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We made it 2024!!!
Editorial
Welcome to the January edition; we’re diving deep into the crypto cosmos, exploring the latest technological advancements, regulatory shifts, and market trends that will shape the landscape of 2024. Get ready for a rollercoaster ride through the highs and lows of the crypto space. The crypto market is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and so are the narratives surrounding it. From the rise of decentralised finance (DeFi) to the ongoing developments in non-fungible tokens (NFTs), we’ve got it all covered. Expect insightful interviews with industry experts, thought-provoking analyses, and a breakdown of the hottest projects that are capturing the attention of both seasoned investors and newcomers alike. TheMoonMag.com has you covered! And can you smell that? The Bull run is almost here, and with the excitement of potential ETFs, we take you through the Wild West. Look at 5 coins we think will be huge over the coming year and all the best tips and tricks to find the gems in the market. And for the degens out there… I know that’s you… be honest, there’s a degen in us all that loves the thrill of seeing a coin/token pump and dump just as quickly; it gets the adrenalin going! As we embark on this crypto journey together, MoonMag is committed to providing you with the most up-to-date and accurate information, ensuring you stay ahead of the curve.
A note from Josh…
Whether you’re a seasoned hodler, a day trader, or just cryptocurious, our goal is to empower you with the knowledge needed to navigate this ever-changing and exhilarating space. And as always, we are grateful to our Major Sponsor, Bitget.com, for supporting us yet again! And look out, we may just be heading into print! We will keep you updated on this exciting possibility! So buckle up, fellow crypto lovers, as we navigate crypto throughout 2024. The year ahead promises excitement, innovation, and a few unexpected twists. (You know these are the best bits!)
Here’s to making it to the moon and beyond!
Happy New Year, and welcome to 2024! January brings us issue 29 of the Moon Mag, and we have a cracking lineup of articles to ease you into the year. Maybe you’re looking to check out the latest gems in the Market (5 Coins To Watch In 2024) or break out from the digital world and meet some fellow crypto enthusiasts (Hottest Crypto Events In 2024) in real life? Perhaps you’ve seen the buzzword ‘DeSci’ flashing about or the acronym ‘RWA’ and wondered what it stands for (Real World Assets) and are curious to understand what it’s all about? Well, now you can! Simply read on and enjoy. And for all our ‘degens’ out there....we’ve got an article for you (Crypto Opportunities For Degens)! Obviously, we’d always suggest researching, weighing up your risk levels and getting involved with crypto to learn and have fun. Talking of which, many of you are setting new goals and resolutions during this month of the year. Understanding WHO you are when getting involved with crypto will help you select the best niche for you. Many with a high-risk appetite are happy to trade (even with leverage 🙈 ), whilst others prefer to HODL, sit back and let the Market do its thing. Some might be fascinated by the hybrids of crypto and AI, whilst others who are gaming fanatics might want to immerse themselves into the gamefi sector. The cool thing about crypto is that its growth has been so exponential that you can find it in almost every niche and industry now. Just Google your favourite hobby, interest, or subject, and add ‘crypto’ to the search term and see what comes up! And if there isn’t anything yet, well, then maybe that’s your calling for 2024? If it is, and you’ve got an epic crypto project in the works, be sure to contact us - we’d love to hear about it! Enjoy the Moon Mag!
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TRADERS PERSPECTIVE
Wild West to Regulation
SUMMARY
15
5 Coins To Watch In 2024
30
Gem Hunting Tips & Tricks
42
Crypto Opportunities for Degens This magazine is sole property of themoonmag.com and is not to be redistributed in any form anywhere else.
Crypto Narrative 2024: Real-World Assets (RWA)
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Hottest Crypto Events In 2024
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DeSci - Web3 Shapes the Future of Science
20 HAPPY
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NEW YEAR!
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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 the awesome articles.
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 financial advice. Please DYOR and above all, enjoy the content!
CONTRIBUTORS Daniel Jimenez Daniel has been a blockchain technology evangelist since 2012 and is a faithful believer in the Crypto ecosystem. Daniel also writes for Coin Telegraph!
Samantha Jimenez 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 fintech 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 financial 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.
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TRADERS PERSPECTIVE
Wild West to Regulation written by Lisa N. Edwards
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As we start a new year, for my first article of 2024, I’m going to switch my focus to how regulations can be made fair and how they will continue to shape the landscape of emerging technologies, particularly in the cryptocurrency and blockchain industries. Just like the Right of Revolution and the 14th Amendment in the USA, cryptocurrency is undergoing regulations that aim to strike a delicate balance between fostering innovation and ensuring a fair, secure, and inclusive financial ecosystem. The evolution of this regulatory framework reflects a growing recognition of the cryptocurrency space’s potential, all while addressing concerns related to consumer protection, financial stability, and the prevention of illicit activities. As governments worldwide navigate the complexities of regulating this growing industry, the principles of equality and individual rights, enshrined in constitutional amendments like the 14th, serve as guiding lights in shaping a regulatory landscape that respects the essence of decentralisation while safeguarding the interests of all market participants. Cryptocurrency was once considered the Wild West of financial markets and has undergone a significant transformation over the years. From the origins of Bitcoin to the rise of numerous altcoins and blockchain projects, the landscape has evolved.
