation. The entropy for the random number is taken from the chip’s physical sensors. This means that no one can ever know your private key, and it can never be reproduced. The hardware random number generator is a component of the Samsung-produced chip.

When this key is created, a secure communication channel is established between the cards and ring using the Diffie-Hellman key exchange protocol, after which the keys are securely transferred from the ring to the cards. 

This ensures there are no other copies of the private keys in existence. This mechanism is fully protected against man-in-the-middle attacks since the first step involves the chip authenticating each other with a two-way attestation, and the encryption is done with a 256-bit key. In other words, the ring and the two cards communicate with each other, and the application cannot decrypt this information.

Our innovative backup avoids the need for a seed phrase, which is a much less secure way to back up your private keys. 

“If you want to keep a secret, you must also hide it from yourself” George Orwell, 1984 

Interesting insight: Our innovative backup makes it possible to activate the Tangem Wallet with or without a seed phrase. We are glad that 80% of our users activate the Tangem Wallet without a seed phrase. 

By using Tangem technology, no one can ever know your private key—neither Tangem nor you or anyone else. In this case, it can not be lost or stolen. 

This is also a huge step towards mass adoption: crypto newcomers don’t have to complicate themselves by storing 12 to 24 words or spending hours on wallet activation anymore. 

Seamless Crypto at Your Fingertips: Tap-and-Go  Functionality

• What steps did you take to ensure the Tangem Ring is user-friendly for both new and experienced crypto users?

We prioritized simplicity and ease of use in the design of the Tangem Ring. The tap-and-go functionality allows users to manage their crypto with just a tap, eliminating the need for complex setups or cumbersome devices. 

We also integrated a user-friendly app that guides users through every step, from activation to daily usage. UX is a critical part of our hardware wallet design. Without a UX that brings more users to crypto, the true benefits of disintermediation at the core of blockchain technology will never be realized. 

We believe our world needs devices that can be used as easily and nearly thoughtlessly as our phones and laptops. 

• How does the tap-and-go functionality work, and what benefits does it provide in terms of convenience and accessibility?

It is always ready to work—you don’t need to charge it. Users can instantly access their crypto by simply tapping the ring against a compatible smartphone, eliminating the need for cables, plugs, or additional hardware. 

It saves time and gives you access to your crypto from anywhere and anytime.

Great Feedback, Future Enhancements, and Driving Mass Adoption

• What has been the initial feedback from users and industry experts who have tested the Tangem Ring?

Our test group and some industry influencers have called the crypto ring the future of the crypto industry. They noted that creating devices that are easy to manage while being secure is a trend that other companies should follow. 

This will drive crypto adoption. Moreover, we are convinced that the crypto ring has the potential to go beyond crypto-native audiences and attract interest from non-crypto people and Web 2 companies. We are actively exchanging with fashion marketplaces for future collaboration as they are interested in selling rings as tech jewelry that bridges crypto with fashion.

• Are there any additional features or improvements planned for future versions of the Tangem Ring? How do you see Tangem’s product line evolving over the next few years?

While the current Tangem Ring version is already feature-rich, we are constantly exploring ways to enhance its functionality. Future updates might include expanded compatibility with more form factors, new integrated services, additional security features, and even more user-friendly enhancements. 

We are set to integrate crypto markets, native staking, native NFT support, a wider range of exchanges, bridges, and more fiat on-ramp and off-ramp providers. Tangem is always integrating new blockchain networks, tokens, and coins to keep our leading position in the number of assets supported. 

In addition, we are also willing to diversify the line of our wearable devices and introduce crypto bracelets, which are primarily requested by our community, and other portable and wearable form factors. 

We want to diversify the ring’s design and are open to collaboration with creative designers, jewelry makers, and fashion brands. We also want to explore new use cases for the ring, such as NFT storage and tokenization of various products.

• What strategies are you employing to drive mass adoption of the Tangem Ring?

The Tangem Ring is more than a hardware wallet; it’s a fashion statement and a technological innovation. We’re showcasing how cool and effortless it is to use — imagine managing your crypto with a simple tap. 

There’s no need for seed phrases, computers, and USB cables, giving users peace of mind with maximum security. It’s about wearing your crypto and interacting with it daily from a device as simple as a ring.

We emphasize the convenience of managing your crypto from anywhere, no matter what you’re doing. Whether you’re at the gym, traveling, or just out and about, your crypto is always on your finger. 

This convenience resonates with broader consumer trends, as a survey found that 52% of consumers are interested in wearable devices that enhance convenience and integrate seamlessly into their daily lives. 

Furthermore, the global wearables market is projected to grow from $115.8 billion in 2021 to $260.6 billion by 2028, at a CAGR of 14.9%. This significant growth highlights the increasing demand for innovative, user-friendly wearable technology, which aligns perfectly with the vision behind the Tangem Ring.

• In what ways do you think the introduction of a wearable hardware wallet will influence crypto asset management (hardware wallet industry) and security?

Introducing the Tangem Ring as a wearable hardware wallet represents a significant shift in how people manage their crypto assets. It offers unprecedented convenience and accessibility, making it easier for users to incorporate crypto into their daily lives. 

