Moon Mag #25

A note from Lisa…

Here at TheMoonMag.com, we preach all things security and understanding how data privacy and how to keep your crypto safe, and I would be a hypocrite if I didn’t practice what I preach!

Recently, I made a tough call to pull out of a crypto conference that asked for my passport to be emailed—an insecure method. Email is the least secure form of sending anything, as it can be easily forwarded and get into the wrong hands at the click of a button. Everyone, at some stage, has added the wrong contact to an email… Imagine that was your passport, essentially your identity in the wrong hands.

The incident highlights a larger issue: the careless handling of sensitive information. The United Nations is recognising that this is a serious issue and has put standards in place, and 80% of the world has adopted some type of legislation, albeit 9% of those are still in draft format.

The image below shows which countries are lacking, and the conference was not at one of these; in fact, was at what I would call an innovation leader.

https://unctad.org/page/data-protection-and-privacy-legislation-worldwide

I also told another crypto infuencer that is booked to speak at the same conference about this issue and warned him; the response was, “I can’t see how someone could obtain your private keys from your passport details, but I get the concern.”

He is correct. They can’t get my private keys, but what about your crypto on exchanges? What about your phone, what about opening credit cards in your name?

Data security is important because it protects sensitive information from unauthorised access, prevents breaches, fnancial losses, and cyberattacks, maintains trust, ensures legal compliance, and supports economic stability. It also safeguards personal privacy and intellectual property and prevents espionage and cyberbullying.

So next time you go to send your driver’s licence or passport, think twice. Sending sensitive data like passports via email is risky. Email lacks encryption, making interception by hackers likely. This jeopardises privacy, enabling identity theft and fraud.

My decision to withdraw doesn’t discredit the crypto sector. It underscores the need for secure communication. We must demand encryption and data protection.

Let my choice be a reminder: as the crypto industry matures, data security must come frst, and we will continue to bring you the Moon Mag in the hope so of this information sticks!

I hope you enjoy this issue as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you!

A note from Josh…

At the time of writing (August 2023), the crypto market is incredibly sideways, dull, and people are twiddling their thumbs. Or perhaps it’s not by the time this editorial goes to print? Perhaps we have volatility back? But for now, it feels and has felt for a long time, like the twiddle your thumbs part of the market. Unless you’re an avid reader of the Moon Mag, in which case you’ll have been spending this downtime diving into new projects, lining up potential picks for investment, confguring your HODL bags and generally building up your knowledge of the world of crypto.

In this issue, you’ll fnd an article written by yours truly (for the frst time in checks notes TWO YEARS). It’s not that I don’t wish to write.... more so that we have incredibly good writers amongst our network who get frst dibs on articles. My article is a little more personal as I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Lisa for the last two years and I’ve learnt some incredible things just by observation alone. It’s time I shared that knowledge, so I have written about the art of trading like Lisa. She already has a word for her method of using the Fibonacci indicator, aptly named Lisanacci, so this is a glimpse into the Elliot-Wave-turned-Lisa-Wave Theory and some of the habits that make up the weave of her trading magic. For all those who truly wish to #BeLikeLisa, it’s a must-read. Enjoy!

SPONSORS

We are incredibly grateful to the following sponsors for their support. We run a ‘Sponsor A Writer’ campaign where crypto projects take part in an altruistic act of sponsoring our talented writers. By doing so, they play a crucial role in keeping the crypto economy alive and thriving, not only for our readership, but for the writers who provide

DISCLAIMER

All the content provided for you as part of the Moon Mag has been researched thoroughly and to the best of our ability however it is your choice, and your choice only, whether you wish to invest or participate in any of the projects. We cannot be held responsible for your decisions and the consequences of your actions. We do not provide fnancial advice. Please DYOR and above all, enjoy the content!

CONTRIBUTORS

Daniel has been a blockchain technology evangelist since 2012 and is a faithful believer in the Crypto ecosystem. Daniel also writes for Coin Telegraph!

Freelance journalist dedicated to digital media, enthusiast of the crypto ecosystem and disruptive technologies. MDC writer since 2018, currently writer for CryptoTrendencia.

R.Paulo Delgado

R.Paulo Delgado is a crypto and fntech journalist, freelance writer, and ghost writer. He cut his teeth as a web and software developer for 17 years. Now he uses those skills to write tech, business, and fnancial content for various businesses and news publications.

Chrom

Chrom here, your friendly blockchain wordsmith! I joined the crypto party in 2017, have worn many hats, and I consider myself Jack of all trades. Been working as a DAO contributor, start-up advisor & research leader. Armed with a knack for turning technical jargon into engaging content. I fuse quirkiness and professionalism to deliver informative, optimistic writing that resonates with readers.

Samantha Jimenez

Daniel Jimenez

written by Lisa N. Edwards

THE TRADING STRATEGIES THAT

CAN MAKE YOU A MILLIONAIRE!

One million dollars always seems to be a magic number when you think about getting rich.

One million dollars!

It’s a fgure that holds an undeniable allure, making us daydream about what life would be like with such wealth. Achieving this fnancial milestone often seems like a distant dream, but what if I told you there are trading strategies that make it possible?

Before you raise an eyebrow and get your pinky fnger ready for the Dr Evil pose, let’s delve into the frst idea of a trading strategy that has a potential 3% daily return, compounded, and explore its feasibility across diferent asset classes, including cryptocurrencies.

The 3% Daily Return: Fact or Fiction?

The notion of a trading strategy yielding a consistent 3% daily return might sound incredibly appealing, but it’s essential to approach such claims with a healthy dose of scepticism.

While there are successful traders who have achieved extraordinary returns over short periods, sustaining a 3% daily return in the long run is an entirely diferent challenge.

The Reality Check:

Market Volatility and Risk Financial markets, whether stocks, commodities, or cryptocurrencies, are inherently volatile. They are infuenced by a myriad of factors, including economic events, geopolitical developments, and technological advancements. This volatility introduces an element of risk that can make consistent daily returns of 3% or more exceedingly difcult.

Compounding: A Powerful Tool.

Compounding is a powerful concept that has the potential to turn a small initial investment into a substantial fortune over time. When profts are reinvested, they generate further returns on top of the original capital. While compounding can signifcantly boost returns, it’s not a guarantee of continuous success, especially at an ambitious rate like 3% per day. There needs to be an element of accuracy.

Day Trading and Emotional Strain: A trading strategy aiming for a 3% daily return is often associated with day trading, where positions are opened and closed within the same trading day. Day trading can be mentally and emotionally taxing due to its fast-paced nature. Making quick decisions under pressure can lead to impulsive actions, potentially eroding profts. This is where a trading plan comes in. During Bear Markets, as we have had over the past year, daily 3% trades are unlikely, especially when the market is sideways and fat. A strong element of patience is needed in these scenarios.

Cryptocurrencies: Can be a Wild Ride.

I have been trading crypto since the beginning; the wild west days had crazy volatility. They have garnered signifcant attention as an asset class known for its extreme volatility. While some traders have capitalized on rapid price swings, others have sufered substantial losses. It’s crucial to recognize that cryptocurrencies while ofering high potential rewards, come with commensurate risks.

The Dangers of Unrealistic Expectations

Promises of extraordinary returns in a short timeframe are red fags in the trading world. Such claims often accompany scams or Ponzi schemes that exploit individuals’ desires for quick riches. Responsible investors and traders should be cautious of anything that appears too good to be true.

Strategies for Sustainable Growth

While a 3% daily return might not be a realistic goal, there are proven trading strategies that can lead to sustainable growth over time. Diversifcation, risk management, and a long-term perspective are essential components of a prudent trading approach. Learning from experienced traders, staying informed about market trends, and continuously improving your trading skills are critical aspects of success.

As I always say, Pursue Patience, Not Pipe Dreams.

While the idea of becoming a millionaire through trading is undeniably alluring, the pursuit of such ambitious daily returns is often an unrealistic and a risky endeavour. So spread it out, and give yourself breathing space to move with the market. REMEMBER - Financial markets are not a magical genie that grants instant wealth but rather a complex ecosystem that requires careful navigation.

Instead of chasing elusive get-rich-quick schemes, aspiring traders should focus on developing sound strategies, managing risk efectively, and understanding that consistent success takes time, patience, and continuous learning. This is why the ThousandToMillions.com challenge is an important learning tool.

By adopting a responsible and realistic approach, you can increase your chances of achieving your fnancial goals and potentially secure a brighter future.

So, let’s put the Dr Evil pinky fnger down and start trading wisely!

Here are some general steps to create a compound trading strategy with a target of 3% per day starting with $1000 USD in crypto:

1. Use technical analysis: Technical analysis can help you identify trends and patterns in the market and make informed decisions about when to buy and sell your crypto assets. This may include using charts and indicators to identify price levels, support and resistance levels, and other key metrics.

2. Use a risk management strategy: As with any trading strategy, it’s important to have a risk management strategy in place. This may include setting stop-loss orders to limit your losses and using leverage and margin carefully.

3. You should aim for 3% per day. It’s probably not possible to get from $1,000 to $1,000,000 without losses, so this will also be a test of patience and emotions. If you do incur losses, do not revenge trade.

4. Reinvest your profts: To compound your returns, reinvest your profts into your portfolio rather than spending them. This means letting your profts grow over time and using the power of compounding to accelerate your returns.

5. It’s a lower risk to TRADE SPOT, but if you must trade margin, you must not get greedy or forget about your money management, as there is a much higher risk if the market moves against you. While in spot you may lose greater than your 3% without a stop loss, it’s not as bad a margin where you could be completely liquidated and lose everything.

Maybe the 3% Compound strategy is not for you, Try the RULE OF 72.

What Is the Rule of 72 for Crypto Investments?

The Rule of 72 works for investors with PATIENCE!!!!

That’s the keyword here (unless in a bull market, where everything moves). Then it is all about which coins to pick, and knowing which ones and what time is defnitely a skill not for the faint-hearted.

Recent Bull Markets and Degen coins, like $Pepe, have seen crypto investors double their investment and achieve a 100% proft. And that’s the start of how this formula works.

IT’S SIMPLE!

It’s a simple formula used to estimate the number of trades required to double the initial investment - 100% Proft is the doubling point!

The Rule of 72 comes in handy for these mental calculations, providing a close approximation without the need for complex formulas or fnancial tools.

APPLYING THE RULE OF 72

To apply the Rule of 72 to reaching ONE MILLION DOLLARS!:

We are rewriting the rule of 72, with 10.1% per trade investment - compounded in 72 Trades to $1,000,000! Sounds too good to be true, but in all fairness, even with a stop loss or 5, it’s likely under a hundred trades!

