Tech
The premium for owning Web3 distribution is huge. Here’s why it won’t go to big tech companies
For more than a decade, the blockchain industry has wrestled with a self-determining question: How do we go mainstream? The search for the killer app or company that suddenly moves the masses to crypto infrastructure has proven to be a daunting task. But unlocking product-market fit in this case represents more than a win for the consumer; it will mark a profound shift in how the Internet is structured and governed for our entire lives. So who will be the powerful Web3 distributor, controlling the wallets and app stores of the future?
The prize for owning Web3 distribution is huge but increasingly out of reach FAANG. Despite their vast resources and influence, to date these giants have been most successful in a supporting role, passively assisting the transition to a decentralized future, for example by ensuring convenient access to computing.
Adopting Web3 is a multi-faceted challenge and is not suitable for companies that leverage data and advertising for large profits. The “world’s most innovative companies” are too entrenched in the mire of legacy business models, partners and products, further slowed by culture shock and short-term shareholder orientation.
It is clear that Big Tech is not serious about cryptocurrency. They have never publicly disclosed how their open source initiatives could be redirected to cryptocurrency, nor have they purchased a significant portion of a base layer by acquiring a token, despite the associated governance rights that could come with it to influence the roadmap. One might wonder what we expect from these legacy platform companies that unofficially rule the global web and the true value they provide to users versus themselves.
Despite having ubiquitous distribution and seemingly limitless opportunities to hire emerging blockchain talent, the story has always been that it is not a large enough market opportunity to address today. After liquidating Libra due to a regulatory backlash, Facebook Metaverse unit has a net loss of $40 billion for the last three years and still has no chips on the table in cryptocurrency. Instead of committing to being a distributor to Web3 users, they are trying to innovate the product suite to continue generating more than 95% of revenue through advertising sales, in part due to a widespread belief among regulators that there is no can trust consumers to be responsible for their finances or data.
We are becoming accustomed to having our emails checked to help “fine-tune the AI model,” and most consumers have unconsciously agreed to give up privacy in exchange for modern conveniences. This further strengthens the reach and power of the FAANGs, but it does not bring us any closer to implementing a truly modern technology like blockchain that would materially improve the average person’s life.
We are increasingly ceding our intellectual property and that of our companies to these institutions will become a requirement as the AI arms race strengthens data-centric differentiation. This could be the moment that tips the power structure into full greed mode, breaking it completely.
By design, the next era of the web will not be controlled by a handful of monoliths that refuse to accept a powerful but light role to serve end users without overdoing it. The new internet requires fresh leadership that is willing to chart a very long-term path: a new generation of decentralized projects and startups based on the principles of user control and community governance that will help the industry adapt to the Web3 ethos.
Today’s developers are tireless in their attempts to regain power to challenge the exploitative practices of Web 2.0, operating systems, and app store constraints, so that in 10 years, decentralized organizations become the new, more benevolent ruling class and the FAANGs become service providers.
The existential threat to blockchain is that without a well-organized and strategic global marketing strategy, we will build it and no one will come. However, if we bring in a distribution partner that brings enough scale to make it profitable to build Web3 apps, developers will start testing fun things that could unlock a reward big enough to justify the risks of building for an app store that doesn’t exist yet. Developing a “killer app” matters less than being the distributor that unlocks the opportunity for developers to acquire lots of potential users.
A well-positioned operator is Telegram.
Building a base layer blockchain and associated community is a daunting task, and so far few have been able to tap into real consumer activity outside of cryptocurrencies. Every kingmaker seems to align with a new blockchain: Coinbase created BASE, FTX knighted Solana, Facebook attempted Libra, Amazon dreamed up its own chain for NFTs, and so on. The scalability of the new core levels is impressive, but it won’t be enough to win on technology alone. Deployment and operations are the scalability solution; infrastructure is becoming easier to build and may be trending towards commoditization.
The revolving door will jam when developers start sniffing out low customer acquisition costs and a huge prize in global adoption: the Telegram mini-app opportunity. Telegram mini apps are an open platform for new and emerging brands to distribute crypto-friendly games and apps. The platform supports seamless authorization and cryptocurrency and fiat payments, and allows projects to incubate, fundraise, and commercialize, all within the familiarity of Telegram’s user interface. Today, The Open Network’s (TON) strategic ties with messaging app Telegram combine both the technical capabilities to tackle Web3 and the distribution power of a top 10 mobile application and, most importantly, the credibly neutral geographic launch pad for a consumer-centric approach to Web3. TON already boasts Web3 primitives such as a wallet, an active DeFi ecosystem and tokens with a scalable Web2 user container and 900 million MAUs.