From the perspective of mass adoption of crypto and simplifying the way people interact with crypto, Tangem Ring set new standards for protecting and managing your digital assets. We believe this innovation will inspire further advancements in the industry, driving more competition and developing even more user-friendly and secure solutions.

Step Into the Future of Hardware Wallets

The Tangem Ring is a big step forward in the evolution of cryptocurrency storage. This stylish and secure ring makes it easy for anyone to manage their crypto assets on the go. 

The blend of advanced security features, such as the EAL6+ CC-certified secure element, and the ease of use makes this ring stand out. You don’t need to worry about complex setups, seed phrases, or bulky hardware. The ring is durable, waterproof, and comes with a remarkable 25-year warranty, ensuring it’s a reliable companion for the long haul.

The seamless connection with the Tangem app allows users to manage, buy, sell, and stake over 6000 crypto assets effortlessly. Learn more about the Tangem Ring here.

The post Revolutionizing Crypto Storage: Tangem CCO Darya Karpukova on the World’s First Ring-Shaped Hardware Wallet appeared first on BeInCrypto.

A few months later, FixedFloat shared the details of these incidents and ongoing investigation with BeInCrypto.

FixedFloat has been hacked twice this year. How did this happen?

The first hack occurred on the night of February 16-17. This was an external attack caused by vulnerabilities in our security structure. A hacker exploited a vulnerability in our security and was able to gain access to some of FixedFloat’s functions. The second breach took place on March 31, where the hacker exploited a vulnerability in a third-party service we were using at the time.

Was the second hack committed by the same hacker who committed the previous hack, or was it a different attacker?

We believe the same hacker committed both hacks because the attacks originated from the same IP address. We cannot provide all the details at the moment. However, we can report that hackers possess a large number of compromised servers.

On some of these servers, they have deployed the infrastructure for attacks. They likely did not store evidence on their own devices, instead using third-party servers. The hackers utilized numerous unique IP addresses; however, some were used to launch both attacks.

Do you have information about who exactly is behind the hacks?

We have been using Time4VPS hosting for a long time. This is a fairly large web hosting provider in Europe, operating since 2012. We chose Time4VPS for our purposes, since this hosting offers fairly cheap servers with low performance. This was a convenient and profitable option for implementing some technical solutions at the initial stage of development of our project.

Over the past years, we have migrated our subservers and wallets. At the beginning of 2024, several low-power nodes with wallets and some subsystems remained on the Time4VPS server. After the first hack, the hacker discovered the IP address of one of our technical servers rented from Time4VPS.

How did the hacker use the information?

The hacker logged into all our servers, rented from Time4VPS hosting, simultaneously, despite knowing only one IP address. We immediately changed all passwords on servers and accounts, but the hacker quickly changed the passwords again. We found a solution to prevent server authorization and started transitioning from this hosting provider.

However, the hacker gained access to all hoster functions, including global access to all servers, rendering our solutions ineffective. The hacker changed the account email to an invalid one, preventing us from logging in or receiving password change notifications. They connected to the servers without authorization.

At this point, we realized the need to destroy the servers and remove them from the whitelists immediately. Our delay in doing so allowed the hacker to send requests that enabled them to steal funds.

Have you contacted Time4VPS support?

On March 31, immediately after discovering unauthorized access to our servers, we contacted Time4VPS to report the hack. We were extremely surprised by their inaction. Technical support informed us that the technicians had the day off and could not assist us. The following day, the Time4VPS team remained inactive. They merely advised us to change the passwords on our account.

We eventually convinced them to verify that certain actions could not be performed through their personal account. Only then did they confirm the hack and promise to provide a report on the incident the next day.

Have you received a hack report from Time4VPS?

More than three months have passed, and there is still no report from Time4VPS. Instead, they requested that we provide some documents through their system. We refused because Time4VPS representatives have not confirmed that they found and fixed the vulnerability. Their demands have created the risk of another information leak.

We agreed to cooperate only with the direct involvement of law enforcement or after they confirmed the vulnerability had been corrected. Additionally, our lawyer was prepared to provide the necessary documents directly at the company’s office to receive reports and assistance. However, Time4VPS management rejected this offer.

Why do you think Time4VPS was inactive at the time of the hack and did not provide assistance after it?

We do not exclude the possibility that a hoster’s employee could have facilitated the hacking. However, we are more inclined to believe that Time4VPS and the Lithuanian company behind it are simply careless. We believe the hoster’s critical vulnerabilities remain unfixed, leaving all their clients’ data unprotected from hacker attacks.

Did the hack impact your customers?

This incident caused problems not only for us but also for our users. As soon as we detected the hack, we turned off FixedFloat and suspended all ongoing exchanges.

FixedFloat is an automated, non-custodial, decentralized cryptocurrency exchange service, so we don’t store our users’ funds. Additionally, FixedFloat is not a cryptocurrency mixer. We send funds to exchanges only from our addresses, and this information is public.

Due to the hack, we had obligations to clients who made exchanges at that time. We have since fulfilled all obligations to our users, and completed all orders that stopped due to the service outage. Only our service suffered from the hacking and theft of funds.