While this may be an unpopular opinion, this financial evolution has brought with it a pressing need for regulation, raising questions about the right of revolution and its connection to constitutional principles, particularly the 14th Amendment in the United States. As an advocate of decentralisation and financial autonomy, I argue for a hands-off approach, but also recognise regulation is a necessary evil and essential to avoid the potential consequences of an unregulated landscape, including increased susceptibility to fraud, market manipulation, and inadequate consumer protection. Balancing the ideals of innovation with the necessity for regulatory oversight becomes a critical discussion point, sparking debates about the role of government intervention in safeguarding the broader interests of both investors and the general public. In exploring these nuanced perspectives, we can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the intricate relationship between financial innovation, regulatory frameworks, and the timeless principles embedded in constitutional amendments such as the 14th.
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The Wild West of Cryptocurrency
Countries Doing This Right!
In its early days, cryptocurrency was characterised by innovation, disruption, and a lack of regulatory oversight. Bitcoin, the pioneer in the space, emerged in 2009 with the promise of a decentralised, peerto-peer currency. The anonymity it offered and its borderless nature appealed to those seeking financial independence from traditional banking systems.
El Salvador became the first country to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender in September 2021. The move was part of the government’s efforts to boost financial inclusion and tap into the benefits of cryptocurrency.
However, this lack of regulation also attracted illicit activities, such as money laundering, fraud, and the use of cryptocurrency in dark web transactions. The absence of a central authority meant that early adopters operated in a decentralised and largely unregulated environment, reminiscent of the Wild West, where new settlers abroad forged their paths without a clear legal framework.
The Need for Regulation As the cryptocurrency space expanded, so did the call for regulatory measures. Governments worldwide have recognised the potential benefits of blockchain technology but also sought to address the risks associated with unregulated digital currencies. The need for consumer protection, the prevention of illegal activities, and the establishment of a clear legal framework became paramount. And personal opinion that they can see they are missing out on Taxes.
However, the decision has been met with both support and criticism and opinions on whether El Salvador is handling cryptocurrency regulations “correctly” may vary. Supporters argue that embracing cryptocurrency can provide financial access to those without traditional banking services, facilitate remittances, and attract foreign investment in the emerging technology sector. Critics, on the other hand, raise concerns about the potential risks and challenges associated with cryptocurrency adoption, such as price volatility, lack of consumer protection, and the potential for increased illicit activities. It’s important to note that cryptocurrency regulations are complex, and the success of any approach depends on various factors, including implementation, adaptability, and addressing the concerns, if this is even possible, because it is likely you cannot please all of the people - all of the time…
The Right of Revolution
The 14th Amendment and Cryptocurrency
The concept of the right of revolution, deeply rooted in political philosophy, suggests that citizens have the right to overthrow a government that fails to protect their natural rights. While cryptocurrency is not a government, the right of revolution can be applied metaphorically to the crypto community’s demand for a fair and just regulatory environment.
The 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution, adopted in 1868, should play a crucial role in the regulation of cryptocurrency. The amendment ensures equal protection under the law for all citizens and prohibits states from denying any person within their jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.
In the context of cryptocurrency, the right of revolution implies that participants in the space have the right to demand changes in the absence of regulation or in the face of unjust regulatory practices. This demand for change mirrors the historical struggle for individual freedoms and protection under the law.
In the cryptocurrency space, the 14th Amendment could serve as a guiding principle for crafting regulations that treat all participants fairly. It emphasises the importance of protecting the rights of individuals, promoting inclusivity, and preventing discriminatory practices.
While unpopular, the need for cryptocurrency regulation is evident, raising questions about the right of revolution and constitutional principles, notably the 14th Amendment in the United States. Globally, regulatory decisions have a significant ripple effect, with the U.S. playing a pivotal role due to its influence on international markets. The USA used to be a hub for innovation. However, the archaic government is having a strong effect by throttling new and innovative industries, which is having major effects on cryptocurrency traders and exchanges in this region; the UK is not far behind in this thought process.
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Is this where the world can come together? U.S. regulations, as they currently stand, should not be the sole standards that impact global market sentiment; instead, a more comprehensive and collaborative international approach to cryptocurrency regulation is necessary. There is no one-sizefits-all approach that can be implemented. Coordination among nations to establish common ground and share best practices can contribute to a more balanced and globally inclusive regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies.
Should we adopt “The Right of Revolution”? Metaphorically applied to the crypto community, The Right of Revolution underscores the demand for a just and equitable regulatory framework. The principles enshrined in the 14th Amendment provide a constitutional basis for ensuring equal protection and individual rights in the changing landscape of cryptocurrency regulation. As the industry continues to mature, finding a delicate balance between innovation and regulation will be crucial for shaping its future. Don’t get me wrong, before 2017… the wild west of crypto was epic and where fortunes were made and lost in minutes! I do miss those days!
LONG LIVE CRYPTO!
BUY Lisa N Edwards’ Best Selling NEW Book OUT NOW!
5 Coins To Watch In 2024 written by Chris
2024 is here! It’s time to shake off the dust of the last year, look ahead with optimism, and focus on what the future holds for Crypto and especially ALTs.