The “Traditional” Rule of 72 suggests that with consistent long-term market returns, you can potentially double your money approximately every 7.2 years. This means that after 7.2 years, your initial investment could grow to $200,000; in 14.4 years, it might reach $400,000; after 21.6 years, it could be $800,000; and by 28.8 years, it might amount to $1.6 million. Keep in mind that these fgures are approximate and subject to market fuctuations.

THAT’S A LONG TIME… 28.8years! I don’t know what I’m doing in a month… let alone 28.8 years!

The Rule of 72 is an important concept that has historical signifcance and relevance in popular culture. It is often associated with a famous quote attributed to Albert Einstein, which highlights the signifcance of compound interest.

Let’s break it down in simpler terms:

The Rule of 72 is a handy technique used to estimate how long it takes for an investment to double in value. You can do this by dividing the interest rate into 72.

For example, if your investment earns 8% interest, it would take around 9 years (72 divided by 8) for your initial amount to double.

Although this method isn’t 100% precise, it’s remarkably close to the exact result, and that’s why it’s widely used. But here’s an interesting fact: The Rule of 72 was not actually invented by Albert Einstein. It was frst mentioned about 400 years before he was born by an Italian friar named Luca Pacioli. Pacioli wrote about it in his book “Summa de arithmetica geometria, proporzioni et proporzionalita” in 1494. This book covered various topics like arithmetic, algebra, geometry, accounting, and weights and measures.

It’s fascinating how the Rule of 72 and Colour Accounting share a similarity. Both of them simplify complex problems, making it easy for almost anyone to fnd the answers they seek. So, understanding these concepts can be like unlocking a hidden treasure of knowledge that connects us to both the past and modern times.

What if you could do this quicker with a bit more risk attached? You’d still do this, right?

Let me explain the “NEW IMPROVED” Rule of 72 for crypto investments in a bear market. If your average trade return is 10.1%, it would take around 72 trades to double your initial investment, starting with $1,000 compounded.

Traditionally the rule of 72 was the below.

To double your crypto investment in 3 months, you’d need an expected rate of return of approximately 24% (72 / 3 = 24). That’s ONLY 3 trades in 3 months to double your money!

However, keep in mind that the Rule of 72 is most accurate for interest rates between 6% and 10%, which is suitable for crypto investments with trading expertise.

I just literally told someone ‘Who needs algebra and algorithms?’ And here we are �this is what the rule looks like written algorithmically.

You can adjust the rule for return rates outside this range by adding or subtracting 1 from 72 for every 3 percentage points the rate deviates from the given percentage.

Remember, the Rule of 72 applies to compounded trade rates, which can be achieved in the crypto market by reinvesting gains for greater returns over time.

But please be aware that cryptocurrency investments carry inherent risks due to the market’s high volatility and rapid price fuctuations. For more precise projections, use spreadsheets or fnancial calculators (available here - Start up Kit) you can change the percentage amount, and this, in turn, will change the number of trades needed.

As always, thorough research and risk assessment are crucial for making informed investment decisions in the cryptocurrency space.

And remember, NEVER invest money that you can’t aford to lose.

With these strategies in hand, stop dreaming of being a millionaire and get out there and do the work… with a healthy dose of patience, of course!

And if at any point you need a helping hand GettingStartedinCrypto.com is just a click away to try for $15 for a week!

The Metaverse: Dead Or Alive?

written by Daniel Jimenez

Two years ago, this title question might have gone unnoticed.

However, the current reality is vastly diferent, with the rise of generative AI and Meta’s setbacks in the sector (although not hurting stock price) leading many to prematurely bury the Metaverse, dismissing it as an old and outdated narrative.

Yet, upon delving deeper into this feld, one quickly realises that the truth difers signifcantly from what the tech media has been portraying in recent months.

ARE THERE TOO MANY?

To many? The metaverse is not even in its infancy; rather, it is akin to an unborn concept, faintly visible within the womb of a vast technological realm, much like an ultrasound scan.

While I don’t prefer to take sides, I frmly believe that the potential of the Metaverse is immense for the next decade. It could follow a similar trajectory to the fedgling autonomous vehicle industry in terms of the time it takes for development, conception, and widespread adoption.

These convictions are strengthened by the evidence we have uncovered while immersing ourselves in this promising technology sector that revolves around the decentralised world.

As we explore the underlying principles, it becomes evident that the Metaverse is far from dead and continues to hold promise for the future.

Metaverse: A brief recap

Since we addressed the topic of the Metaverse in our second issue, several things have changed that have slowed the development of this technology for immediate consumption by the main drivers, Meta and Microsoft.

Apple’s launch of augmented reality headsets has brought the focus back to rebalancing between the AI boom and the potential for digitized worlds parallel to our physical reality.

While the Apple Vision Pro is considered by many to be a small catalyst in this ocean called the Metaverse, some additional software and hardware elements that function as underlying technologies have yet to come together to make the Metaverse a reality.

Source: Gartner

Although we are in the midst of a crypto winter that seems to have spread to the metaverse sector, there is no doubt that the concept of the Metaverse as an immersive, 3D Internet experience technology is not going away.

Beyond the closure of Microsoft’s Altspace VR, Meta’s reported multi-billion dollar losses in the sector, and the struggles of Web3 technology, there is a strong inclination towards focused funding for developing multiple metaverse-related technologies, as Gartner’s infographic explains.

According to a McKinsey report, more than $120 billion will get invested in creating metaverserelated technologies in 2023 alone, more than double that of the previous year.

McKinsey’s numbers are also in line with MarketWatch, which notes that the global metaverse market got valued at more than $100 billion in 2022, and it expects to grow to $1.52 trillion by 2029, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 48%.

Not least, the move by asset management giants such as BlackRock to establish an ETF focused on a wide range of technology companies related to the metaverse, such as Nvidia, Apple, Qualcomm, Microsoft and others, is an indication that the future looks bright.

Metaverses and Cryptocurrencies: A fascinating combination not far from reality

At this point, you may be wondering, what does all this have to do with cryptocurrencies? Simple: The decentralized metaverse has been around long before Meta announced its strategic name change focused on this sector. And every decentralized metaverse runs its economy based on its native token.

More interestingly, NFTs have played a leading role in the last two years in establishing more decentralised digital experiences for users of metaverses, regardless of their centralized nature or not. The idea, after all, is that users are encouraged and favored toarse new digital experiences.

An example of these worlds coming together happened recently when Apple, during WWDC, introduced Octane X, a GPU rendering feature directly related to the Render token (RNDR), as Otoy is the company behind the Render Network and Octane.

Similarly, AppleStore’s openness towards decentralised metaverses focused on GameFi games, such as Axie Infnity or Stepn, presumes that the company’s bet on decentralized options is not far from being a reality that can be emulated by its competitors, boosting this cryptocurrency sector.

The open-source and decentralized narrative is also gaining momentum as the market matures, and many speculate that the next startup, like OpenAI, is close to driving the metaverse sector, similar to Google, when it dominated search engines, Facebook social networking, and so on.

As happened recently with the hype around ChatGPT, many AI-focused projects, such as Singularity or The Graph, benefted from the upward rally driven by the artifcial intelligence boom.

Something similar could happen if the metaverse follows its natural course of development and improvement before ‘the big thing’ hits the market and causes a signifcant tipping point that benefts decentralised options that have been in constant evolution for several years.

For now, interest in the metaverse seems to be gaining traction even at the corporate level, where it is already possible to see its application in marketing and advertising, followed by immersive shopping in the style of a dynamic 3D Amazon and product simulations as recently attempted by well-known physical world brands such as Nike, Lego or CocaCola in virtual spaces such as Roblox, Minecraft, Fortnite, Decentraland and The Sandbox, among others.

Projects to consider

As we have seen, the innovation and development of technologies encompassing the metaverse at

both centralized and decentralized levels have not stopped.

At the decentralized level, our primary focus, several solutions have emerged that may play a leading role in the future, as the technological concept of the metaverse crosses the barriers of acceptance and adoption at all societal levels.

Beyond the traditional options such as Decentraland, Somnium Space or The Sandbox, other projects seek to push the adoption of the metaverse into the next generation.

According to Coingecko, there are around 121 projects that, in one way or another, involve the metaverse concept in their business proposition. Each of these projects has its native token, and together they form a market cap of $6.9B.

Let us explore some relevant options, in terms of their developmental and evolutionary activity, that underpin their possible future adoption, making them an excellent early-stage entry opportunity that could generate great returns when the metaverse wave has reached its full wave amplitude.

The Render Network

In the tenth issue of our magazine, we observed this project’s potential.If you want to learn more about The Render Network and its RNDR token, we invite you to read our excellent post on page 36:

Issue #10 - The Moon Mag

Render has had an excellent showing since its appearance at WWDC and its potential partnership with Apple. The project is unique in its style and addresses one of the underlying problems for the successful development of the metaverse: rendering through GPU computing power through a decentralized economy empowered by its native token.

Over the past few months, the Render Network ecosystem has grown on multiple fronts - from technical improvements to expanded community programs. Its RNDR token ranks among the top 100 tokens, with a market cap of almost $700 million.

If the good news and continued development for the Render Network continue, the price of its token may recover from its ATH reached about a year ago, when it peaked at $8.78, 78.5% higher than the current trading price.

MetaHero

If there is one thing that characterises this project, it is its revolutionary commitment to establishing a kind of B2B marketplace for avatars. MetaHero allows you to scan the user and create a digital replica that users can sell to earn native HERO tokens.

More interesting is MetaHero’s vision as a blockchain-based platform, which wants to incorporate advanced 3D scanning and modelling techniques into real-life sectors such as healthcare, e-commerce and gaming, where users can see themselves as in-game NPC characters.

It is one of the frst metaverse projects that aim to have hyper-realistic and updatable scans, allowing, for example, health professionals to have accurate biometric details from anywhere in the world without the need to travel for prosthetics, regenerative therapies, medical treatments, etc.

If the project succeeds in capitalizing on its vision and becomes an important solution beyond gaming, thus help its HERO token rise in the overall cryptocurrency ranking with a higher market cap.

MetaScape

Unlike its direct centralized competitor Horizon Worlds (by Meta), MetaScape introduces the concept of Metaverse-as-a-service (MaaS) in a decentralized way to provide the tools and infrastructure users need to create their own metaverse experiences.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vjDvKXybaDw

The key diference from Meta is that users maintain digital creations ownership through non-fungible tokens (NFTs), so companies or users always have control over their creations.

The platform developed by Vulgan Forged, an established NFT game studio and dApp incubator, also ofers a marketplace for created assets, a development toolkit, and a training program for metaverse developers.