What measures did you take after the hack?

The first breach was due to a security vulnerability, which we have since fixed. Unfortunately, we did not anticipate an attack from third parties. Following the second hack, our service was under maintenance for over two months. During this period, our specialists worked extensively to enhance our infrastructure and protect against such attacks.

We have radically revised our security system. This included conducting a comprehensive audit, implementing additional security measures, and improving our threat detection and prevention systems.

Have you completed the technical work?

Yes, FixedFloat has resumed operations. Most cryptocurrencies are already available for exchange, and our specialists are working on adding new currencies. We have been providing high-quality, convenient, and fast cryptocurrency exchange services for six years, and we intend to continue our work.

From a hack survivor perspective, can you give a few recommendations to other platforms and its users on how to increase security?

As a service that has experienced two hacks for different reasons, we’d recommend the following:

• Conduct frequent audits of your security systems. Identify and address all vulnerabilities promptly.
• Plan for Provider Vulnerabilities. The second hack exploited a vulnerability in our hosting provider, Time4VPS. Platforms should anticipate such scenarios and have a robust procedure for dealing with service provider hacks.
• Always prioritize user safety. Implement strict security measures and protocols to protect user data and funds.

What steps are you taking to regain the trust of your users following these accidents?

We are actively engaging with our users through various communication channels, including social networks and forums. This allows us to inform them about the changes we have made. Currently, not all users are aware that FixedFloat has resumed operations, but we are working to spread this information.

We understand that many were concerned about the hack’s impact on our users. However, we emphasize that we are a non-custodial service and do not store user funds. Orders that were not fulfilled due to the emergency shutdown have been completed. At present, we have no financial obligations to our users.

The post Two Hacks Later: FixedFloat’s Survival Story appeared first on BeInCrypto.

RareSkills, founded in September 2022, focuses on providing advanced blockchain training, filling the gap in high-quality, in-depth educational resources in the complex field.

The Genesis and Mission of RareSkills

Scholz’s transition into the blockchain space began in 2021 after leading a machine learning group at Yahoo. His decision to move to Asia and subsequently work for himself opened up numerous opportunities in Web3. “What really convinced me to get into education was my work and research on Medium, which performed exceptionally well, and the success of my Solidity courses on Udemy,” he explained. 

This success stressed out a demand for high-quality blockchain education, prompting Scholz to establish RareSkills. The platform aims to provide in-depth training, particularly in advanced and less documented areas of blockchain technology.

“If you’re just trying to learn how to make a smart contract, there’s an abundance of material to work from. But for more sophisticated or recently developed topics, the resources are still lacking. RareSkills addresses this gap by focusing on advanced topics where existing materials are scarce or inadequate. Our work on Zero-knowledge proofs has been crucial. We wrote what is probably the most popular resource on the subject, filling a significant knowledge gap,” he observed. 

RareSkills addresses this gap by focusing on advanced topics where existing materials are scarce or inadequate. This commitment to high-level education helps students move beyond the basics and develop a deeper understanding of blockchain technology. RareSkills aims to equip learners with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed.

“We want to ensure that our students are not only able to perform basic tasks but also understand the underlying principles and complexities of the technology,” Scholz added.

Challenges in Blockchain Development

Scholz highlighted several challenges developers face when transitioning into Web3. One of the main issues is that there aren’t many resources that really push people to deeply understand blockchain. For web programming or app development, there are plenty of resources. If your non-critical app crashes, it’s not a big deal. You can restart the system if needed. Even if users leave bad reviews, you can fix the problem by finding and deactivating the faulty code.

“When dealing with other people’s crypto, you can’t be cavalier. You have to know all the situations where a transaction might fail. You need to know all the possible ways a transaction might fail. Most educators don’t cover this comprehensively, explaining how to fully understand the system and where it could go wrong. Documenting this is tough because every system is different,” Shholz commented. 

RareSkills focuses on thorough education, making sure developers understand the details of blockchain systems. This is different from many other resources that only give a basic understanding, which can be risky in the important field of blockchain development. “Many resources don’t stress the need to understand every detail. We make sure our students are ready to foresee and handle any possible issues,” Scholz added.

BeInCrypto could not ignore the role of AI technology in education. Discussing this, Scholz acknowledged that AI is useful for answering basic questions but warned against depending on it too much. “For basic questions, AI is a good tool. But for more advanced topics, it often provides hand-wavy answers and lacks the depth needed,” he noted. While AI, like ChatGPT, can help with simple queries, it struggles with more complex and specialized subjects, highlighting the need for detailed, human-led instruction.

Market Dynamics and Demand for Devs

Scholz explains the demand for Web3 developers to fluctuate with venture capital funding cycles. “The demand for developers follows VC funding in the space. During bear markets, layoffs are common, but in bullish periods, the demand for skilled developers increases,” he explained. This cyclical nature of demand means that developers must be adaptable and continuously update their skills.

He advised aspiring blockchain developers to specialize in niche areas to stand out in the job market. Developers should build a personal brand around their expertise, participate in hackathons, and publish their work to increase visibility and credibility.