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As we step into the new year, there’s an unmistakable sense of excitement and anticipation in the crypto community. The previous year set the stage for what many believe could be a transformative period. With the Bitcoin halving event on the horizon, we’re gearing up for what could be the beginning of an exhilarating bull run. Here at The Moon Mag, we look for the untapped potential in the market. We are savvy investors who are eyeing those projects that are currently undervalued but brimming with promise. We’re not just waiting for the next big thing; we’re actively seeking out those hidden gems that could redefine our portfolios in the years to come. The availability of high-quality assets at discounted prices have often turned out to be a golden investment opportunities. All those sayings like “buy low, sell high” or “there’s opportunity in crisis” – this is the time they’re talking about.
Pyth Network adopted a strategy to operate across multiple blockchains, an ambitious move towards creating a fully autonomous and decentralised Oracle network. This approach has expanded Pyth’s functionality and enhanced its reliability, garnering trust from projects on diverse blockchain networks such as Synthetix on Optimism and Ribbon Finance on Ethereum. Top-tier Partnerships: Pyth’s credibility is further bolstered by support from renowned investors and partners. With over 90+ partnerships, including Binance, TradingView, Synthetix, New York Stock Exchange, and so many more names you will know are using the Pyth Network. These partnerships underscore Pyth Network’s commitment to solidifying its position in DeFi and expanding its operations even further.
Similar signals emerge when examining various aspects such as prices, on-chain metrics, adoption rates, and social sentiment or employing both technical and fundamental analyses. The current crypto prices mirror the level of interest, yet for those with a discerning eye, this could serve as a strategic investment cue. Get out your financial magnifying glass to identify the potential of those gems that are set to shine soon.
What does 2024 hold for us?
Pyth Network image by Pyth’s blog
Overview Pyth Network is an oracle project on the Solana blockchain that has rapidly gained attention in the DeFi. Its mission? To bring and offer real-time financial market data, a service crucial for the operation of various protocols within DeFi. Unlike traditional models, Pyth Network sources its data directly from over 90 leading entities, including prominent exchanges and market-making firms. Features Multi-Chain Functionality: In October last year,
The PYTH Token - Tokenomics Token Distribution and Impact: The introduction of PYTH tokenomics on October 17th was an important moment for the network. With a maximum supply of 10 billion PYTH tokens and an initial circulation of 15%, the token distribution is structured to empower stakeholders, including token holders, to actively participate in guiding the network’s growth and development.
Token allocation of the $PYTH token
What are some of the unique aspects of Pyth that make it stand out?
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● Addressing Oracle Limitations: Traditional oracles often grapple with issues like slow update speeds and unreliable data sources. Pyth Network confronts these challenges by offering institutional-grade market data oracles with millisecond-level settlement prices. This capability is crucial for maintaining the integrity and efficiency of DeFi protocols, especially in volatile market conditions. ● Comprehensive Data Aggregation: Pyth stands out in its ability to consolidate a vast range of market data previously controlled by centralised entities. By decentralising this data, Pyth opens up new avenues for high-quality market information. ● Transparency and Community: Pyth places a strong emphasis on transparent and democratic governance. The network fosters an inclusive ecosystem where all participants, from data providers to users, have a say in its operations. This approach ensures not only fairness but also encourages innovation and active community participation.
In summary, Pyth Network’s ability to aggregate high-fidelity financial data across various blockchains is a game-changer. It’s breaking down the barriers of traditional finance and making vital market information accessible to a wider range of DeFi applications. This leap forward addresses long-standing challenges in the oracle industry, offering solutions that are fast, accurate, and, crucially, trustworthy.
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Beam Network Overview Beam Network is the brainchild of Merit Circle DAO and marked a significant leap in blockchain gaming. It’s not just a platform; it’s a cohesive ecosystem that brings developers and gamers together to craft the future of gaming on-chain. This innovation goes beyond typical gaming experiences, offering a unique blend of speed, flexibility, and community-driven development.
image by Beam
Beam launched as an Avalanche subnet, enjoying the parent network’s scalability and security. This integration means that Beam benefits from Avalanche’s infrastructure while maintaining its distinct focus on gaming applications. Proof of Authority (PoA) Model: Beam employs a PoA consensus mechanism, where a group of trusted validators oversees the network. This model ensures fast and secure transactions, important for the smooth functioning of blockchain-based games.
Tokenomics The $BEAM token powers the Beam network. It came from the $MC token that migrated to BEAM at 1:100 (for every 1 MC token, a user received 100 BEAM tokens). It is used for transaction fees and smart contract interactions, making it an integral part of the Beam ecosystem. The token distribution and release schedule of Beam Network are strategically designed to align with the network’s long-term vision and growth. This magazine is sole property of themoonmag.com and is not to be redistributed in any form anywhere else.
Here’s a simplified overview of the key token allocations and their corresponding percentages: Team & Advisors (20% of Total Supply) ➢This allocation is earmarked for the core team for the project’s development and strategic direction. A phased unlocking schedule is in place, ensuring a long-term commitment and alignment with the roadmap. DAO Treasury (15%) ➢Representing a significant portion of the total supply, this allocation fuels the DAO’s initiatives. The gradual release plan underpins governance activities and other crucial DAO operations. Seed Round for Early Investors (14.1%) ➢Reflecting the early confidence and investment in the project, this segment has a spread-out release to encourage sustainable growth and ongoing support from early backers. Liquidity Rewards (10%) ➢Aimed at bolstering market stability, these tokens enhance liquidity and contribute to a healthier trading environment for BEAM. Public Distribution (7.5%) ➢Targeting community engagement, this allocation is directed towards public participants, fostering broader involvement and interest in the project.