Telegram’s strategic pivot allows its app developers to align their revenue models with the long-term growth of the Web3 ecosystem. By providing critical distribution, a wallet, infrastructure and support services, they can continue to generate substantial revenues while contributing to the larger goal of a decentralized internet. This symbiotic relationship benefits both the TON blockchain and Telegram, creating a more sustainable and inclusive digital economy. Telegram has always been on the fringes of Big Tech, successfully scaling a user-centric messaging app amid stiff competition and following an unorthodox playbook: no ads or hardware moat, just great technology and user experience. Their mission-driven focus is similar to being religious about the user-centric approach for the new Internet, aligning perfectly with the consumer- and developer-driven revolution of Web3.
And while the U.S. is critical to the growth trajectory of most of today’s top 10 apps, for global crypto adoption, perhaps American MAUs are a “nice to have.” Strategically, Telegram’s go-to-market excludes the U.S. but includes the unbanked, which is more than four times the size of the US population. While it would be nice to frame this as a socially conscious decision, and it could be, it also excludes the United States by necessity due to the lack of regulatory clarity and 2020 SEC lawsuit. And the benefit demonstrated outside our borders is enormous: see Wechat’s mini-program economy that has grown to 5 million mini-programs since its launch in 2017, achieving $400 billion in annual transaction volume via apps by 2021.
In response, Telegram has enhanced the intersection between core financial services and the gaming economy. As the first platform to show a glimpse of greatness at the application level, it is finally awakening the Eastern Web3 developer community. Lately, it’s been impossible not to notice the frenzy around Notcoin (35 million users), $TON entering the top 10 of all crypto tokens, and TVL rising to a new all-time high Through STON.fi. And if the super-app use case isn’t entirely compelling, the ability to power it with Web3 will be a challenge for both X and WeChat due to geopolitical pressures and the risk to their legacy businesses. Just this week, X launched a new payments platform which does not accept cryptocurrencies. The company had acquired a broadcast license for crypto payments last yearDespite his personal support for blockchain, Elon Musk’s ambitions and obstacles with X illustrate the complexity and regulatory challenges inherent in adopting decentralized technologies within a centralized platform.
The TON ecosystem is the closest we’ve come to mainstream adoption. If successful, this could lead to larger companies like Telegram helping crypto apps converge with the mass market. If the benefits of blockchain are clear in the user value proposition, no one should have to think about whether a service runs on a blockchain or in the cloud.
As the Web3 revolution unfolds, it is clear that the race for control is not just about technology, but a fundamental reimagining of power, control and trust in the digital age. In the cryptocurrency industry, distribution is a possibility because web3 is fundamentally at odds with the business and ethics of Web 2.0.
Elimination of irrevocable data ownership, loss 30% App Store commissions. and the ability to train AI on your data, emphasizing portable identity and consumer-centric developer goals, and other general side effects of de-platforming, would drive a stake through the heart of Big Tech. It will be fascinating to watch Telegram’s role as a distributor and believer unfold as the rest of Big Tech grapples with questions of mission and purpose and decides whether to join the party in service of the protocols of the future.
Disclosure: CoinFund is an investor in STON.fia DEX on the TON blockchain and holds further exposure across the entire TON ecosystem.
Note: The opinions expressed in this column are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of CoinDesk, Inc. or its owners and affiliates.
Tech
Harvard Alumni, Tech Moguls, and Best-Selling Authors Drive Nearly $600 Million in Pre-Order Sales
BlockDAG Network’s history is one of innovation, perseverance, and a vision to push the boundaries of blockchain technology. With Harvard alumni, tech moguls, and best-selling authors at the helm, BlockDAG is rewriting the rules of the cryptocurrency game.
CEO Antony Turner, inspired by the successes and shortcomings of Bitcoin and Ethereum, says, “BlockDAG leverages existing technology to push the boundaries of speed, security, and decentralization.” This powerhouse team has led a staggering 1,600% price increase in 20 pre-sale rounds, raising over $63.9 million. The secret? Unparalleled expertise and a bold vision for the future of blockchain.
Let’s dive into BlockDAG’s success story and find out what the future holds for this cryptocurrency.
The Origin: Why BlockDAG Was Created
In a recent interview, BlockDAG CEO Antony Turner perfectly summed up why the market needs BlockDAG’s ongoing revolution. He said:
“The creation of BlockDAG was inspired by Bitcoin and Ethereum, their successes and their shortcomings.