“The core principles of blockchain don’t change much, but new tools and techniques are constantly being developed. If you’re able to become really knowledgeable about a niche subject, you become part of a very small group of people, and that differentiates you,” Scholz advised,” he noted. 

Speaking of specific trends, Scholz highlighted a growing demand for developers with expertise in Zero-knowledge proofs. This is an area where RareSkills offers specialized training. He noted that this is a challenging field because it is relatively new and has few experts. Employers often seek candidates with near-PhD level expertise, making these positions difficult to fill regardless of the market phase.

He also pointed out a noticeable increase in demand for Rust developers, particularly those with real-world experience. Employers are looking for developers who have used Rust in a production environment, not just those who have taken a course.

RareSkills plans to expand its offerings with new bootcamps focusing on concentrated liquidity and advanced Zero-knowledge proof applications. Whatever the market requests, RareSkills strives to stay ahead of the curve by continuously updating its curriculum to reflect the latest developments in blockchain technology, helping developers build the specialized knowledge needed to stand out in.

RareSkills Partnerships and Future Plans

RareSkills collaborates with leading companies in the blockchain space to strengthen its educational offerings. These partnerships not only provide students with access to their resources but also help them build valuable connections in the industry, offering the students insights and opportunities that would be difficult to achieve independently. 

“Our most prominent partnership is the one with OpenZeppelin. They maintain the largest and most widely used smart contract library in the Ethereum ecosystem. OpenZeppelin is primarily an audit company; they review smart contracts for security vulnerabilities. Another significant partnership is with Matter Labs, the company behind ZK Sync. Additionally, we have a content partnership with Solana. They sponsored our Solana course, allowing us to invest time in it and offer it for free. You can access the course on our website without even providing an email,” Scholz said.

RareSkills has seen numerous success stories from its graduates. One notable example is a student who, with no prior Web3 experience, secured a position at Coinbase through connections made during the program. Another graduate became a security engineer at Matter Labs, a leading company in the Zero-knowledge proof space. The platform’s success stories demonstrate the real-world impact of its educational programs. Graduates have gone on to secure positions at leading companies, leveraging the skills and knowledge gained through RareSkills to advance their careers. “We are proud of the achievements of our graduates and are committed to continuing to provide the best possible education to help more students succeed,” Scholz remarked.

RareSkills aims to develop more free resources to support a wider range of learners. “We believe in making education accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation,” Scholz said. This commitment to accessibility ensures that RareSkills can reach a broader audience and have a greater impact on blockchain education.

Jeffrey Scholz’s RareSkills is making great progress in blockchain education, filling gaps in advanced training and preparing developers for the future of Web3. With its focus on high-quality, detailed education, RareSkills is set to play an important role in the ongoing growth of blockchain technology. The need for skilled blockchain developers increases, so platforms like RareSkills will be key in training the next generation of Web3 professionals.

The post How RareSkills is Leading Blockchain Education Forward appeared first on BeInCrypto.

BeInCrypto sat down with TON Ecosystem Lead Alena Shmalko to discuss the profound impact of these partnerships, the challenges of expanding a non-EVM compatible blockchain, and the strategic initiatives that catapulted TON into a major player in the space.

TON’s Key Projects and Partnerships

Alena begins by highlighting the explosive growth within TON’s ecosystem. “The ecosystem right now is experiencing a real boom,” she says, noting an impressive 2,000% increase in Total Value Locked (TVL) in recent months. This surge is largely attributed to the launch of The Open League, an initiative aimed at both TON users and builders, which has fostered massive growth and engagement.

One of the cornerstone partnerships bolstering this growth is with Telegram. Officially termed a strategic partnership, this collaboration integrates TON’s Web3 infrastructure into Telegram’s ecosystem. 

“We’re aligned on the growth and development of Web3 elements within the Telegram ecosystem,” Alena explains. “As a result, we’ve seen the introduction of a wallet created by an independent team, which is now being rolled out as a native feature inside the messenger across various regions. Additionally, other independent products are being developed within Telegram, such as the Telegram App Center, which aggregates all decentralized applications launched on TON in the form of mini apps as well as Web2 Telegram mini apps.”

Read more: 6 Best Toncoin (TON) Wallets in 2024

The launch of Tether’s USDT on TON, announced at TOKEN2049, is also set to play a large role in driving mass adoption. It facilitated numerous joint campaigns with centralized exchanges such as OKX, Bybit, and KuCoin and offered users various opportunities to earn rewards. Introducing the world’s largest stablecoin to TON’s ecosystem represented a major step toward establishing a more consistent and reliable financial environment, providing easier transactions and fostering greater trust in the platform.

Alena notes ongoing partnerships with prominent Web3 players such as Animoca Brands, Fireblocks, and HashKey Group. Such allies validate TON’s technological advancements, boost its credibility, and appeal to a broader audience.

Developer Support and Community Engagement

TON Foundation and TON Society focus on supporting developers and boosting community engagement. They regularly organize hackathons, workshops, webinars, and online courses to equip developers with the knowledge and skills to build on the TON blockchain. These programs are globally accessible, ensuring anyone can contribute with the right resources and support.