BEAMX Distinguished from the BEAM coin, BeamX represents the platform where developers can innovate using smart contracts called “Beam Shaders”. Currently, in the testnet phase, BeamX is poised to become a hub for blockchain development creativity. Beam Shaders are unique contracts offering developers the opportunity to delve into an emerging world of blockchain application development. Simply put, developers are encouraged to explore and develop these smart contracts. The Synergy of BEAM and BEAMX The dual-component structure of BEAM and BEAMX ensures a comprehensive ecosystem. While BEAM functions as the transactional backbone coin, BEAMX opens up possibilities for blockchain application development. As BeamX evolves from testnet to mainnet, it’s set to attract a lot of developers, thereby enriching the Beam ecosystem with diverse and innovative applications.
image by cryptorank
$BEAM tokenomics are centred around a balanced and strategic release of tokens, ensuring that different stakeholders are incentivised while maintaining the network’s stability and growth potential.
Unique Aspects It’s worth noting some features: EVM Compatibility: This feature allows for easy migration of Ethereum-based games to Beam, broadening the scope for developers to innovate and design new games. Community-Driven Governance: Spearheaded by Merit Circle DAO, Beam’s development is guided by its community, ensuring that the platform evolves in line with gamers’ and developers’ needs. Diverse Gaming Experience: With over 180 games already on board, Beam offers a rich variety of gaming genres, catering to a broad spectrum of player preferences. Beam Network is shaping up to be a formidable player in the blockchain gaming narrative. Its innovative approach, coupled with strong community backing and technical prowess, positions it well to challenge established platforms. As Beam continues to grow, it’s set to redefine some standards that we still haven’t seen in web3, offering new possibilities for players and developers alike. With its focus on user experience, security, and developer support, Beam Network and the $BEAM token are undoubtedly something to watch in 2024.
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Celestia Network
Overview Celestia marks a significant evolution in the blockchain industry as the first modular blockchain network. It stands out for its unique approach to scalability and flexibility, revolutionising how blockchains function and interact. Celestia’s primary role is to serve as a layer-1 blockchain, emphasising data availability. This design makes it an ideal platform for anyone aiming to launch their blockchain, ensuring a balance of efficiency and security.
Key Features Celestia’s architecture divides the responsibilities of a traditional monolithic blockchain. It handles the consensus and data availability layers while enabling rollups to manage execution and settlement layers. Its integration with the Cosmos SDK enhances its capability to offer data availability services to various rollups, adding to its versatility.
One of Celestia’s innovations is the Sovereign Rollup approach. It allows for the creation of individual execution environments with their unique social consensus, providing developers with control and flexibility. This feature is particularly advantageous for those looking to develop custom blockchain solutions without the constraints of a one-size-fits-all platform.
Tokenomics The Celestia network is powered by its native token, $TIA. The initial total supply is set at 1 billion tokens, with a carefully structured issuance plan. The tokenomics of Celestia are designed to encourage longterm holding, with an inflation rate starting at 8% annually and gradually reducing to 1.5%. This strategy aims to balance the token’s supply and demand dynamics over time. This magazine is sole property of themoonmag.com and is not to be redistributed in any form anywhere else.
image by Celestia docs
A significant portion of the tokens is allocated to R&D and ecosystem development, ensuring continuous innovation and growth. The public allocation for future initiatives further strengthens community involvement and network participation.
Unique Aspects • • •
➢ Scalability: Celestia’s modular structure enhances scalability by distributing specific functions across different nodes, leading to increased efficiency. ➢ Flexibility: Developers enjoy the liberty to experiment with various execution environments, thanks to the network’s modular nature. ➢ Sovereign Rollups: These rollups offer the advantage of having a unique Layer 1 execution environment, complete with individual social consensus, further promoting independence and customisation.
The network’s focus on data availability is crucial. It allows network nodes to efficiently download and store transaction data, enabling users to access and verify this information. Celestia’s approach to data availability, particularly through data availability sampling (DAS), significantly boosts transaction speeds while lowering costs. The platform’s architecture eliminates the need for hard forking the main chain to update applications. Instead, developers can implement updates seamlessly, focusing on the core logic of their applications. Celestia ensures that every application’s data remains accessible to anyone on the network, taking care of the consensus layer. Celestia brings scalability, flexibility, and sovereignty to the forefront, addressing the core challenges faced by blockchains like Ethereum. As Celestia grows, its innovative approach and the network’s commitment to innovation and community involvement set a promising trajectory for its future, making Celestia a project worth watching.
GROK
Overview Grok, the latest AI chatbot sensation, developed by xAI and spearheaded by Elon Musk, is more than just a technology marvel. It’s the impetus behind an unexpected phenomenon. Back in cryptocurrencies, GROK was born as a trending meme coin. Nevertheless, the meme narrative in crypto is growing and something to look out for, are memes that are inspired by Elon Musk.