If you look at almost any new technology, it is very rare that the first movers remain at the forefront forever. Later incumbents have a huge advantage in entering a market where the need has been established and the technology is no longer cutting edge.
BlockDAG has done just that: our innovation is incorporating existing technology to provide a better solution, allowing us to push the boundaries of speed, security, and decentralization.”
The Present: How Far Has BlockDAG Come?
BlockDAG’s presale is setting new benchmarks in the cryptocurrency investment landscape. With a stunning 1600% price increase over 20 presale lots, it has already raised over $63.9 million in capital, having sold over 12.43 billion BDAG coins.
This impressive performance underscores the overwhelming confidence of investors in BlockDAG’s vision and leadership. The presale attracted over 20,000 individual investors, with the BlockDAG community growing exponentially by the hour.
These monumental milestones have been achieved thanks to the unparalleled skills, experience and expertise of BlockDAG’s management team:
Antony Turner – Chief Executive Officer
Antony Turner, CEO of BlockDAG, has over 20 years of experience in the Fintech, EdTech, Travel and Crypto industries. He has held senior roles at SPIRIT Blockchain Capital and co-founded Axona-Analytics and SwissOne. Antony excels in financial modeling, business management and scaling growth companies, with expertise in trading, software, IoT, blockchain and cryptocurrency.
Director of Communications
Youssef Khaoulaj, CSO of BlockDAG, is a Smart Contract Auditor, Metaverse Expert, and Red Team Hacker. He ensures system security and disaster preparedness, and advises senior management on security issues.
advisory Committee
Steven Clarke-Martin, a technologist and consultant, excels in enterprise technology, startups, and blockchain, with a focus on DAOs and smart contracts. Maurice Herlihy, a Harvard and MIT graduate, is an award-winning computer scientist at Brown University, with experience in distributed computing and consulting roles, most notably at Algorand.
The Future: Becoming the Cryptocurrency with the Highest Market Cap in the World
Given its impressive track record and a team of geniuses working tirelessly behind the scenes, BlockDAG is quickly approaching the $600 million pre-sale milestone. This crypto powerhouse will soon enter the top 30 cryptocurrencies by market cap.
Currently trading at $0.017 per coin, BlockDAG is expected to hit $1 million in the coming months, with the potential to hit $30 per coin by 2030. Early investors have already enjoyed a 1600% ROI by batch 21, fueling a huge amount of excitement around BlockDAG’s presale. The platform is seeing significant whale buying, and demand is so high that batch 21 is almost sold out. The upcoming batch is expected to drive prices even higher.
Invest in BlockDAG Pre-Sale Now:
Pre-sale: https://purchase.blockdag.network
Website: https://blockdag.network
Telegram: https://t.me/blockDAGnetwork
Discord: Italian: https://discord.gg/Q7BxghMVyu
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Tech
How Karak’s Latest Tech Integration Could Make Data Breaches Obsolete
- Space and Time uses zero-knowledge proofs to ensure secure and tamper-proof data processing for smart contracts and enterprises.
- The integration facilitates faster development and deployment of Distributed Secure Services (DSS) on the Karak platform.
Karak, a platform known for its strong security capabilities, is enhancing its Distributed Secure Services (DSS) by integrating Space and Time as a zero-knowledge (ZK) coprocessor. This move is intended to strengthen trustless operations across its network, especially in slashing and rewards mechanisms.
Space and Time is a verifiable processing layer that uses zero-knowledge proofs to ensure that computations on decentralized data warehouses are secure and untampered with. This system enables smart contracts, large language models (LLMs), and enterprises to process data without integrity concerns.
The integration with Karak will enable the platform to use Proof of SQL, a new ZK-proof approach developed by Space and Time, to confirm that SQL query results are accurate and have not been tampered with.
One of the key features of this integration is the enhancement of DSS on Karak. DSS are decentralized services that use re-staked assets to secure the various operations they provide, from simple utilities to complex marketplaces. The addition of Space and Time technology enables faster development and deployment of these services, especially by simplifying slashing logic, which is critical to maintaining security and trust in decentralized networks.
Additionally, Space and Time is developing its own DSS for blockchain data indexing. This service will allow community members to easily participate in the network by running indexing nodes. This is especially beneficial for applications that require high security and decentralization, such as decentralized data indexing.