One of the major initiatives in TON’s ecosystem is The Open League, a long-term incentive program designed to reward builders and users. The initiative started in March with 18 projects participating in the beta season and has now grown to embrace around 40 TON applications, 57 tokens, and 22 NFT collections. The Foundation has already distributed more than $45 million in rewards, allocated $150 million in total, and plans to scale the program further.

Alena also highlights the potential of the gaming sector within the ecosystem, noting that Web3 gaming offers new opportunities for value exchange, true ownership, and financial benefits for gamers. Coupled with Telegram’s potential — its 900 million monthly active users — this positions TON as the blockchain of choice for mini game developers.

“Web3 gaming empowers gamers to do things that they can’t currently cannot do, offering a better form of value exchange, true ownership and attractive financial opportunities,” she explains. “People can now access fun, simple and viral games in their favourite messenger, without the need to set up a separate Web3 wallet and leave the interface”.

Read more: Tap-to-Earn: What to Know About the Crypto GameFi Trend

TON is also exploring other product areas such as SocialFi, e-commerce, onboarding and education tools, and DeFi. These sectors have significant potential to attract large numbers of people. Future developments may include RWA tokenization, supply chain management, decentralized identity (DID), decentralized physical infrastructure networks (DePIN), and AI. Blockchain will ultimately spread across all those, but the low-hanging fruit here are products that will easily become appealing to retail users and offer them some clear, direct value.

The Road to 500 Million Users

Looking ahead, Alena outlines the primary objectives of TON’s ecosystem. The long-term mission of bringing 500 million users on-chain by 2028 is central to these goals. To achieve this, the Foundation will continue implementing The Open League. “This initiative has already borne a lot of fruit, but we want to scale it to more teams and users,” she explains.

Improving user experience (UX) and onboarding processes will be a significant focus. TON Foundation commits to supporting developers in creating valuable and user-friendly decentralized applications.

However, Alena recognizes the challenges ahead. One primary hurdle is that TON is a non-EVM blockchain, so developers must learn new programming languages like Tact and Fun-C. To mitigate this, TON provides comprehensive documentation, technical support, and educational resources.

“We are constantly improving our documentation and offering support to help developers transition smoothly into our ecosystem,” Alena notes. “Given that they need to learn new languages, we provide very comprehensive documentation in multiple languages. Now we’re translating it to Mandarin because we have a very strong focus on Asia. Then Arabic as well. We have documentation for CIS regions, of course, and obviously for English speakers”.

Read more: How to Achieve EVM Compatibility in Non-EVM Blockchains

Moreover, scaling the infrastructure to support a growing user base presents technical challenges. Ensuring that the network remains secure, efficient, and capable of handling increased traffic and transactions is a continuous effort. Alena points out that the team is dedicated to overcoming these obstacles by building a collaborative environment where developers can share insights and innovations.

As the conversation concludes, Alena reiterates her belief in the future of a fully tokenized world. “The future will be tokenized 100%,” she states, drawing parallels to the digital revolution many doubted at the turn of the century. Strategic partnerships, initiatives like The Open League, and a strong focus on user experience position TON to lead this transformation.

The post How TON Foundation Plans to Onboard 500 Million Users On-Chain appeared first on BeInCrypto.

David Lee, with his extensive expertise in business development, plays a pivotal role at Cerus Markets. His efforts aim to foster partnerships across various regions and enhance the trading environment for a diverse array of traders. 

This interview will examine how Cerus Markets aims to connect cryptocurrency and traditional financial markets. 

How Cerus Markets is Bridging Crypto and Traditional Markets

Trading on Cerus Markets allows users to buy and sell cryptocurrencies alongside more conventional financial assets like stocks, indices, commodities, and foreign exchange. 

David emphasized, “Cerus Markets is a unique trading platform that allows crypto trading against all major financial instruments. David emphasized this as a way to revolutionize the financial landscape. By combining cryptocurrency and more conventional financial markets, this offering gives traders access to previously unavailable opportunities.”

One of Cerus Markets’ standout features is its ability to accommodate both crypto enthusiasts and traditional traders. This dual approach offers significant benefits for affiliates and introducing brokers. 

According to David, this strategic positioning allows them to appeal to a wide range of customers, including crypto enthusiasts seeking more diverse trading options and traditional traders curious about the crypto market. 

This broader audience base increases potential referrals and commissions, providing affiliates with a new product to offer their clients.

Advantages of Using Crypto as Base Currency

The conversation moved to the benefits of using cryptocurrencies as the base currency in trading. 

David underlined, “Using cryptocurrencies as the base currency in trading opens up untapped opportunities by allowing unique trading pairs against conventional asset classes. This creative approach gives traders access to a wider spectrum of market dynamics and possible profit paths by allowing them to diversify their portfolios in ways not possible with traditional trading approaches.”

Moreover, trading cryptocurrencies in CFDs (Contracts for Difference) has clear benefits. 

David said, “CFDs let traders go long or short on positions easily since they let them gamble on price swings without owning the underlying asset. Together with the leverage provided in CFD trading, this adaptability helps traders to maximize their possible returns and better control risk.”