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Features of Grok-Inspired Tokens In a remarkable twist, Grok has inspired the creation of over 400 crypto tokens in the past month. These tokens, while unaffiliated with Grok’s AI project, have collectively amassed millions in market capitalisation. This development is a testament to the power of hype and narrative when it comes to meme coins in the crypto market, particularly when combined with the influence of a figure like Elon Musk.
Tokenomics Well, there aren’t many things to talk about. Ownership is renounced, there are 6.9b total supply with 6.6b in circulation. Most importantly, no tax is associated with GROK in either buying or selling. These are the current stats at the time of writing.
Usually, the tokenomics of these meme-inspired tokens are as varied as they are speculative. Many of these tokens are created with the intent of capitalising on the current AI craze and Elon Musk’s substantial influence. However, it’s crucial to note that this token serves no concrete purpose beyond riding the wave of speculation and potential shortterm gains.
Unique Aspects: The Meme Culture Influence GROK is included in the meme-driven culture in the crypto market. It exemplifies the hype surrounding this side of crypto, thriving on community engagement and humour rather than utility or technological innovation. This ‘memeable nature’, coupled with the association (however tenuous) with Elon Musk’s Grok AI, has fueled its rapid adoption and speculative trading.
Why We’re Excited Approach meme tokens, like GROK, with a hint of scepticism due to its indirect link to the Grok AI project and meme-token status. However, the GROK token transcends being just an AI chatbot; it has evolved into a cultural phenomenon, seamlessly integrating its influence into the realm of crypto. The ascent of GROK highlights the dynamic and occasionally whimsical character of the crypto market, where narratives and influencers wield substantial influence. As ever, maneuvering through this space demands a mix of curiosity, caution, and a hearty sense of humour.
Work X
Overview Work X - we have saved the best one for last! The value proposition? Web3 employment. The project offers a platform where AI’s efficiency harmonises with the flexibility of the gig economy. It’s more than just a job-matching platform; it’s a comprehensive ecosystem catering to employees, employers, and freelancers alike. This platform epitomises the shift in the work paradigm, marrying technological innovation with the diverse needs of the modern workforce.
Features • • •
➢ AI-Driven Matchmaking: At its core, Work X employs advanced AI to seamlessly connect talent with relevant opportunities. This AI assistant, built on sophisticated algorithms, ensures a precise match, aligning job requirements with the applicants’ skills. ➢ Identity Management: Emphasising user autonomy, Work X enables individuals to take control of their professional data. This feature secures and authenticates users’ professional milestones, including diplomas, certificates, and work experiences in a decentralised way. ➢ Reference Verification: Utilising blockchain technology, Work X introduces a new level of reliability in the recruitment process. Verified on-chain references offer a transparent and credible method to evaluate potential hires.
Tokenomics The introduction of the $WORK token is a cornerstone of Work X’s ecosystem. It is a native token designed to foster engagement and fair reward distribution across the platform. It facilitates various services within Work X, creating a sustainable economic flywheel that benefits all participants.
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The utility of WORK is something to look out for as well: Access to Platform Services: Users need to hold $WORK tokens to access various services on Work X, such as job postings, skill assessments, development courses, and the AI Assistant. The token is essential for covering transaction fees and other operational costs like AI tokens and server maintenance. Collateral for Job Listings: To ensure job listings adhere to Work X’s code of conduct, tokens are required as a deposit. This mechanism helps maintain the integrity and quality of job postings on the platform. Rewards for Platform Support: Users contributing to the platform’s liquidity by holding $WORK tokens receive rewards in the form of additional $WORK tokens. These rewards are issued within an NFT, acknowledging and incentivising their support for the platform’s sustainability and growth. Platform NFTs: Achievements on Work X are rewarded with NFTs containing $WORK tokens. Users who add liquidity to the $WORK token also enjoy an attractive APR on their holdings, further enhancing the token’s utility and appeal. Their roadmap is as comprehensive as a roadmap can be, with some exciting developments for 2024:
Unique Aspects • • • • • •
➢ Peer-to-Peer Connectivity: Eliminating traditional intermediaries, Work X enables direct and transparent interactions between businesses and the workforce. ➢ AI-Enhanced Assistance: Powered by GPT4, the platform provides bespoke suggestions for job descriptions and professional development, tailoring its services to individual needs. ➢ Decentralised Framework: Work X’s decentralised approach democratises the job market, empowering users to take charge of their professional paths. ➢ Zero commercial recruitment fees: These ensure maximum salary for workers and minimise workforce costs for businesses. ➢ Full control over career data: It reinforces users’ ownership of their professional reputation. ➢ Transparent and reliable hiring process: This is possible with on-chain verification of skills and work experiences.
Work X stands not merely as a platform but as a beacon for the future of work. It reflects a shift towards a more connected, autonomous, and user-centric employment ecosystem. With its forward-thinking approach and commitment to user empowerment, Work X is poised to redefine our engagement with the web3 world, making it an exciting prospect in the evolving landscape of work.
Final Thoughts
As we look ahead to 2024, this year is brimming with promise and excitement. Each token in our top 5 list brings something unique to the table:
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➢ $PYTH stands out with its innovative approach to real-time financial market data, revolutionising how we access and utilise this vital information.