The integration architecture follows a detailed and secure flow. When a Karak slashing contract needs to verify a SQL query, it calls the Space and Time relayer contract with the required SQL statement. This contract then emits an event with the query details, which is detected by operators in the Space and Time network.
These operators, responsible for indexing and monitoring DSS activities, validate the event and route the work to a verification operator who runs the query and generates the necessary ZK proof.
The result, along with a cryptographic commitment on the queried data, is sent to the relayer contract, which verifies and returns the data to the Karak cutter contract. This end-to-end process ensures that the data used in decision-making, such as determining penalties within the DSS, is accurate and reliable.
Karak’s mission is to provide universal security, but it also extends the capabilities of Space and Time to support multiple DSSs with their data indexing needs. As these technologies evolve, they are set to redefine the secure, decentralized computing landscape, making it more accessible and efficient for developers and enterprises alike. This integration represents a significant step towards a more secure and verifiable digital infrastructure in the blockchain space.
Website | X (Twitter) | Discord | Telegram
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Tech
Cryptocurrency Payments: Should CFOs Consider This Ferrari-Approved Trend?
Iconic Italian luxury carmaker Ferrari has announced the expansion of its cryptocurrency payment system to its European dealer network.
The move, which follows a successful launch in North America less than a year ago, raises a crucial question for CFOs across industries: Is it time to consider accepting cryptocurrency as a form of payment for your business?
Ferrari’s move isn’t an isolated one. It’s part of a broader trend of companies embracing digital assets. As of 2024, we’re seeing a growing number of companies, from tech giants to traditional retailers, accepting cryptocurrencies.
This change is determined by several factors:
- Growing mainstream adoption of cryptocurrencies
- Growing demand from tech-savvy and affluent consumers
- Potential for faster and cheaper international transactions
- Desire to project an innovative brand image
Ferrari’s approach is particularly noteworthy. They have partnered with BitPay, a leading cryptocurrency payment processor, to allow customers to purchase vehicles using Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDC. This satisfies their tech-savvy and affluent customer base, many of whom have large digital asset holdings.
Navigating Opportunities and Challenges
Ferrari’s adoption of cryptocurrency payments illustrates several key opportunities for companies considering this move. First, it opens the door to new customer segments. By accepting cryptocurrency, Ferrari is targeting a younger, tech-savvy demographic—people who have embraced digital assets and see them as a legitimate form of value exchange. This strategy allows the company to connect with a new generation of affluent customers who may prefer to conduct high-value transactions in cryptocurrency.
Second, cryptocurrency adoption increases global reach. International payments, which can be complex and time-consuming with traditional methods, become significantly easier with cryptocurrency transactions. This can be especially beneficial for businesses that operate in multiple countries or deal with international customers, as it potentially reduces friction in cross-border transactions.
Third, accepting cryptocurrency positions a company as innovative and forward-thinking. In today’s fast-paced business environment, being seen as an early adopter of emerging technologies can significantly boost a brand’s image. Ferrari’s move sends a clear message that they are at the forefront of financial innovation, which can appeal to customers who value cutting-edge approaches.
Finally, there is the potential for cost savings. Traditional payment methods, especially for international transactions, often incur substantial fees. Cryptocurrency transactions, on the other hand, can offer lower transaction costs. For high-value purchases, such as luxury cars, these savings could be significant for both the business and the customer.
While the opportunities are enticing, accepting cryptocurrency payments also presents significant challenges that businesses must address. The most notable of these is volatility. Cryptocurrency values can fluctuate dramatically, sometimes within hours, posing potential risk to businesses that accept them as payment. Ferrari addressed this challenge by implementing a system that instantly converts cryptocurrency received into traditional fiat currencies, effectively mitigating the risk of value fluctuations.
Regulatory uncertainty is another major concern. The legal landscape surrounding cryptocurrencies is still evolving in many jurisdictions around the world. This lack of clear and consistent regulations can create compliance challenges for companies, especially those operating internationally. Companies must remain vigilant and adaptable as new laws and regulations emerge, which can be a resource-intensive process.
Implementation costs are also a significant obstacle. Integrating cryptocurrency payment systems often requires substantial investment in new technology infrastructure and extensive staff training. This can be especially challenging for small businesses or those with limited IT resources. The costs are not just financial; a significant investment of time is also required to ensure smooth implementation and operation.