Metatrader 5 (MT5) Is Enhancing the Cerus Markets System 

Recently Cerus Markets included MetaTrader 5 (MT5) into their system, greatly improving user interface. 

“The advanced trading features of MetaTrader 5 greatly improve the user experience through integration into our platform,” David said. 

MT5 offers traders a range of advanced tools including better charting, several order kinds, and quick execution speeds. These tools enable traders with more control and accuracy in their trading plans, so appealing the platform to both new and seasoned players.

Partner Program and Cellxpert Integration

Cerus Markets is committed to enhancing the partnership experience for affiliates and introducing brokers. The integration of Cellxpert is a testament to this commitment. 

David shared, “The integration of Cellxpert is a direct response to the valuable feedback and recommendations from our existing partners. This enhancement significantly improves the partnership experience by offering advanced system capabilities and substantial user benefits.”

Partners gain access to a robust analytics portal, enabling real-time tracking of client activity and campaign performance. Additionally, the new commission structures and tailored rewards ensure that affiliates and introducing brokers can maximize their earnings. 

David emphasized, “This integration reflects our commitment to continually improving our platform based on partner insights, ensuring their success and satisfaction.”

Future Developments of Cerus Markets

Looking ahead, Cerus Markets has several exciting developments in the pipeline for the next six months. 

David revealed, “We are gearing up for a significant transformation that will bring major enhancements to our platform, presenting a fresh new look and feel that reflects our commitment to innovation and excellence in trading services.”

Cerus Markets plans to expand its unique offering of crypto trading pairs and provide in-depth analysis through its “Pair of the Week” series. To keep traders informed and ahead of the market, they will also start a series of trading webinars available in several languages. 

David reassured, “These projects, combined with our constant efforts to innovate and improve our platform, ensure that our partners and traders have the tools and information they need to make informed trading decisions and achieve their financial goals.”

Conclusion

David Lee concluded the session by reiterating Cerus Markets’ dedication to providing a secure, simple, and convenient trading platform that bridges the gap between cryptocurrency and traditional financial markets. He invited potential partners to join Cerus Markets on their journey to innovation and success. 

“We continually seek partners who share our vision of integrating these two dynamic sectors, working together to achieve success,” David stated.

The post Bridging Finance Worlds: Cerus Markets VP David Lee on Merging Crypto with Traditional Trading appeared first on BeInCrypto.

In an exclusive interview, Bob Ng, the Chief Technology Officer of UXLINK, shared his insights on the competitive field, user metrics, and the future of SocialFi.

Enhancing User Verification for Authentic Interactions

BeInCrypto: The SocialFi sector is a hot topic now. What unique value proposition does UXLINK offer that sets it apart from other social platforms in the market?

UXLINK’s unique value proposition lies in its focus on authentic social interactions and its robust user verification process. By emphasizing “registered users” instead of just unique wallet addresses, UXLINK ensures that the interactions on its platform are genuine and meaningful. This approach helps to build a trustworthy community, which is essential for social platforms. Additionally, UXLINK vets new users through its invitation-only registration process, enhancing the quality of the user base.

BeInCrypto: What advantages does this provide in understanding your user base?

UXLINK focuses on “registered users” to ensure that its user base reflects real individuals engaging with the platform. This approach addresses issues of fake or sybil wallet addresses that can distort data. By using registered users as a metric, UXLINK can better understand and cater to its actual user base, fostering more meaningful interactions and improving the overall quality of the community.

BeInCrypto: Can you walk us through the process and criteria for verifying and registering a user on UXLINK? How does this ensure the authenticity of your user base?

The verification and registration process on UXLINK involves three stages:

• Invitation-Based Registration. New users must be invited by existing users or partners, ensuring that new members are connected to the community.
• Human Interaction Verification. Users must engage in human interaction to prove they are not bots.
• Product Usage. Users must utilize UXLINK’s products to complete their registration.

This multi-stage process ensures that each user is a real person, significantly reducing the likelihood of fake accounts and enhancing the authenticity of the user base.

Addressing Challenges in SocialFi

BeInCrypto: What are your thoughts on the current trends in SocialFi, and how can UXLINK take advantage of these trends?

Current trends in SocialFi include a focus on decentralization, user privacy, and community-driven growth. UXLINK can take advantage of these trends by leveraging its strong community verification processes and commitment to user privacy. Our approach to incentivizing community contributions through UXUY and its emphasis on authentic social connections align well with these trends, making it a leader in the space.

BeInCrypto: Where is the SocialFi sector currently lagging, and what innovations or improvements are needed to advance the field?

The SocialFi currently lags in addressing sybil attacks and ensuring genuine user interactions. This sector needs innovations in user verification, such as multi-stage registration and human interaction requirements, to improve authenticity.Additionally, enhancing user privacy and security while maintaining transparency is crucial. Developing tools and protocols that make it easier for users to interact and contribute to the community can also advance the field.

BeInCrypto: What measures does UXLINK implement to detect and prevent sybil accounts, and how effective have these measures been?