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➢ $BEAMX breaks new ground in the GameFI narrative, offering an immersive platform that’s redefining gaming and developer experiences.
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➢ $TIA is a shining example of how modular blockchain technology can elegantly scale with its user base, showcasing the adaptability and growth potential of blockchain networks.
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➢ $GROK captures the spirit of the AI revolution, merging technology with the whimsical world of meme culture.
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➢ $WORK is transforming the job market with its decentralised platform, making professional connections more accessible and efficient.
Each of these coins not only signifies a substantial technological leap forward but also epitomises the diverse and innovative essence of the cryptocurrency industry. In 2024, a new era unfolds for crypto and blockchain technology. As we traverse these thrilling advancements, let’s revel in the potential these coins usher in. Here’s to a year brimming with exploration, progress, and optimistically prosperous ventures for all!
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Gem Hunting Tips & Tricks written by Daniel Jimenez
On social media, we often read fascinating stories of crypto users getting rich with some early-stage gems discovery, which allows them to amass considerable amounts of money in an upward rally.
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But how do they do it? Is it as easy as it sounds to get a new project, invest and make big profits? Well, if there is one thing characterising crypto since its inception, it’s how volatile the market is and how wild it can be to make and lose considerable amounts of money in minutes. However, beyond the due diligence that all crypto users must do to avoid falling into scams, rug pulls or failed projects, there are some tips & tricks that can allow you to be at the forefront of the ‘next big thing’ in crypto, but without forgetting two fundamental rules for every investor: DYOR and don’t invest more than you are not willing to lose! Here are a few tips and tricks to help you increase your portfolio while you get to your first million!
1.- Gathering information While technical and fundamental analysis is good, it has limitations, hence the need to be accompanied by reliable information. In this digital age, it is easy to access ‘good information’. Just look in the right place, filter and don’t let the bots fool you! The most effective way I have seen in this journey called crypto to find x100 gems is to follow people who have information that you don’t! To do so, you can use tools to track smart money coming from large wallets associated with VCs, Crypto Whales or influential personalities in the space like:
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● DexScreener, Arkham Intelligence, the token analyser ● Debank’s Whale section or Blockchain explorers ● VC trackoor on Dune Analytics or Cryptoran, for example
The strategy is simple: look for a token or altcoin that has performed well but is no longer “interesting” to buy. Then, use tools like Dexscreener or Candlestick to identify the area before the price explosion.
Considering the right entry moment is vital, especially when you are not using sniping bots (i.e. Unibot or Maestro), it is ideal to wait a bit to try to buy low. Next, use a free tool such as Dune Analytics or Arkham Intelligence to study the selected token or altcoin and get a complete overview of the wallet addresses that profit from said token. Filter the list by eliminating wallet addresses referring to the MEV bot. Focus on the wallet addresses of real people.
Identify the wallet addresses that have made tremendous gains with this token, as they could have insider information for you. They are usually part of the team, developers, investors, etc. Remember the case of Andre Conje and Yearn Finance? From $3 to $30k !!! Huge Profits for those who followed their moves! Copy the target wallet address and go to Arkham or Debank DeFi, another free wallet analysis tool. It analyses the investments and trades made by this wallet address.
You can turn on a notification from the app to receive it on your phone to be alerted of a potential new investment made by this user. Back at DeBank, you can check the Whales section to follow the investments of big players in the industry. Generally, crypto whales have insider information that you do not possess.
Remember to look closely at the portfolios of crypto whales, as, for the most part, their portfolios do not have risky assets, but sometimes you may come across a gem you need to learn about. Last but not least are the significant investment funds. Investors generally have access to privileged and verified information about projects in their early stages. Again, use free tools available in Dune Analytics to track the wallet addresses of these big players. Blockchain explorers like EthereScan or Arkham Intelligence are also excellent options to access this type of information. Consider that platforms such as Cryptorank offer a section to view promising projects backed by significant VCs. You can identify them, view their portfolio and do your due diligence on the projects they are supporting to identify new gems.
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Not least, you can use Lunar Crush to connect influencers engaged with your project to study, which allows you to have up-to-date information with a notification about the unravelling of the potential crypto gem! Lunar Crush is a platform that monitors the social performance of tokens and the social media accounts that drive your social media exposure.
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2.- Refine your selection criteria An important fact to consider when trading with the selected token or altcoin that is a “gem” is the selection of the appropriate parameters to filter the information and avoid falling into traps of token scams or failed projects. For this, it is imperative to use tools that allow users to filter tokens according to liquidity, pair age, and FDV, among other parameters. Excellent liquidity is a good symptom of the project and will allow you, if wanted, to quickly exit your positions. When interested in trading new gems, focus on a list of good age pairs.
On your watch list, remember to do the due diligence of thoroughly researching the basics of the project: tokenomics, team, whitepaper, etc. This research is critical to understanding the usefulness of the project and its future market potential. Finally, skip projects with billions of tokens in supply. It’s best to search for projects with fewer coins as they have the most potential to grow in price and keep the market cap realistic.