While the project is still in its early stages, it has the potential to fll the shortcomings of Horizon Worlds by incorporating a decentralized approach with a wide range of services that can enable entrepreneurs of all sizes to create and deploy successful experiences in the digital world.

MetaScape envisions the use of the Vulgan Forged utility token, PYR, an ERC-20/ Polygon compatible token. The PYR token, like many others in the metaverse sector, is a long way from its ATH reached in 2021, suggesting that it may be a good time to get in on the promise of MetaScape’s vision.

Floki

According to Coinmarketcap, the most popular metaverse coin in the frst half of 2023 is Floki. While Floki started as a meme token at the beginning of the project, it has now expanded its functionalities to a vast ecosystem in its most recent roadmap released this year.

Among the milestones proposed by the Floki team is Valhalla, FLOKI’s NFT Metaverse game that aims to tap into the $1 trillion Metaverse industry.

A team that includes blockchain industry and gaming veterans (2 Unity developers)is developing Valhalla, promising to deliver the completed project on the mainnet by Q4-2023.

Space Metaverse

Space is a virtual world for commerce that allows creators to build and share their experiences using their AR-compatible builder, with the ability to generate and monetize spaces for shops, events, or galleries. SPACE citizens use non-fungible tokens to retain ownership of their assets and rights to these experiences.

The Space team is part of OMA3, a consortium of the top metaverse companies in Web3 that aims to build the standards and infrastructure to enable the user-owned and user-controlled metaverse. The consortium is working on the Inter-World Portaling System (IWPS) to allow users to travel between several web3 metaverses such as Sandbox, My Neighbour Alice, Alien World, Upland, Space, and Superworld.

Major brands such as Animoca Brands, Dapper Labs, and Behance Labs support this project.Although it does not have a token yet, it would be interesting to keep an eye out for its launch and take advantage of early-stage entry.

Keep following them

The previously mentioned projects are just a small appendix of the development of the metaverse sector in the web ecosystem3. Of course, the big titans of this sector in the blockchain industry, such as The Sandbox or Decentraland, continue to generate important milestones telling us that the best is yet to come and opportunities are just around the corner.

More recent projects, such as Illuvium, Star Atlas, or MetaGravity, are clear examples of the next generation of gaming-focused metaverse propositions that aim to scale the sector to a wider audience, with immense opportunities for early entrants.

Final Thoughts

The web-based metaverse ecosystem3 has future potential once the narrative about these virtual worlds is back on the community’s radar.

While it is true that many long-standing projects such as Decentraland, Sandbox, Enjin, Illuvium, Axie Infnity, or Somnium Space allow from diferent angles an approximation of what this technology will deliver in the future, there are many less popular projects that are betting with novel proposals to captivate the masses in various sectors of daily life.

With diverse proposals ranging from the classic gamingfocused metaverse to those seeking to serve society through medical, e-commerce, or virtual entertainment proposals, the options for capitalising on this winter that extends into the metaverse are many and varied.

Be sure to follow the sector trends and the development news that each of these projects ofers daily from all corners of the industry to create a more immersive and inclusive digital world.

It’s just a matter of doing your due diligence (DYOR) and expanding your vision beyond the conventional.

written by Chris

Ecoterra: a blockchain ecosystem for user rewards and company action on

Key Insights

• Ecoterra is leveraging blockchain and AI to improve global recycling initiatives and combat climate change.

• The platform has a three-step ScanRecycle-Earn model to encourage recycling and reward users with Ecoterra tokens.

• The Ecoterra app enables users to instantly scan recyclable items and get rewarded for their green actions.

• Ecoterra’s blockchain technology ensures transparency, eliminates intermediaries, reducing costs and risks.

• Ecoterra tokens can be spent, sold, staked or donated to support green projects globally.

• NFTs are issued as Certifcates of Contribution, adding another layer of value to the platform.

climate change.

Introduction

Ecoterra is pioneering a new path in the battle against climate change, crafting a nexus of sustainability, technology, and convenience. The cornerstone of its mission is to simplify the recycling process, facilitating engagement from individuals to large corporations.

Ecoterra brings a self-sustaining, circular ecosystem built upon fve mainstays. The frst is a vigorous push towards recycling, ofering customised plans that reward green activities. The second mainstay is the establishment of a Recycling Marketplace, a lively platform fostering a culture of product reuse and recycling, ultimately shrinking landfll waste. The third pillar is their emphasis on education - the mission to ensure that everyone, from big businesses to everyday folks, truly understands the need for and how to follow sustainable practices. The fourth aspect is the creation of a streamlined Carbon Ofset Marketplace where users are empowered to contribute to verifable, emission-curbing projects. Rounding of the fve pillars, Ecoterra utilises the power of blockchain technology to ensure transparency and security while building a community of eco-minded individuals.

These elements collectively form the bedrock of Ecoterra’s approach to combatting climate change. As you explore more about Ecoterra, you’ll uncover what makes them tick - their mission, their unique use of tech, and how they’re shaking up the recycling and carbon ofsetting industry. You’re about to explore Ecoterra’s potential and discover how you, as an individual, can be a part of this greener future. Grab your favourite cuppa, get comfortable, and let us begin this deep dive.

Background

Ecoterra’s vision is to combat climate change - a controversial topic in the spotlight for decades, slowly escalating from a distant threat to an immediate crisis. The signs are all around us: rising temperatures, devastating wildfres, catastrophic storms, and melting ice caps, each event sounding a desperate alarm that’s becoming harder and harder to ignore.

Ecoterra believes the consequences will escalate, afecting everything from food security to public health. The pursuit of net zero emissions isn’t solely

an academic exercise to curb global warming. It’s about a collective endeavour to protect the planet.

With these challenges in mind, Ecoterra was born. Its founders, confronted with the grim reality of climate change and the urgent need for net zero solutions, committed to taking action.

The quest was clear: transition the world to a net zero state.

The magnitude of their aim wasn’t lost on them. It meant tackling emissions head-on, sinking money into technology that traps and stores carbon, and lending their voice to sustainable policies. But the scale of the task didn’t faze them; instead, it stoked their fervour, reinforcing the idea that everyone can chip in, contributing to the grand scheme of things.

Thus began Ecoterra’s mission to combat climate change and facilitate a transition to a net zero future. While exploring what makes Ecoterra unique, you’ll discover how their vision transformed into action and their impact in the quest for a greener, more sustainable world.

Team & Founders

The driving force behind Ecoterra is a dynamic duo who combined their entrepreneurial prowess and ecological commitment to create a revolutionary solution. Both founders have a deep background in the industry, being the owners of one of Romania’s most successful recycling companies.

• Mihai Ciutureanu, CEO - Brings to the table his experience in digital marketing and leadership from heading a top-tier digital agency.

• Gabriel Ceachir, CSO - A business leader with a proven track record in improving waste management in Eastern Europe.

• Cristian Ghizari, COO - An entrepreneur, passionate about sustainability, instrumental in a leading recycling frm.

• Valentin Tudor, Software Developer - Creator of ClipShare, committed to delivering user-friendly tech solutions.

• Robert Aliuta, Blockchain Developer - A fast-learning developer with a knack for mastering new technologies.

• Anita Nitulescu, Marketing Manager - A video director and marketing expert with experience in creating impactful content for top brands.

They have a longstanding record in the environmental services sector, working closely with large companies to manage their waste responsibly. They are forming a bridge between businesses and various recycling organisations, ensuring that companies comply with environmental regulations by outsourcing their waste management needs to certifed recyclers.

But the process is far from perfect. It is complicated, cloaked in bureaucracy, lacked transparency, making it frustrating for many businesses. Recognising these hurdles as an opportunity, they were set to restructure the whole system.

They envisioned a platform that would automate the entire process, shedding light on the often murky practises of waste management and recycling.

The Catalyst for Ecoterra’s Development

Recycling as an integral part of environmental strategies has seen increasing interest from corporations and consumers. However, several practical challenges often stand in the way:

• 39% lack convenient access to recycling facilities.

• 35% face space constraints for additional recycling bins.

• 29% fnd it hard to spare time for proper waste separation.

Ecoterra provides an innovative solution, utilising blockchain technology to make recycling more transparent and appealing. Moreover, it gives a personal incentive to recycle by introducing the ‘Recycle-to-Earn’ (R2E) system, one of the most distinctive features.

The R2E system rewards each recycling action with Ecoterra tokens. This combination of education and incentivisation is the critical catalyst that could drive the success of Ecoterra.

Current Stats

Ofcial Links

Website: https://www.ecoterra.io

Whitepaper: https://www.ecoterra.io/documents/whitepaper-ecoterra.pdf

Discord: https://discord.gg/Bc9qPUzmX4

Telegram: https://t.me/ecoterraio

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ecoterraio

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ecoterra3r

Audit: https://www.certik.com/projects/ ecoterra

Medium: https://medium.com/@eco_terra:

Tokenomics

Ecoterra’s tokenomics demonstrate a strategic plan aimed at establishing both short and long-term project stability. A successful presale raised over $6 million, showcasing the interest and confdence of early participants. The signifcant allocation of 50% to presale investors, however, may cause concerns for potential new investors about the token’s price stability.

Contract Address

0x982b50

55394641cA975a0eEc630b120b671391a

Symbol ECOTERRA

Decimals 9 Network Ethereum ERC-20

On the positive side:

• The vesting periods applied to most allocations, such as Ecosystem LP and Marketing, could help maintain price stability by preventing large immediate sell-ofs.

• Allocation to listings could enhance the token’s reach and liquidity.

• The extended vesting period for the team’s allocation is a commitment to their project’s long-term success.

On the fip side:

• The substantial allocation to presale investors might discourage new investors due to concerns about price volatility if presale investors decide to sell their tokens all at once.

• The 5% team allocation might raise some questions about the long-term motivation of the team.

In essence, while the tokenomics of Ecoterra bear a thoughtful design with a focus on stability and growth, prospective investors must weigh the potential pros and cons before investing.

Ecoterra’s Value Proposition and Utility

Ecoterra is revolutionising how we approach recycling. It’s about merging green habits with the digital age, transforming trash into treasure. As an individual, imagine being rewarded just for being eco-conscious, and not just an ordinary reward, but one with potential and opportunities.

Earn as You Recycle: With Ecoterra, your everyday recycling eforts will earn you ecoterra tokens. It is as efortless as recycling and watching your wallet grow. But there is more to these tokens than meets the eye.

Passive Earnings: Unlike the fat money you’d receive at recycling vending machines, ecoterra tokens can be staked. This means you can earn passive dividends from Ecoterra’s revenue stream.

Support the Environment: With these tokens, you can buy carbon credits via Ecoterra’s carbon ofset marketplace. That’s your green thumb working wonders, backing environmental projects.