UXLINK implements a three-step process to detect and prevent sybil accounts:

• Step one. Based on human verification or access compliance validation, we will identify wallet addresses as false and exclude them from the system. These accounts will not be counted as registered users, and they will not generate UXUY rewards from “link-to-earn”. While this step can block the majority of false accounts, it must not be too stringent to avoid inadvertently harming genuine users.
• Step two. Upon entering the UXLINK network and generating UXUY rewards, we will further filter based on community contributions and activity levels. For example, if an account remains inactive for six months or fails to successfully claim UXUY, UXLINK will reclaim the rewards and redistribute them within the community to incentivize high-quality users. This reallocation process helps to insure that only users who truly contribute value to the community receive incentives.
• Step three. Before TGE, the community will conduct another round of anti-sybil measures and announce the methods. They will reintroduce the reclaimed UXUY rewards into the community to incentivize high-quality users.

These measures have been effective in maintaining a high-quality user base and ensuring that community incentives are directed toward genuine users.

BeInCrypto: How does UXLINK ensure user privacy and data security, particularly given the platform’s emphasis on social interaction and connection?

UXLINK ensures user privacy and data security by implementing robust encryption protocols and privacy-preserving technologies. The platform respects user privacy by allowing users to interact without necessarily revealing their identities. UXLINK also follows strict data security practices to protect user information from unauthorized access, ensuring a safe and secure environment for social interactions.

UXLINK Brings the Mass Adoption Closer

BeInCrypto: How does UXUY function within the UXLINK ecosystem to encourage community growth and interaction?

UXUY functions as an on-chain Proof of Work (POW) score within the UXLINK ecosystem. It incentivizes community growth and interaction by rewarding users for their contributions to the community. Users earn UXUY through defined POW activities, and these rewards can be claimed on-chain. This system encourages active participation and rewards genuine contributions, fostering a vibrant and engaged community.

BeInCrypto: How does UXLINK maintain high levels of user engagement and retention, especially in comparison to other platforms?

UXLINK maintains high levels of engagement and retention through its focus on social connections and community contributions. By fostering real-world social relationships and group activities, UXLINK creates a strong sense of community. The platform also incentivizes active participation through UXUY rewards and ensures that contributions are recognized and rewarded. These strategies lead to higher user stickiness and retention rates compared to other platforms.

BeInCrypto: What do you see as the biggest barriers to mass adoption of SocialFi platforms, and how is UXLINK working to overcome these obstacles?

The biggest barriers to mass adoption of SocialFi platforms include user trust, privacy concerns, and the complexity of blockchain technology. UXLINK addresses these obstacles by building a trustworthy community through rigorous verification processes, prioritizing user privacy, and providing user-friendly interfaces. By simplifying interactions and making blockchain technology more accessible, UXLINK aims to overcome these barriers and drive mass adoption.

BeInCrypto: How does UXLINK assess and reward community contributions, and what impact does this have on fostering an active and engaged user base?

UXLINK assesses community contributions through its UXUY POW score, which records and rewards user activities. Contributions are evaluated based on predefined community activities, and users earn UXUY as a result. This rewards system encourages active participation and fosters an engaged user base by recognizing and incentivizing valuable contributions to the community.

Future Prospects and Strategic Collaborations

BeInCrypto:  What upcoming projects or features can UXLINK users look forward to, and how do these align with your vision for the platform’s future?

UXLINK users can look forward to new features that enhance social interactions and community engagement. Upcoming projects include collaborations with ecosystem partners to establish a socialized layer for asset generation and distribution. These developments align with UXLINK’s vision of creating a trustworthy social platform and infrastructure that empowers users and developers alike.

BeInCrypto: How does UXLINK plan to collaborate with other ecosystem partners to enhance its platform and user experience?

UXLINK plans to collaborate with ecosystem partners by integrating their services and technologies into its platform. This will enable users to access a wider range of applications and services seamlessly. By leveraging these partnerships, UXLINK aims to enhance the user experience and provide more value to its community, driving growth and innovation within the SocialFi sector.

The post SocialFi Revolution: Insights from UXLINK’s CTO Bob Ng appeared first on BeInCrypto.

The entrepreneur duo’s journey shows their ability to adapt, overcome, and evolve, as they create a space for themselves in DeFi’s changing environment.

From Wall Street to Web3

Salim, an AI and big data engineer by trade, found his calling beyond the corporate world. With a background in engineering, mathematics, and statistical modeling, he expanded his expertise to include marketing and sales strategies for online ventures, becoming the marketing mastermind behind a combined $100M in sales in these industries.Yet, his real breakthrough came in 2022 when a tweet by Elon Musk sparked his interest in Bitcoin (BTC), propelling him down the cryptocurrency rabbit hole.

“I participated in many Web3 projects, the most famous being MetaLegends, where I was managing the marketing side of things. This project sold out for $20 million. That’s when I realized things are happening way faster in the Web3 world”, Salim says. “And by that time, I met Tan. At the peak of the last bull market we chose to launch something together. And that’s how Decentralized Masters came to be.”