3.- Check the smart contract It never hurts to be suspicious of crypto! While we are supposed to be trying to capture gems from ‘trusted’ sources such as crypto whales, influencers or VCs, we should remember the sad episodes of the past (Terra, FTX saga, BitBoy Crypto, and others). For this reason, Double Quadruple check all smart contracts of new peers. In this case, use vulnerability scanning tools like the De.Fi screener or Honeypot.
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4.- Don’t FOMO Blindly Now that you have your gem in place, you know that there are no vulnerabilities that will compromise your funds, and you can trade with no downside; once you have selected the correct entry time, it is imperative to remember to avoid FOMO at all costs. FOMO (Fear of missing out) is ever present among traders, especially those less experienced. And when prices are up, FOMO is everywhere.
The above chart is a pattern in 90% of the tokens on the BNB Chain and in a good portion of the emerging projects in Ethereum and the industry in general. In this case, you should fine-tune your strategy and set sell orders of at least 50% of your positions once the price increases. You may hold the rest if you see potential for future growth. Whatever the case, consider that professionals never rely solely on the “buying and waiting for a perfect exit point” strategy. A good strategy here would be to join GSIC signals & Lisa Bot to mitigate the risks!
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Whatever the case, don’t get carried away by emotions and isolate your gaze from the friend on the side who became a millionaire by kittycatcoin. Make profits and celebrate them in your wallet!
5.- Protect your funds at all costs This should be the first point in this guide. But it’s never too late when it comes to cybersecurity. Whatever the case, you can’t imagine how much money you can make with crypto when you find a hidden gem, so no matter how much money you make at the end of the day, it’s no use if you get hacked. I have suffered a wallet hack, and believe me, you don’t want to go through this. Even the most experienced can fall for it. Therefore, you should do everything you can to avoid this from happening. The first tip is to divide your most valuable assets into hardware wallets. Yes, I know, Ledger recently cost the industry almost $500 million, but if you are up to date with the information, you will have avoided falling down this list.
You can avoid The Ledger case By being an active crypto gem hunter. To do so, create separate wallets to connect and interact with some of the dApps mentioned in this post. Don’t stay active with your most valuable assets in hot wallets! Similar to point three, check all links before clicking on them. Be wary if it is too good to be true because it probably is.
A fundamental aspect of the early Bitcoin era was physical notepads to write down and save your seed phrase. Today, many people need to remember this, take screenshots of their seed phrases, and save them to their devices, which can be compromised and drain their funds. Finally, be cautious and learn from the great millionaires that no one knows: Don’t tell people how many cryptocurrencies you have! If you’ve made it this far, you’re ready to go out and hunt for the next gem that will make you a millionaire! Searching for hidden gems within a universe of thousands of assets in the crypto ecosystem can be overwhelming. Still, with the right approach, it is possible to identify projects with significant potential. However, remember that every crypto investment has its risk, so DYOR and -not risking more than you are willing to lose- are aspects that you should again remember and pay attention to at any time. In closing, remember the tips you should never overlook in your quest for the next crypto gem x100:
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• • • • • •
● Social media data is easy to manipulate. Whenever you see an unknown coin suddenly storming the internet, first, dig deeper to know whether it is not a pump and dump. ● Crypto gem hunting is rewarding but risky, given that it’s a goldmine for scammers, so be wary. ● Conduct thorough research on the token or altcoin you have selected before investing: project ID, source code, developer team, investors, utility, etc. ● Look at the holder’s number: If the coin concentrates in a few hands, it is a red flag to consider. Look at your tokenomics and check that everything is OK. ● Examine the smart contracts: Security first. ● Refrain from using your current wallet to interact with the following industry jewels. ● Keep up to date on project developments by joining your community, interacting with others, and checking crypto news websites to delve deeper into the project.
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Crypto opportunities for degens: Tokens and protocols we’re watching as degen-only investing opportunities!! written by Daniel Jimenez
We are on the verge of the next bull run in the market, and opportunities seem everywhere. Airdrops, Incentivised Testnets and new tokens that empower emerging protocols are fighting to attract the attention of users (aka investors) to increase their metrics and market valuation. With the extended Solana Season and an incoming Avax-Cosmos Season coming up to capture market share, plus the opportunities offered by RWAs, GameFi and DeFi in general in Ethereum and its vast ecosystem of L2’s, the possibilities seem almost endless to find that gem that will allow you to multiply your profits from 10x to 1000x in the next bull run on the way to our first million in crypto! Remembering the network fundamentals that see Bitcoin reaching new highs and all the network effects it generates in the industry, some opportunities seek to squeeze the most out of the audacity of those crypto-degens when investing their funds in this ecosystem. While investing in cryptocurrencies carries considerable risk, the best plays in this industry can seem a bit degenerate. Therefore, identifying and seizing early opportunity has been a path to success for many crypto investors. This post is a taste of the most outrageous opportunities you can find in crypto, and of course, it is only suitable for the most daring! Do your due diligence research (DYOR) before investing in any of the options recommended here, and remember not to risk more than you are not willing to lose!