Education Access: Ecoterra token holders will soon have the chance to tap into Ecoterra’s educational resources, expanding their knowledge while enhancing their positive impact on our planet.

NFT Rewards: Ecoterra is about recognising those who do good. By supporting Ecoterra’s environmental projects, you can receive NFTs as rewards. It’s a neat way to show of your impact score.

But Ecoterra isn’t just for individuals. Businesses too have a lot to gain.

Businesses Embracing Ecoterra’s Recycling Plans

If your business is focused on reclaiming a targeted quantity of recyclables from consumers, Ecoterra presents itself as the perfect ally. This isn’t just about material recovery; it’s a broader commitment to fostering a more sustainable world.

Each purchase of a recycling plan sends a contribution to one or more of the environmental projects Ecoterra promotes.

Once Ecoterra’s green education initiative is available, part of your contribution will be automatically directed there too. You also get valuable insights into audience preferences thanks to Ecoterra’s product database and user profles. This is an opportunity to hit your target audience, increase your reach, and encourage proper waste management among your buyers.

Businesses Purchasing Raw Materials

If you’re a business keen on promoting a circular product lifecycle, then this is your arena. Ecoterra ofers a diverse range of recycled raw materials. Customise requests according to your needs, from type to quantity, frequency, and quality.

You also get to ofset your voluntary carbon emissions quickly, while supporting verifed projects. And in the process, you get a transparent assessment of your involvement in combating climate change via Ecoterra’s total impact score. There’s even a cherry on top - NFT rewards that can be held, sold, or traded.

Ecoterra isn’t just your ordinary DeFi protocol - it’s a movement. It’s about turning recycling into an opportunity. Ecoterra provides an opportunity for everyone - individuals and businesses alike - to contribute to preserving our planet, all while earning valuable rewards for their eforts.

So, are you ready to get recycling?

Ecoterra’s Ecosystem

As we delve deeper into the mechanics of Ecoterra, it’s crucial to understand the backbone of this endeavour - its ecosystem. A potent mix of technology, education and the marketplace, this unique combination sets Ecoterra apart in the realm of sustainability.

The Recycling Marketplace

The crux of Ecoterra’s ecosystem is its recycling marketplace, a digital platform bridging businesses and recycling companies. Think of it as a bustling town square where companies meet recyclers to exchange waste for raw materials. This marketplace accelerates transactions with full transparency by creating a single point of interaction.

Recyclers convert waste into raw materials, which are then listed for sale on the marketplace. Businesses can readily buy these materials for manufacturing or request specifc materials not yet available.

From deciding the type, and quantity, to the frequency and quality of the material, companies have the liberty to customise their requirements.

What’s fascinating is that the marketplace ofers a variety of payment options, from traditional fat currency to stablecoins like USDT, and Bitcoin to Ecoterra tokens. An added beneft for those opting for Ecoterra tokens is the lower transaction fees. And it doesn’t stop there; the more transactions recycling companies complete, the more Ecoterra tokens they can earn.

Educating for Change

Education is a cornerstone of Ecoterra’s ecosystem. With a keen focus on providing users with credible, impactful knowledge, Ecoterra is soon launching its green education platform. This isn’t about blindly gaining support for climate change action; it’s about helping users grasp the adverse efects of global warming and associated risks.

The platform will boast interactive and reliable content, creating an enriching space for both individuals and businesses wishing to support Ecoterra’s initiative. As the adage goes, knowledge is power, and with this platform, Ecoterra aims to empower users to make informed, positive changes.

Carbon Ofset Marketplace

The fnal piece of Ecoterra’s ecosystem is the Carbon Ofset Marketplace. With carbon markets providing a critical pathway to meet emission goals, Ecoterra ofers a marketplace for mandatory and voluntary carbon credits.

Mandatory carbon ofsets, or MCMs, are typically required by law for countries or organisations. As of 2021, the MCM market was valued at around $271 billion, expanding by 128% from 2008. On the other hand, voluntary carbon ofsets or VCMs, often purchased by environmentally conscious organisations and individuals, reached nearly $2 billion in 2021, quadrupling since 2020.

A variety of projects help reduce or remove carbon, spanning sectors like forestry, renewable energy, and carbon storage. However, the credibility of these projects remains a challenge. Addressing this issue is the VCS Program developed by Verra. This mechanism accredits projects that reduce or remove carbon emissions, and once a project is certifed, its credibility is assured.

Ecoterra’s Carbon Ofset Marketplace aims to connect these certifed VCS projects with crypto and noncrypto buyers, allowing safe and transparent transactions while minimising fraud risks. It is a testament to how Ecoterra is leveraging technology to combat the pressing issue of climate change.

The Ecoterra ecosystem is a meticulously designed blend of technology, commerce, and education, working in harmony to fght climate change. It’s a promising step towards a sustainable future, and I’m genuinely excited to see how it shapes our tomorrow.

Technology

Powering Sustainability with a Click

Combining technology and environmental responsibility, Ecoterra makes recycling rewarding and remarkably straightforward. The experience is a simple three-step process that blends blockchain, AI, and green energy initiatives, creating a seamless fow from recycling actions to earning Ecoterra tokens.

Scan: Your Gateway to Green

The frst step in the process is scanning the barcodes of recyclable products. Ecoterra’s app has an expansive database of products, brands, and recyclables, allowing users to easily fnd matches. Whether you’re scanning plastic or glass bottles, aluminium cans, or even your electricity bill if you’re lucky enough to be producing green energy at home, the app is designed to facilitate an intuitive experience.

On scanning your recyclables, the app ofers accurate information about the product type, brand, volume, weight, material and more. For users with solar panels or other green energy-producing technology, scanning their electricity bill adds to their Ecoterra tally, fostering a virtuous cycle of sustainability.

Recycle: Easy as One, Two, Three

Once the scanning is complete, the next step is to recycle your items at a local Reverse Vending Machine (RVM). The Ecoterra app helps you locate nearby RVMs via GPS geolocation, simplifying the process of fnding a convenient location to drop of your recyclables. The act of recycling is just as it always has been – only now, it can be linked to the broader ecosystem of Ecoterra.

Decentralisation: Building Trust, Promoting Transparency

Ecoterra took advantage of the decentralised architecture of blockchain technology. It provides the infrastructure to establish trust between all parties involved – partner companies, recyclers, and Ecoterra, thus, information sharing is streamlined, and transparency is enhanced. Companies can track the journey of their recyclables till they reach their fnal destination, and users can verify if their contributions are being recognised. The risk of loss, theft, and fraud is mitigated as well.

After depositing your recyclables, you simply need to take a photo of the RVM receipt and upload it to the app. Each item you recycle that matches an item in the database translates into an instant deposit of Ecoterra tokens in your account.

Earn: Recycling Rewards

Now it’s time for the fun part, getting your rewards. For every item recycled, you earn Ecoterra tokens which can be used in multiple ways – spent, sold, staked, or donated. You can donate your tokens to plant trees through various projects globally, or fund education programs about climate change for the younger generation.

The tokens can also be used to purchase sustainable and eco-friendly products for everyday use from a dedicated marketplace, allowing recycling to pay for itself. By integrating the token economy into everyday activities,

Final Remarks: My thoughts

Advanced Features: NFTs and Recycle-to-Earn

Further adding to its technological prowess, Ecoterra uses NFTs to reward individuals and businesses according to their total impact score. These blockchain-stored certifcates serve as undeniable proof of contribution, adding another layer of transparency to the platform.

Ecoterra introduced the concept of Recycle-to-Earn (R2E system), rewarding users with tokens when they recycle. The inherent capability of blockchain technology to provide global accessibility means that Ecoterra can be adopted on a much larger scale, fostering a strong worldwide community of eco-conscious individuals.

As we wrap up our journey through the Ecoterra platform, I’m left with a deep sense of appreciation for this project. Ecoterra has managed to marry technology and sustainability uniquely, creating an ecosystem where one’s eco-conscious eforts translate into tangible rewards.

The standout feature for me is the simplicity of the process. The three-step model of Scan, Recycle, and Earn takes a traditionally complex process and makes it accessible to everyone. Ecoterra’s mission to ease and improve the recycling process to combat climate change is indeed ambitious. But, looking at the dedication and thoughtfulness that has gone into developing this platform, I am optimistic.

In conclusion, I am left impressed by Ecoterra’s approach to tackling environmental challenges. By linking everyday actions like recycling to a token economy, they’ve created a system that encourages and rewards eco-conscious behaviour. This is not just a token in the right direction, but a giant leap towards making sustainability a widespread reality.

Here’s to a greener future with Ecoterra.

DIY Mining: How To Mine Crypto At Home

written by Daniel Jimenez

Gone are the happy days when you could mine bitcoins with your personal or work computer, and why not? Even your school computer? How many of you ventured into the fascinating world of cryptocurrency mining in the early years of this market?

While it is true that it is currently almost impossible to mine bitcoins from home with your computer, some alternatives make low-scale mining still an entry point for the more adventurous to get into this activity.

Even though there are powerful ASIC miners for Bitcoin mining, the ‘industrialisation’ of this sector has all but buried any chance of you acquiring a powerful fve-fgure miner and competing against farms with hundreds of machines dedicated to the frantic race for some reward from the few million and a half BTC still left to be mined.

However, some ‘proftable’ options to dabble in hobby mining from home are still available today. Given that Ethereum is no longer available due to its migration from PoW (Proof-of-Work) to PoS (Proofof-Stake) consensus protocol, it is worth looking a little further down the table at the overall ranking of cryptocurrencies that still achieve consensus on the network under the PoW mechanism.

Understanding cryptocurrency mining methods

An important point to consider before selecting the cryptocurrency you wish to mine is to understand that there is a varied classifcation of cryptocurrencies for mining, depending on the mining method you choose.

There is CPU mining, which was one of the frst methods introduced with Bitcoin in 2008. Then, due to increasing difculty, the need to use powerful graphics processors (GPUs) became necessary for mining several cryptocurrencies.

Finally, ASICs (Application-Specifc Integrated Circuits) made their appearance, which was initially introduced for Bitcoin mining and then extended to other assets based on the PoW consensus mechanism.

As you can see, broadly speaking, there are CPU, GPU, and ASIC mining devices. Recently, some attempts have been made to introduce mobile mining using tablets, smartphones, and even IoT devices.

Source: g2.com

Source: Buy Bitcoin Worldwide

Some cryptocurrencies are resistant to mining with ASICs, others resistant to mining with GPUs, while some options can still be found and mined with CPUs. Whichever method you wish to choose, consider stipulating critical parameters for your mining efciency such as energy cost.