Tan, on the other hand, began his journey in the world of finance, climbing the investment banking ladder. From the suburbs of Paris, he navigated a traditional path, securing a role on Wall Street, where he witnessed the inner workings of the banking industry. But Tan’s experience with crypto conferences and witnessing the potential of blockchain technology led him to shift gears. He recognized the power of DeFi, particularly in comparison to traditional banking systems, and made the transition to the crypto space.

“At 21 I passed my CFP1 and got access to Wall Street. I did an internship there as an investment banker, and it really opened my eyes,” Tan adds. “I saw behind the curtains of the big investment banks how the game was rigged. And I saw true use cases of crypto, how it could make everything better.”

Turning Adversity into Opportunity

The inception of Decentralized Masters came at a crucial moment. The company launched just before a brutal market crash: one of the biggest centralized exchanges in the US, FTX, collapsed, triggering a domino effect throughout the industry. The downfall of Sam Bankman-Fried’s empire led to widespread fear, eroded trust in CEXes and intensified the challenges for a freshly launched company.

Despite early success, their journey took a steep turn when their payment processor unexpectedly blocked transactions and banking partners temporarily froze funds. Plus, social platforms restricted their content and it was as if everyone was against them. However, Salim and Tan saw an opportunity in the adversity.

“We were starting to sell really well. It was a massive success. But after one or two weeks of sales, the FTX crash happened,” – Salim reflects. “And from there, everything went downhill. We almost gave up, it felt like the whole Universe was conspiring to make sure we wouldn’t win. But by the end of the year we were like – you know what, if we manage to do this during a bear market, imagine how amazing it will be during a bull market? And from there, it has been a crazy ascension.”

The duo’s resilience paid off, as they secured new banking partners and payment processors, and Decentralized Masters grew from zero employees by the end of 2022 to over 80 team members in just a year. 

Both entrepreneurs now look back to late November 2022 as a turning point for the whole DeFi space. People recognized that centralized exchanges were not safe and reaffirmed the value proposition of DeFi platforms.

Tan notes centralized exchanges function like traditional banks, using clients’ assets to make money and offering crypto products without leveraging blockchain technology. According to him, this leads to issues such as limited transparency and lack of security, as seen in the FTX case.

“What centralized exchanges do? They pay clients 3-4% and use their crypto to make 20-30-40% in DeFi protocols. That’s exactly what the bank does when you leave your money in savings,” he recalls. “What we want to teach people is to self-custody their funds to hedge against the monetary system, so they can control it and make the profit instead of giving it to the third party.”

The Decentralized Approach

Decentralized Masters provides comprehensive education on DeFi and crypto markets. The platform’s value lies in its multifaceted approach, from portfolio management and asset selection to technical analysis and strategy development.

As for now, the company boasts a team of 10 full-time analysts who conduct in-depth research into various projects, comparing them across a range of variables. They provide a full overview of each asset, incorporating fundamental, technical, on-chain, and team analyses. The projects are then graded based on these variables, resulting in a ranking system to assess their success potential.

“We’re lucky to be surrounded by a team of people who are all experts in their different narratives. They conduct due diligence on a daily basis,” Tan explains. “That allows us to basically rate different protocols, different projects, and make sure that we only invest in projects that have a high potential of staying alive.”

But the team’s vision extends beyond analysis, encompassing community building and mentoring. Decentralized Masters offers a mastermind community and a platform for members to connect and share knowledge. This extensive ecosystem has fostered a thriving community, where members proudly display their credentials.

“We gather high-value individuals with the same sophistication and values,” Salim notes. “Сommunity in crypto is everything: it can make or break one’s success. At the end of the day, when you’re surrounded by the right people, things tend to work pretty well.”

Bridging TradFi and DeFi

Decentralized Masters’ narrative was designed to act as a bridge between traditional finance (TradFi) and DeFi. Their strategies leverage portfolio management principles from Tan’s CFA background, while also incorporating decentralized finance tools. This convergence of two worlds is pivotal to their mission.

“We teach people to stay away from risk while optimizing potential rewards. It’s all about the portfolio allocation principles that we have and the rules that we follow to make sure we avoid the downside,” Salim comments. “Once you have decided which 10 to 12 assets you want to hold, you can use DeFi tools to juice up the returns with a long term mindset. When the market is going red, you can add some delta-neutral strategies and more elaborate strategies on top.”

The founders draw a parallel from the TradFi world to the current DeFi space, where concepts such as restaking and liquid restaking echo the derivatives ideology from traditional finance. They highlight that this transition represents a broader shift, with all the innovation from TradFi moving to DeFi, where everything can be tokenized.

“While TradFi currently holds more capabilities due to decades of development, DeFi is quickly catching up, particularly with finance experts joining the pace. This space needs real finance people to jump ship and help the devs,» Tan asserts, highlighting the need for collaboration between financial and technical expertise.

This union is embodied in the Decentralized Masters team, with Salim’s engineering prowess and Tan’s finance acumen driving the platform’s growth. The project is poised to expand further, led by its dedication to education, innovation, and community building. Decentralized Masters’ vision reflects the evolving crypto space, as they merge the old and new financial worlds, offering nuanced insights and strategies.

The post Building Bridges: Decentralized Masters and Their DeFi Journey appeared first on BeInCrypto.