Finally, security concerns loom large in the world of cryptocurrency transactions. While blockchain technology offers some security benefits, cryptocurrency transactions still require robust cybersecurity measures to protect against fraud, hacks, and other malicious activity. Businesses must invest in robust security protocols and stay up-to-date on the latest threats and protections, adding another layer of complexity and potential costs to accepting cryptocurrency payments.
Strategic Considerations for CFOs
If you’re thinking of following in Ferrari’s footsteps, here are the key factors to consider:
- Risk Assessment: Carefully evaluate potential risks to your business, including financial, regulatory, and reputational risks.
- Market Analysis: Evaluate whether your customer base is significantly interested in using cryptocurrencies for payments.
- Technology Infrastructure: Determine the costs and complexities of implementing a cryptographic payment system that integrates with existing financial processes.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that cryptocurrency acceptance is in line with local regulations in all markets you operate in. Ferrari’s gradual rollout demonstrates the importance of this consideration.
- Financial Impact: Analyze how accepting cryptocurrency could impact your cash flow, accounting practices, and financial reporting.
- Partnership Evaluation: Consider partnering with established crypto payment processors to reduce risk and simplify implementation.
- Employee Training: Plan comprehensive training to ensure your team is equipped to handle cryptocurrency transactions and answer customer questions.
While Ferrari’s adoption of cryptocurrency payments is exciting, it’s important to consider this trend carefully.
A CFO’s decision to adopt cryptocurrency as a means of payment should be based on a thorough analysis of your company’s specific needs, risk tolerance, and strategic goals. Cryptocurrency payments may not be right for every business, but for some, they could provide a competitive advantage in an increasingly digital marketplace.
Remember that the landscape is rapidly evolving. Stay informed about regulatory changes, technological advancements, and changing consumer preferences. Whether you decide to accelerate your crypto engines now or wait in the pit, keeping this payment option on your radar is critical to navigating the future of business transactions.
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Tech
Bitcoin Tumbles as Crypto Market Selloff Mirrors Tech Stocks’ Plunge
The world’s largest cryptocurrency, Bitcoin (BTC), suffered a significant price decline on Wednesday, falling below $65,000. The decline coincides with a broader market sell-off that has hit technology stocks hard.
Cryptocurrency Liquidations Hit Hard
CoinGlass data reveals a surge in long liquidations in the cryptocurrency market over the past 24 hours. These liquidations, totaling $220.7 million, represent forced selling of positions that had bet on price increases. Bitcoin itself accounted for $14.8 million in long liquidations.
Ethereum leads the decline
Ethereal (ETH), the second-largest cryptocurrency, has seen a steeper decline than Bitcoin, falling nearly 8% to trade around $3,177. This decline mirrors Bitcoin’s price action, suggesting a broader market correction.
Cryptocurrency market crash mirrors tech sector crash
The cryptocurrency market decline appears to be linked to the significant losses seen in the U.S. stock market on Wednesday. Stock market listing The index, heavily weighted toward technology stocks, posted its sharpest decline since October 2022, falling 3.65%.
Analysts cite multiple factors
Several factors may have contributed to the cryptocurrency market crash:
- Tech earnings are underwhelming: Earnings reports from tech giants like Alphabet are disappointing (Google(the parent company of), on Tuesday, triggered a sell-off in technology stocks with higher-than-expected capital expenditures that could have repercussions on the cryptocurrency market.
- Changing Political Landscape: The potential impact of the upcoming US elections and changes in Washington’s policy stance towards cryptocurrencies could influence investor sentiment.
- Ethereal ETF Hopes on the line: While bullish sentiment around a potential U.S. Ethereum ETF initially boosted the market, delays or rejections could dampen enthusiasm.
Analysts’ opinions differ
Despite the short-term losses, some analysts remain optimistic about Bitcoin’s long-term prospects. Singapore-based cryptocurrency trading firm QCP Capital believes Bitcoin could follow a similar trajectory to its post-ETF launch all-time high, with Ethereum potentially converging with its previous highs on sustained institutional interest.
Rich Dad Poor Dad Author’s Prediction
Robert Kiyosaki, author of the best-selling Rich Dad Poor Dad, predicts a potential surge in the price of Bitcoin if Donald Trump is re-elected as US president. He predicts a surge to $105,000 per coin by August 2025, fueled by a weaker dollar that is set to boost US exports.
BTC/USD Technical Outlook
Bitcoin price is currently trading below key support levels, including the $65,500 level and the 100 hourly moving average. A break below the $64,000 level could lead to further declines towards the $63,200 support zone. However, a recovery above the $65,500 level could trigger another increase in the coming sessions.
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