If you fnd that your hardware is not powerful enough to run solo mining, then consider joining a mining pool. This option will allow you to share your hash rate and, thus, have a better chance of earning rewards.

You can consult sites such as WhattoMine, NiceHash, or similar to explore the options in each group, which allows you to evaluate the performance of the diferent coins available for mining, depending on the hardware you own.

Selecting the right cryptocurrency

The above brings us to this point in venturing into the fascinating cryptocurrency mining world, and you must consider that there is no fxed manual applicable to practice for the selection of cryptocurrencies to mine is concerned.

Thus, it is of utmost importance to carefully consider the key parameters when deciding on the cryptocurrency you intend to mine:

1. Take into account the option of selecting a mid-cap altcoin, such as Litecoin or Monero, both of which ofer afordable rates and attractive mining rewards.

2. Be mindful that possessing an asset that you cannot readily redeem when needed is counterproductive. Therefore, it is essential to choose a cryptocurrency with substantial market capitalization, allowing for unrestricted and seamless trading.

3. Consider selecting a cryptocurrency that is not as volatile and has future growth potential to ensure stability in your income and little loss of net worth over time.

Buy your equipment

Once you have chosen which cryptocurrency to mine, it is time to purchase. But frst, you must remember that each cryptocurrency has its mining process under a specifc algorithm, like PoW or derivations.

Depending on the type of algorithm, there are some specifcs to consider when selecting what hardware to buy. For example, NVIDIA’s RTX 3000 GPU models included restrictions for cryptocurrency miners, which implied a detriment to the mining rate for some cryptocurrencies.

Source: NVIDIA

There are risks to consider that can partially diminish the useful life of the equipment purchased. Therefore, before getting a specifc GPU model or investing in a CPU model, consider reading the specifcations required to mine each cryptocurrency on its ofcial website.

Consider also the possibility of stock restrictions for some specifc models due to the signifcant demand generated by the gaming and crypto sectors.

In addition to dedicated mining hardware, consider assessing the weather conditions at your location, given that, if needed, you should invest in the necessary ventilation or cooling equipment to avoid hardware structural damage, which may prevent you from participating in mining rewards.

Of course, remember to include the calculation of energy consumption in your energy costs for extra equipment to maintain the optimum operating temperature.

Set Up mining software

With the cryptocurrency selected and the necessary equipment at home to mine, it is time to set up the software required to participate in the respective mining, and depending on the type of cryptocurrency and the algorithm it uses, there are diferent software to set up your equipment correctly to start the mining process.

Source: GPU-Z

It is always advisable to go to the ofcial website of the selected project and its ofcial repositories to avoid using potential malware. However, there are generic options that you can fnd in community forums dedicated to the project.

It is important to note that when setting up your miner, you must enter your wallet address to receive the rewards granted for your device work.

Never share your keys, and avoid using the public URL in some tutorials, software setup videos, and even in the readme documents that come with downloaded fles on your computer.

Learning the meanings of each default parameter of each miner (software) is vital for a correct hardware confguration.

Solo mining or Join a Mining Pool

At this point, making a sensible decision based on the equipment you have purchased with the advice in the previous section is vital, and given that some cryptocurrencies have a fairly high hash rate, selecting the best option will allow you to perform optimally to get the most rewards.

If your hardware does not ofer the computing power required for a successful rate of fnding blocks during mining, then you should consider joining a mining pool if you are a home miner.

Source: xmrig.exe

By joining a mining pool, you will combine resources with other miners to increase the likelihood of opportunities to earn rewards for fnding solutions to the complex mathematical problems involved in cryptocurrency mining.

Of course, research the pool’s track record, fees to join, payment methods, and reputation.

Remember that in the crypto ecosystem, trust is a critical factor, and a good reputation is a good indication of that trust.

Options for mining in 2023

Now that you know the basic steps to take into consideration to start mining cryptocurrencies at home, let’s look at some viable options for 2023 that you can use to begin your journey in the vibrant cryptocurrency ecosystem.

Litecoin (LTC)

With a current market capitalization ranking as the twelfth largest in the cryptocurrency market, Litecoin remains a wildly popular choice among miners due to its incredibly low transaction fees and substantial price volatility, making it a standout favourite with its price per unit soaring above ninety dollars.

It is one of the frst existing projects after Bitcoin, created based on the king cryptocurrency protocol, but with a diference in the hash algorithm to generate faster transaction times and low commissions, given its focus on using payments and microtransactions.

Litecoin uses Scrypt as its base algorithm and has a current block reward of 12.5 LTC. With a state-of-the-art Bitmain Antminer L7 9160 Mh, the estimated rewards per device are around $7.69/day (not including fees) per miner.

It is important to note that the chart above is variable and will largely depend on the behaviour of the LTC price after its next halving, which will take place next August.

Monero (XMR)

Monero is among the cryptocurrencies that emerged during the early stages of the ecosystem.

It’s crucial to emphasize that, unlike Litecoin, the team behind Monero has consistently focused on constructing a network that discourages the development of Monero-oriented ASICs, rendering it an ideal option for mining with home computers.

Monero is currently ranked 26th in the overall cryptocurrency ranking, guaranteeing high liquidity for earned rewards exchange.

Monero uses the RandomX algorithm and ofers a reward of 0.6 Monero per block, approximately one hundred dollars at the current price.

Source: Whattomine

Source: Whattomine

In a mid-to-high-end scenario with a $1,600 NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 GPU, providing at least a hash rate of 9.8 Kh/s, daily earnings would be around 36 cents per day at the current XMR price.

Dogecoin (DOGE)

The popular meme coin, explicitly promoted through its social networks by the legendary Elon Musk, is another good option in the general ranking of cryptocurrencies for mining.

Ranked ninth by market capitalisation, DOGE uses the Scrypt algorithm, just like Litecoin and Digibyte (DGB). Therefore, DOGE can be dual-mined with LTC and DGB, allowing it to leverage existing hardware to beneft simultaneously from rewards in two projects.

DOGE rewards are currently 10 thousand DOGE per block, which at the current price is about $692 per block.

Dogecoin allows, like Monero, mining using only your computer’s CPU or a GPU miner to harness the power of your computer’s installed graphics card.

If you are encouraged to use a device such as the Antminer L7 9500Mh with a cost of approximately fve thousand dollars, the proft per day can be up to 17 dollars per day for each device.

Other options

In addition to the previous options, there are a wide variety of cryptocurrencies that you can mine from home with the right hardware. Among the most popular ones today, where many ETH PoW miners have arrived, are Ethereum Classic (ETC), Ravencoin (RVN), DigiByte (DGB), and Verge (XVG), among others.

Remember that cryptocurrency mining is a high-risk activity, and you need to do your due diligence (DYOR) before purchasing equipment to participate in this emerging industry beyond Bitcoin.

Fortunately, today there are a lot of literature available and excellent discussion forums that can guide you on your frictionless learning curve into the fascinating world of cryptocurrency mining.

It is important to consider that this world is constantly evolving, with the emergence of new mining options, improved algorithms and frequent competitive hardware development.

Keeping up to date with the latest industry trends and actively participating in communities dedicated to this industry will allow you to monitor with certainty the proftability of your activity and maintain a balance in your strategy based on the selected option.

Mining cryptocurrencies at home can be a rewarding and proftable venture for enthusiasts interested in participating in the cryptocurrency revolution. Happy mining!

Written by Samantha Jimenez

Since The Moon Mag’s debut, we have dedicated several magazine issues to important, technological, and innovative projects that leverage the virtues ofered by Blockchain technology and the entire crypto ecosystem. From decentralised games to 3D global maps, these projects open new frontiers and take technology to unexpected levels.

In this article, we will look at some of those key projects from past issues and see what they have been up to since the last time we wrote about them!

In the frst magazine issue, we delved a bit into this project known as a decentralised autonomous community (DAO) focused on the famous “play to- earn” concept of blockchain games, where players join as part of a guild (one of the most important within the ecosystem) to acquire and manage digital assets, which get used in various online games that ofer rewards and income-generating opportunities. They are like an “adventurers’ guild” in an epic fantasy world.

Like the epic tales of old, YGG also has a noble purpose: to bring fnancial inclusion and economic freedom to players worldwide. In this guild, players collaborate across diferent games and platforms, taking advantage of opportunities to acquire valuable virtual assets, such as NFTs and game tokens.

Taking a look at their latest 2023 updates, it highlights the impressive growth and expansion in their community. They have continuously established key partnerships with web3 gaming projects, thus strengthing their presence in the metaverse and increasing their asset and token value. They have 83 established partnerships so far, while players earn real income while enjoying their favourite games.

Yield Guild Games: The Games Guild

In addition, YGG has undertaken a major refresh of its brand identity. They have introduced a new look that better refects the diversity and power of their community. With their rejuvenated visual focus, they demonstrate commitment to being leaders on a path that leads to the open and fully decentralised metaverse.

Why follow their lead?

YGG bases on the solid belief that digital economies will have considerable value in the future, surpassing even physical and tangible economies. As one of the most successful guilds today, YGG combines DeFi technology, NFTs and video games to create a new and exciting paradigm in job generation, with its members’ active participation as a cornerstone.

YGG is at an exciting and growing stage achieving signifcant milestones in Q1 2023, and continues to lead the charge in the web3 gaming world and the metaverse. It’s certainly a project worth keeping a close eye on, as we could expect more innovations and exciting developments in the future.

DERACE

In The Moon Mag’s second issue, we introduce DeRace, an exciting platform that revolutionises the NFT world (Non-Fungible Tokens) into an entertaining virtual world of horse racing.

One of the best things about DeRace is the freedom to organise your own races at your own unique NFT racetrack - it’s like you own and run your own horse racing world! Not to mention, as you enjoy this experience, you can proft fnancially from it.

Reviewing your roadmap and its latest updates, we compiled some important milestones for 2023. These include ranked level races, which add excitement and competition to the game, allowing players to participate in team races according to the level of their NFT horses. In addition, the horse rental feature is complete, allowing players to rent their NFT horses and set rates and rental periods.

How can users beneft fnancially?

By immersing yourself in the world of DeRace, you will be part of a market that is merging two growing industries: video gaming and horse racing. What this translates to is that you will have the potential to grow while having the opportunity to be immersed in a new trend within the crypto ecosystem.

So, users get NFT horses to participate in the races, and each has exclusive characteristics and traits that can help make money. On the other hand, there is a way to generate passive income with the new horse rental modality already available on the platform, allowing other players to enjoy your horses and fnancially beneft you for a certain period. It’s a cool way to join a vibrant community and discover new ways to earn and have fun in the exciting NFT world and, of course, the Metaverse.

Cere Network: A complete package to power your uncensored content

During our 4th installment of The Moon Mag, we tackled Cere Network, a blockchain technology platform that has revolutionised the way companies manage customer data.

Imagine a decentralised data cloud that protects information privacy and allows companies to work together securely and efciently. What’s most interesting about Cere Network is its focus on data security and privacy. With encrypted and decentralised storage, customers’ data is protected from hackers and vulnerabilities - giving users peace of mind!

This year, the project took a quantum leap focused on this line of data protection, shielding customer data, leaving hackers empty-handed and customers feeling more confdent than ever before.

Also, in early June, they announced that the platform now features Subsquid Indexing integration, a powerful tool that streamlines data processing and access to data onchain.

In addition, collaboration between companies is now easier than ever, thanks to Cere. Companies can share data without fear and work together to improve the customer experience. It’s as if we’re seeing a united team seeking success together.

Why keep up with them in the future?

Cere Network is in a perfect position to take advantage of its growing trend and lead the way to a more decentralised future with the CRM and CDP industry growth.

In addition, their focus on technological innovation is impressive. With the development of tools like Subsquid Indexing, they demonstrate how they are constantly looking for innovative solutions and improvements. Following them could be smart as their focus on privacy, security, and business collaboration is exciting and relevant. And with their bold vision and innovation pursuit, they are poised to lead the future in the blockchain world.

Radicle Network: A safe for your code projects

In MM installment #7, we wrote about Radicle Network, a freedom and fexibility project best known as a revolutionary code collaboration network that gives you the power and security to work on your projects without limits. Similar to projects like GitHub and GitLab in code collaboration and version control.

To make it a bit more fun, let’s imagine a code collaboration network built on top of Git (distributed tool) but with one signifcant diference: it is decentralised and peer-to-peer. Radicle allows users to run their nodes, which means no middlemen and no central authority controlling your data, translating it to a censorship-resistant collaboration where you don’t have to worry about anyone else meddling in your afairs.

The amazing thing about this project is how Radicle ensures the authenticity and authorship of all data, making it stand out and diferent from the rest. Everything is stored in Git and signed with public key cryptography. In other words, your data is legitimate and protected. It would be like having a safe for your coding projects.

For some investors, Radicle represents the opportunity to participate in a project that revolutionises how code collaboration and data privacy is protected, focusing on decentralisation, security, and accessibility, thus ultimately setting it apart from the rest and positioning it as a promising network for code collaboration in the future. If you value freedom, security, and innovation in the programming world, Radicle can be an exciting and worthwhile bet for an investment.

Astroport

Astroport is an automated market maker (AMM) and decentralised exchange (DEX) that ofers users a secure and efcient way to exchange tokens in the Terra solar system. In our 9th installment, we highlighted Astroport as a place where trust and decentralisation are the game rules, and it continues to be that way.

Reviewing their latest updates, we came across the launch of Neutron, the Cosmos’ frst replicated security chain that is like a powerful shield to protect all transactions.

Best of all, the team behind Astroport is super experienced and experts in this decentralised fnance stuf. They know what they are doing and have proven their talent in previous projects. Another interesting point about Astroport is that it ofers several options to trade your assets. You can choose regular trades easily and fast or router trades, which allows you to beneft from diferent trading pairs and liquidity pools.

Also, this platform has two currency types: ASTRO and xASTRO. With ASTRO, for example, you get a say in decisions and rewards for trades. While with xASTRO, you receive even more rewards and trading options that allow you to vote on important decisions.

Although Astroport may share some similarities with other DEX and AMM platforms in decentralisation and liquidity, its focus on interplanetary collaboration and its innovative implementation of Neutron set it apart and make it unique. With its innovation, security, fexibility, and growth potential, Astroport is an exciting destination for those wanting to explore the decentralised fnance world.

Render Network is an innovative platform that has revolutionised 3D content creation by providing decentralised GPU computing power, meaning artists and creators can leverage thousands of high-performance GPU nodes worldwide to render 3D images and animations quickly and efciently.

The last major update to Render Network that caught our attention is its blockchain marketplace for idle GPU computing. This update allows artists to access unused GPU resources in diferent locations worldwide, speeding up their rendering tasks at a much lower cost. It’s like having access to a global supercomputer without investing in expensive equipment.

Within the platform is the RND token, essential for the Render Network operation, as it is the currency that allows users to access and use the rendering and computing resources on the network. In MM instalment #10, we shared an article dedicated to its tokenisation and how it works, and we talked about other important aspects of this platform.

Render Network

Why keep an eye on them?

Secret Network is like a digital superhero that protects your data and gives you a safe space to be part of an active and exciting community. It’s something worth keeping a close eye on, and considering your journey in the world of cryptocurrencies and decentralised applications, it could change how we interact with technology forever.

Secret Network

Secret Network is a leading privacy blockchain launched in 2020. It aims to protect sensitive data and provide privacy in the cryptocurrency and decentralised application space. In other words, it functions as a privacy gatekeeper.

In our 12th MM installment, We highlighted that one of the best features of Secret Network is its ability to create “Secret Contracts,” smart contracts that preserve privacy. It has a native token, SCRT, which is like the access ticket to use all the cool platform features. You can use SCRT to make transactions, interact with applications, pay network fees, and earn rewards for maintaining and supporting the network.

Secret Network’s latest major update is its Ethereum integration roadmap. This initiative aims to enable communication between Secret Network and the Ethereum network, which opens the door to several new use cases and possibilities for both chains. Privacy and data protection are essential in the blockchain world, and Secret Network is working hard to provide solutions that beneft the Ethereum community and the ecosystem at large. It would be like making new friends while your circle of trust expands.

Why not let them out of your sight?

Secret Network is like a digital superhero that protects your data and gives you a safe space to be part of an active and exciting community. It’s something worth following closely, and considering your journey in the world of cryptocurrencies and decentralised applications, it could change how we interact with technology forever.

Hivemapper makes world maps thanks to the thousands of people working together to build detailed and up-to-date maps of our planet. Each one contributes a grain of sand to create something valuable for everyone. Hivemapper is like a magical map that goes beyond the ordinary. It is a powerful tool that shows a world of geospatial data and information with its ability to guide and reveal secrets; Hivemapper is an invaluable ally for those seeking to venture into unknown territories.

The ultimate update to Hivemapper this year has been the addition of thousands of dashcams around the globe, which has enabled the collection of more than 4 million unique kilometres of road images, covering approximately 6% of all roads in the world. In addition, the project has taken a crucial step by improving the intellectual capacity of its Map AI through tools such as AI trainers.

In addition, Hivemapper uses blockchain technology, in this case, Solana, to secure and streamline transactions with HONEY tokens. It is as if we found a book on the internet where everyone can read and write it, but in this case, everyone can make transactions more efciently and quickly.

Why track them?

What makes tracking them so exciting? None other than the reward we receive for our contributions. Through digital tokens called HONEY, we get compensated for the work done to improve the map. These tokens have value and can get exchanged for map data provided by Hivemapper. It is a fair and equitable way to share the project’s economic benefts with those who build it. You can describe more of this project in our MM installment #13.

Hivemapper

Aptos Labs

Introducing this project in MM installment #16, we discussed how this platform aims to create universal and fair access to decentralized assets for billions of people. It is an independent initiative to develop the world’s most secure and production-ready blockchain.

With its latest updates, we found the recent release of the verifed software development kit (SDK) for Unity, the popular real-time platform for 2D and 3D content development and creation; This translates into a breakthrough for Aptos Labs, as it will be able to reach out to the game developer community and ofer vetted solutions to enable decentralisation in the gaming world.

They also introduced Petra Mobile, a new mobile application that joins the next wave of Web3 users in a mobile experience that gives them a new level of freedom and fexibility in managing their assets.

What makes it interesting?

What makes Aptos Labs special is its focus on security and transparency. They have developed the SDK and mobile app with security as its highest priority, ensuring users total control over their assets and private keys. They also partnered with leading hardware portfolios to provide users with an additional control layer and fexibility.

In short, Aptos Labs is like an alchemy lab where magic and innovation unite to transform the gaming world. Like the alchemists of old, they seek to uncover the secrets of the future and take the gaming industry to new heights, all while sharing their knowledge and tools with the developer community.

Exec is a network connecting sellers and buyers of cloud resources, thus creating an ecosystem of decentralised applications emphasising privacy and security. It is like the knight in shining armour in the Web3 world. His mission is to protect the privacy and rights of users amidst a chaotic and troubled realm of invasive digital marketing. He has come to change the rules of the game rules and empower everyone in his ecosystem.

What makes it unique?

Their focus on protecting people and giving them control over their online data and assets makes iExec special, given that instead of going the traditional route full of invasive practices, iExec has chosen to champion privacy and security in the Web3 realm.

So, if you’re looking for a reliable partner to navigate the complicated world of privacy and decentralisation, keep an eye on iExec. His humanised and courageous approach to marketing and data protection shows us that there is hope for a more just and secure digital future. Let’s follow this gentleman closely on his journey to make the digital world a better place!

Concluding thoughts

Throughout this article, we have explored diferent blockchain technology and Web3 projects, each with unique characteristics and specifc approaches. Although these projects vary in their goals and applications, they all share a common vision: to leverage decentralised technology to create a more inclusive, transparent, and empowered future.

Recently, iExec has taken a step forward by launching an innovative solution called “Privacy Enhanced Marketing” (PEM). A “magic layer” that allows decentralised applications to protect users’ personal information while giving users the option to share their data with third parties in a secure and controlled manner.

In addition, iExec has introduced special tools for developers, such as iExec DataProtector and iExec Web3Mail. These tools make it easy for application developers to protect their users’ data and send emails without knowing email addresses. It’s like a mighty sword to protect privacy in the digital world!

Aptos Labs, iExec, and Yield Guild Games are prime examples of how blockchain technology revolutionises diverse industries and creates opportunities for users and developers alike. Aptos Labs is leading the forefront of decentralisation in the gaming world, enabling actual game asset ownership and interoperability. Its focus on decentralisation and transparency paves the way for a more equitable gaming industry.

Across the board, all the projects above share a vision of transforming industries, democratising access to resources and empowering people by sharing fundamental foundations such as security and privacy.

As these projects and others in the blockchain ecosystem continue to develop, it is important to keep a close eye on them and know how their advances and achievements may impact our lives. The Web3 revolution has begun, and these projects are just a taste of what’s to come. I wonder where these projects will be a year from now. Good luck to all of them from the Moon Mag!

DAOs 101: Understanding the Basics

written by Chris

Introduction

Picture a world where companies thrive without a conventional hierarchy, where the need for CEOs or boards of directors is obsolete. Welcome to the revolutionary concept of Decentralised Autonomous Organisations or for short, DAOs. Powered by blockchain technology, DAOs challenge traditional notions of governance, compelling us to redefne the anatomy of organisation.

With DAOs, decision-making is not a privileged activity behind mahogany doors, but a democratic process in an open forum where every participant can express their voice. This wave of digital democracy is reshaping the way we collaborate and innovate.

In this article, you will understand the DAOs basics, their essence, origins, functions, and transformative potential of the future landscape. Brace yourself for an exhilarating journey into the captivating realm of DAOs.

What is a DAO? Defnition

Now imagine a high-tech robot independently performing tasks, making decisions, and self-manages, all based on its pre-programmed instructions. A DAO operates in much the same way. It is an innovative organisational model, driven by blockchain technology, adhering to predefned rules inscribed into its structure through smart contracts.

DAOs function autonomously, free from a centralised management system, and are decentralised (for the most part), meaning no single entity holds control. Once the established rules are in action, the DAO can operate independently, like the robot that runs on its encoded instructions. DAOs personify democratic principles, transparency, and trust in an unprecedented way, challenging traditional chains of command and sparking thoughtful discussions about the future of governance.

Image Source: https://medium.com/1kxnetwork/organization-legos-the-state-of-dao-tooling-866b6879e93e

Key Features

DAOs possess several key features that distinguish them:

• Decentralisation: DAOs ensure that power and decision-making responsibilities are dispersed among the community members, avoiding a central authority. This distribution ensures that no single entity has total control.

• Transparency: Every transaction and decision-making process within a DAO is recorded and verifable on the blockchain, providing complete visibility and traceability.

• Autonomy: DAOs, once operational, can function independently without the need for human intervention. This autonomy is possible by the predefned rules set within their smart contracts.

• Tokenomics: Governance tokens play a signifcant role within DAOs. When distributed, they represent the individual voting power each member has.

• Inclusivity and Democracy: DAOs promote inclusivity. Depending on their position, every token holder can propose changes and vote on decisions, fostering a more democratic governance system.

• Resilience: Owed to their decentralised structure, DAOs are resilient against various kinds of attacks or system failures. They lack single points of failure, enhancing their overall robustness and reliability.

Collectively, these features create a new model that surpasses traditional standards in openness, equality, and resilience. DAOs represent a new era in design and management, promoting a future that is more democratic and transparent.

A History Lesson

Once upon a time, in the early spring of 2016, a new venture capital fund called ‘The DAO’ emerged. But this wasn’t just any fund – it was a Decentralised Application (DApp) thriving on the Ethereum blockchain network, a playground of promise and potential. Imagine being able to join simply by sending Ether to The DAO’s smart contract, your ‘golden ticket’ tokens in return. Within a heartbeat, the fund attracted over $150 million, spotlighting the glimmering potential of blockchain-powered crowdfunding.

The DAO

But every fairy tale has a villain. In June 2016, the dream began to crumble as funds mysteriously vanished from The DAO’s treasury due to a coding faw. A rogue was draining millions of Ether, leaving a chill in the market as the value of the DAO token took a ‘deep dive’. Ethereum’s knights, led by founder Vitalik Buterin, faced a conundrum:

Do they change the unchangeable blockchain history or let the rogue win?

To protect their kingdom, they chose to deploy a hard fork, altering the course of history to reclaim the stolen Ether.

Post-The DAO Era

After the wild saga of The DAO, the blockchain space has been forever changed. The fork led to two parallel protocols: Ethereum (ETH), where the DAO disaster was reversed, and Ethereum Classic (ETC), where original code rules and the rogue’s bounty remain untouchable. According to Omid Malekan in his book “The Story of the Blockchain:”

“The bug that was exploited by the hacker was, appropriately enough, found on line 666 of the smart contract code of The DAO. It was later determined that if a capital T in a command on that line had been lowercase, the theft would not have been possible.”

Today, we tread cautiously, crafting secure smart contracts, focusing on governance and transparency, all while remembering the lessons of ‘The DAO’.

How Does a DAO Work?

Governance Structure

At its heart, a DAO is governed by smart contracts which embed the rules of operation. These rules are pre-decided by the DAO’s creators and are designed to be fair and transparent. You might also encounter what’s referred to as the ‘DAO Constitution,’ a document detailing all operational aspects of the organisation.

The decisions in a DAO are driven by its members and investing in a DAO ofers more than potential fnancial gains, it ofers voting rights. Thus, you can participate in key decisions, shaping the DAO’s trajectory. Proposing changes usually requires a specifc amount of tokens, a formal proposal outlining every aspect of the proposed change, and the overall positive sentiment of the community. This way, it prevents an overload of frivolous suggestions and ensures that serious, considered ideas take the foor.

Tokenomics

In a DAO, tokens hold the reins, serving as:

• Native Currency: This is the ‘standard’ token of a DAO. It is used to fund activities, reward contributions, and manage operations. Through this, DAOs ensure the organisation’s sustainability and efectiveness.

• Voting Power: Holders can participate in governance decisions. By utilising these tokens, users have a signifcant infuence towards proposals initiated by the DAO. Every voter can steer decisions, from minor operational adjustments to substantial organisational changes.

Hence, funding phases, wherein tokens are sold, are crucial for DAOs. They generate the necessary capital for operations and distribute governance rights among investors. This process forms the backbone for any form of democratic and decentralised nature.

Role of Smart Contracts

Smart contracts are the pillars supporting a DAO’s structure. The operating rules ensure transparency, verifability, and public auditability. The blockchain immortalises these rules, making them immutable unless a majority vote determines otherwise. Smart contracts automate several processes, from governance and treasury management to token distribution and voting systems. They encapsulate the essence of decentralisation. Whatever the DAO’s aim - enhancing the protocol, rewarding contributors, or facilitating collective asset acquisition - the smart contracts make it possible. Thus, a fully structured DAO is a dynamic ecosystem governed by collective decision-making processes, bound by code.

An Exploration of the Diferent Types of DAOs

Great, you’ve made it this far! Ready for a deep dive?

Protocol DAOs

Top on our list are Protocol DAOs, entities that have an unwavering focus on decentralised protocol governance. From AMMs to other DeFi services, these DAOs enable democratic oversight of a wide range of blockchainbased applications.

For instance, the venerable MakerDAO, one of the frst DAOs on the Ethereum blockchain, uses smart contracts to ofer customised lending services. It operates on a governance model that leverages the MKR token, enabling holders to vote on various protocol aspects.

Philanthropy DAOs

Philanthropy DAOs exemplify how blockchain can bring about a paradigm shift in social responsibility. Although not very common yet, they are steadfast in their mission to create a meaningful impact on the Web3 landscape.

For example, the Big Green DAO, the frst non-proft DAO focused on philanthropy, collaborates with institutions and charity organisations, to raise awareness about sustainable food practices. By using a decentralised framework, they are bridging blockchain’s unprecedented transparency and inclusivity in the real world.

Collector DAOs

With NFTs gaining traction the recent years, Collector DAOs are emerging to harness this trend. These DAOs pool resources to acquire blue-chip NFTs and other valuable collectables, allowing communities to own a share of these prized assets.

A case in point is the Flamingo DAO, which pools funds to acquire high-value NFTs from prominent digital artists. This way, they enable a diverse group of investors to gain exposure to the lucrative NFT market without substantial individual risk.

Investment DAOs

Mirroring traditional investment funds, Investment DAOs pool resources to collectively invest in early-stage blockchain and crypto projects. What sets them apart is the absence of a central controlling authority. Instead, decision-making power lies with the DAO token holders.

An excellent example is MetaCartel Ventures, or Venture DAO, dedicated to investing in new dApps. Ofering low entry barriers, it democratises early-stage investments, opening up avenues previously inaccessible in traditional fnance.

Grants DAOs

Grants DAOs are entities that allocate funds to innovative projects, primarily in DeFi. They could either be philanthropic ofshoots of larger DeFi projects or standalone organisations.

Aave Grants DAO and Balancer Grants are two examples that pool DAO funds to drive innovative projects. Their eforts aim to foster the development of the DeFi ecosystem and promote innovation within their respective protocols.

Social DAOs

Social DAOs are an evolving trend within DeFi, often characterised as digital tribes uniting people with shared interests.

A prime example is Seed Club, an accelerator-like social DAO that helps creators and brands launch and grow social tokens. As the defnitions of these DAOs continue to morph alongside the fast-paced crypto world, they’re helping to shape a new era of digital communities driven by common goals and mutual growth.

Media DAOs

Media DAOs centre around media-related endeavours such as content creation, curation, and distribution. They foster collaborative environments where members pool resources, share rewards, and contribute to content management.

A prime example, BanklessDAO, goes beyond being a media DAO—it’s an active hub of Web3 thought-leaders, focusing on educating users, producing media, developing Web3 tools, consulting, and creating a vibrant social base for anyone involved in Web3.

Service DAOs

Last but not least on our list, are Service DAOs. They cater to the unique needs of individuals, protocols, and even other DAOs, providing cryptonative advice tailored to their distinct operations and cultures. These entities share value creation across their contributors and the entire organisation, fostering a culture of aligned incentives, collaboration, and openness.

A prominent example, Opolis, empowers solopreneurs and independent workers, ofering tools for designing work by personal lifestyle preferences, thereby paving the way for a more egalitarian global employment framework.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

I could probably pen fve more articles solely on the challenges DAOs face, governance hurdles and so on, but for brevity’s sake, let’s distil the main points:

Regulatory Hurdles

DAOs face complex legal battles as they don’t ft into any existing policy framework. Here is a thoughtful draft from a16z that was published some time ago, but we still have a long way ahead of us. Taxation of DAO tokens, treasuries, investments, implementing anti-money laundering policies, and liability responsibilities are some of the undefned issues. Some regions like Wyoming are pioneering laws recognising smart contracts as legal documentation governing DAOs, but the regulatory landscape remains uncertain. However, it’s noteworthy that as DAOs push boundaries, legal authorities might impose more scrutiny.

Governance Challenges

Navigating the balance between efective coordination and complete decentralisation is a crucial challenge for DAOs. On one hand, the democratic ‘one man, one vote’ model may result in decision-making bottlenecks or uninformed decisions. Conversely, delegating authority to experts can dilute the decentralisation principle. The inactivity of token holders poses an additional governance issue. Some DAOs combat this by incentivising active participation and penalising inactivity, but fnding the right governance model continues to be a puzzle, even for the more established DAOs in the space.

Opportunities for Growth

Despite these challenges, DAOs provide a potential alternative to traditional organisational structures and venture capital funding, emphasising community over proft. Critics argue that the high entry barriers and reliance on venture capital contradict the very decentralisation and democratic principles DAOs espouse. However, the involvement of VCs can also provide valuable operational expertise and fnancial stability. As DAOs evolve, striking the right balance between community engagement, fnancial stability, and regulatory compliance will be key to their growth and success.

Final Remarks / My Thoughts

DAOs certainly herald a shift in the organisational paradigm, encouraging democratic decision-making and ensuring unparalleled transparency. These democratic powerhouses have the potential to level the playing feld, making room for innovation from all quarters. However, as all roses come with thorns, so do DAOs. There are genuine concerns surrounding their security, the inherent risks in entrusting crucial fnancial decisions to the masses, and the governance issues that often spark heated discussions among communities. Furthermore, the uncharted territory of legal implications surrounding DAOs is a knot that still needs untangling.

My thoughts veer towards cautious optimism. DAOs are an exciting realm to explore whether you are a developer, a freelancer or an investor. But you must not rush headlong into the unknown. By keeping their intrinsic risks in view, a step-by-step approach is key. We stand on the brink of potential change, but prudence must be our watchword in this new frontier.

10 Things

I Learnt From Trading Experts

written by Josh

As many of you know, I have the privilege to be working alongside (as I write, just a mere few feet away!) one of the best Elliot Wave traders to grace this Earth. Lisa N Edwards has a depth of knowledge and experience in trading (both crypto and stocks) that is confrmed by the many testimonials I see appear on the Internet. These are given, not only by the people who have studied and learnt under Lisa’s example but also, by other world-class traders out there who are at the top of their game.

Over the past 24 months, I’ve listened, learned and been quietly fabbergasted whilst looking over Lisa’s shoulder to examine how she does what she does best. Amongst the tens of tabs and hundreds of charts often dressing her screen, I’ve tried to pick out some of the most useful tips to help you on your trading journey.

By all means, if you fnd this article interesting, come and join us at Getting Started In Crypto to learn even more, put it all into practice and aim to make some life-changing money through trading.

1. Trust Your Process

Trust your process with emphasis on the word ‘your’. My frst point is that you need to develop your own trading style using indicators and theories that suit you, your way of living and your mindset. Take time to understand multiple strategies, theories and indicators and paper trade in order to grow your confdence.

The second underlying meaning to this frst point is that once you have your style locked in, you need to allow it to play out in the markets. So many times whilst watching a trade, people get caught in their own thoughts, which is constantly questioning their very own judgement and panic-changing their strategy. Have faith in your conviction, let it play out and then adapt afterwards.

2. Embrace Change In The Markets

In contradiction to my frst point of having a strategy and doubling down on it, very rarely do new traders fnd the right strategy immediately and even better traders realise that trading isn’t a one size fts all approach. Depending on the market, bull or bear, strategies need to change and adapt. However, human nature does not embrace change too well. Move with the markets and evaluate and adapt. To quote Bruce Lee ‘Be like water, my friend.’ You need to have an inventory of go-to methods that you can utilise at any given moment.

3. Separate Your Emotions From Logic

Not only is this essential for trading, but one could suggest it’s also essential for life! On paper, the skill of identifying whether emotions are talking or logic is talking should be super easy, but in reality, it requires a lot of discipline and focus. When it comes to trading, if you fnd yourself constantly watching the candles, then you’ve already set yourself up for a battle with the instantaneous emotions that arise in you. The candle is green? ‘Oh, it will stay green forever and a day! Trading is easy!’ The candle is red? ‘Oh, well, it can’t be red forever, right? I’ll just hold on a little bit longer….’ My thoughts go out to the 1-minute candle observers.

Emotions often seem to have a greater pull on your decision-making, but logic is always there so it’s important when you have an onset of thoughts whilst trading to take a second to ask yourself ‘Who’s talking to me here? My emotions or my logic? What is the alternative perspective?’ A skill that takes time to master but there are ways to help ease yourself into self-reliant decision making and one of those brings me to the next point in this list.

4. Set Alerts

Over the course of the last 24 months, I would confdently say that our ofce/computers/phones have been engaged for 90% of that time. Ok, we’re building a business, immersing ourselves in other passions and catching up on the latest on Crypto Twitter (X) but Lisa is also trading and fnding Signals for the GSIC group. With over 20,000+ cryptos in the industry, it’s a little difcult to keep an eye on every single chart going. Saying that Lisa often has 100+ tabs open on her computer, which I think must be powered by a futuristic form of nuclear energy since it manages to somehow cope with the continuous movements of the charts. So how do we eat, sleep and everything in between?

Thankfully, TradingView has a life-saving (literally) function that allows Lisa to set alerts. On observation, these are set when indicators trigger, for e.g. the MA’s cross a certain way. They are also set when Lisa believes a pattern is entering the Buy Zone for a potential trade set-up. You can literally look at a chart, design your plays and set an alert to ring out when the coin is ready to (hopefully) follow your pattern. Make trading ft around your lifestyle rather than making your lifestyle ft around trading.

5. Look At The Bigger Picture

So your Stop Loss just triggered again? You feel like you’ll never be a pro trader? Your expectations are probably based on every trade you do. You go from a winning trade to one bad trade and suddenly your whole world is upside down. Then you pick another winner! Was it just good luck or can you actually do this?

Zoom out. Check out things from a bigger picture. This is a marathon, not a sprint. Instead of regarding the Stop hit as a failure, look at it as an experience instead, fgure out what could change and move on. No need to evaluate it any further. Celebrate your winning trades, pat yourself on the back, look at what went right and move on. No need to evaluate it any further.

But perhaps once a month, Lisa and I will step back and evaluate to see what we could do better, what’s going well and where we’d like to be next month. Proof of work? We submit all our trades every month from the group in one spreadsheet, for everyone to check out. Wins, losses and percentages.

6. Experiment

Loosely based on points 1 and 2 in this article, experimentation is a gateway for new ideas and makes adapting to the Market a hell of a lot easier! And again, with initial judgement removed, sometimes experimentation has surprising results. Being a ‘degenerate’ crypto trader with high risk is not how we trade but there’s no denying that it is a method that some people abide by and, yeah, some make incredible gains. But at what risk, stress, luck levels?

There has been occasion however where Lisa and I have put a small amount of money i.e. money we can aford to lose, in a coin that is pumping on hype alone or some other wild theory as to why the coin may go 100X. The point being, experiment, take what works, leave the rest and experiment again. It could open you up to some invaluable insights that you can incorporate into your trading style.

in the Sun. Done. I know I have and that dream has quickly been crushed when those shortcuts to the promised land turn out to be one way streets to Rug City. As I said in point 5, it’s a marathon, not a sprint.

I’ve noticed that when trading, Lisa will often create a goal and then break that down into smaller goals again. The Thousand To Millions method that Lisa created is an incredible example of how lots of small wins quickly equal a big win. By compounding trades, taking just 3% proft each time, you can multiply your bank in a big way. 3% being the stepping stones and a big bank balance being the bigger picture goal. Whilst we’re here,

I highly recommend you take a few minutes out from this article to Google compounding in fnance.

8. Set A Stop Loss

This is number 8 but it’s probably the number 1 piece of information we constantly share with our group, or anyone trading for that matter! I’m not even sure how much more I can write when the title of this point says it so clearly. I’d advise printing out the words ‘Set A Stop Loss’ in large font and possibly neon pink colour and taping it just above your trading set up.

Another way to put it, and one of Lisa’s favourites, is that using a stop loss is like using a condom; if you don’t use one, you could end up carrying the resulting human for a very, very long time….

My preferred analogy is to view a Stop Loss like a seatbelt in a car - it’s there for a reason!

9. Enjoy The Process

7. Stepping Stones

We’ve all envisioned putting $100 into a coin and expecting to wake up the next day with $5,000,000+ in the wallet. Cash out. Book a holiday

By now, you’re probably sensing a bit of a theme. Having the right mindset for trading is probably the most essential asset a trader can obtain. But it’s also hard work. You’ve probably watched the videos of traders living the high life, making thousands whilst sitting beside an infnity pool overlooking the ocean or wearing *insert luxury brand name here* clothes in a 5 star hotel. That is achievable for sure but hard work has often gone into making that lifestyle happen and those bits are usually the ugly blood, sweat and tears behind the scenes. Remember, no shortcuts.

The least you can do to make the work easier is to enjoy the process. Another top trader I know prefers to view trading as if he is trading jelly beans or some other form of sweets! It takes away the emotional attachment to money and turns it into more of an enjoyable learning curve.

10. Touch Some Grass

A classic meme phrase used in the crypto world to blatantly point out that there is more to life than trading. In fact, believe it or not, there’s a whole world out there! This is the next level up from point number 5.

Trading takes its toll mentally, moreso than most people realise and it’s crucial that you give your brain a rest. Not only is it processing the logic of how to set a trade, predicting targets, doing complex pattern calculations but it’s also managing the emotional side of your thinking and questioning, controlling and sorting thousands of thoughts, helpful ones as well as unhelpful ones.

A lot of people feel guilt for stepping away from the charts when they should be ‘making money’ but taking a break from trading is a part of trading. Think of it that way and you’ll always give your self permission to rest, relax and reset. A fresh, steady, calm mind is always an advantage.

Conclusion

It would be impossible to cover every small detail on what makes a good trader a great trader in just one article but hopefully this gives you an idea and some useful pointers on how you can begin your trading journey or adapt it, if you are already trading.

Whilst trading, Lisa often appears very neutral in thought (point 3) but with a sense of optimistic fun underlying her aura (point 9). Trades come along with a ringing out of the TradingView alert bell (point 4) and Lisa goes through her tried and tested motions (point 1) to ascertain her confdence with the trade in question. If it gets the thumbs up, the trade is entered, stop loss is set (point 8) and then she lets the Market do whatever it’s going to do whilst enjoying time out (point 10) or working on her flm project, CoinRunners or whatever else is on the planner for the day. Occasionally checking in to the Markets every now and again to see how things are playing out (point 2 and point 5) or perhaps a new meme coin is suddenly the talk of crypto town or maybe a new Exchange has launched, giving way to some exploration (point 6).

The years of trading has positioned Lisa as a very efective and capable trader. I often hear celebratory, almost mocking, cheers from the ofce if a Signal has hit its Targets (point 7) and I had chosen not to get into that particular coin (point 9 again, at my expense!).

I am privileged to be able to get an insider look into how experts trade the Markets but it’s always incredibly rewarding to see others beneftting from their successes too. Lisa and others actively choose to share their knowledge with everyone rather than keeping it all to themselves. In GSIC, we are a community of people, helping each other understand the world of trading and crypto with the advantage of having exclusive access to Lisa and her expert team. We have seen so many people reach their goals with the guidance of GSIC. We’d love to see you there too!