Some considerations before starting As we pointed out in our post on hunting for crypto gems, there are a few considerations you need to take into account to get started with a degens’s crypto investment:
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● First and foremost, use different wallets than usual to avoid potential exploits. ● Get the necessary analytical tools to take an in-depth look at the relevant metrics of each project. ● Not less importantly, audit contracts as much as possible. ● Do the due diligence to explore the project thoroughly: tokenomics is the first place to start. ● I filter the possibilities to low cap projects but with ‘reasonable’ liquidity and seniority of listing of the pair to get traded. I filter projects for liquidity of at least $10k and seniority of more than 24 hours. ● Use appropriate exit strategies and stick to them to avoid risk. If the project is new and needs a solid foundation, take profit first and then hold parameters to take advantage of opportunities with the remaining balance.
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Starting with the King: BRC20 Sector There is no better way to start this ‘guide’ than with King Bitcoin. Beyond looting large amounts of BTC in your wallet, the growing ecosystem of BRC20 tokens and all things related to Inscriptions (Ordinals) opens up a range of opportunities like never seen before in the Bitcoin network. As this ecosystem develops, some projects are expected to grow by 100-200x. If you want to know more about BRC20, don’t forget to read our dedicated post on ISSUE 23:
Issue #23 - The Moon Mag Beyond ORDI and BRC20, flagship projects in this ecosystem, I will focus on three low caps. Dova Protocol: Dova is the first lending protocol built on the BRC20 protocol. Dova integrates another protocol with great potential in the BRC20 ecosystem: Multibit Bridge, a dual-sided bridge designed for easy cross-network transfers between BRC20 and ERC20 tokens.
With a marketcap of approximately $11 million, the $DOVA token has, in my opinion, the potential to grow a lot in the industry because it leverages two verticals: • ● DeFi in Bitcoin • ● Interoperability across the bridge to leverage Ethereum’s liquidity. In addition, the project, being integrated with Multibit Bridge, allows us to take advantage of the $MUBI native bridge token market cap of $220M. The native $DOVA token is available on Uniswap at the moment, and since its release, it has grown meteorically up to 4,900%. BitStable is a decentralised asset protocol on Bitcoin for creating, trading, and managing synthetic assets. With a dual-token system and cross-chain compatibility, it enhances asset liquidity on the Bitcoin chain.
The protocol enables the use of BRC20 collateral to mint the stablecoin $DAII, leveraging the vertical on stablecoins (one of the largest markets in the industry) and synthetic assets in DeFi. Its $BSSB token has an FDV of just over $130 million and has grown 5x since its listing in midDecember on some interesting CEXs such as HTX, LBank and others. The optimism for this is highlighted by $DAII gaining increasing utility by offering Bitcoin a staggering triple-digit APR (~500%) and offering some use cases in DeFi on Ethereum. Chamcha: Finally, if you want to take advantage of the 2024 narrative of RWAs but in Bitcoin, you should consider trying Chamcha, one of the first RWA protocols in the BRC20 ecosystem. Chamcha holds great potential as it combines two rapidly growing narratives: RWA and BRC20. The Protocol serves as a liquidity-building and yield protocol for BRC20 projects. To build this liquidity, Chamcha uses AI to meticulously analyse big data, tracking and predicting potential assets within the Bitcoin ecosystem.
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Its native $CHAX token has managed to achieve growth of up to 1,900% from its lowest level, following its listing on some major centralised exchanges such as BitMart and MEXC.
Solana Season Extended If you missed Jito’s airdrop, you won’t want to miss this section of the post. During the next bull run, many agree that Solana will create millions. To do this, you need to identify low-cap tokens with massive potential. We want to share some of them, but remember, the ecosystem is colossal, and the general network growth has been impressive in recent months. Before proceeding, if you are new to the ecosystem and want to learn all about Solana, I invite you to read our ISSUE 10 post:
Issue #10 - The Moon Mag Jupiter Exchange: This decentralised exchange has managed to surpass Uniswap in volume ($992M vs $909M) during the writing of this post, a not-inconsiderable milestone! Their JUP token has been part of a team strategy to encourage users to use their protocol. According to their website, their goal is to help deliver world-class experiences to their users with as little work as possible, regardless of their use case or needs.
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To achieve this goal, DEX offers tools to develop dApps such as swaps, perpetual, DCA, etc. On 15 December last, after two years of work, Jupiter reached more than 100,000 DAUs between its four products. Currently, the project has the $JLP token, a perpetual liquidity provider token, which peaked at $15 per unit in just over a month, up 1,004.60% from its lowest level ever recorded. However, those wishing to capture the project’s momentum must know that the native $JUP token is undoubtedly the big jewel in the crown, and the expectations for it to surpass that emulated by its peer $JTO are high! Marinade Finance: To take advantage of Solana’s liquidity, Marinade is another project to keep on your radar in this Solana season. The protocol is a stake automation platform that monitors all Solana validators and delegates to a single 100+ best-performing ones. The protocol also offers the option of Liquid Staking for the native token of the Solana blockchain network and functions as a fundamental part of the successful airdrops that have occurred on the network recently (up to 4 digits!). With an FDV of almost $314 million, the native token $MNDE can be an option for this ecosystem lover, given that it is on top-tier exchanges such as Coinbase, Bing, and Gate.io. Its return in just over a year has been 15.755% from its low, demonstrating future potential in the next bull run.
Dark Protocol: This last recommendation may be an outrageous gamble, but who doesn’t love privacy? While Tornado cash had its drawbacks, there is no doubt that the demand is high, and Dark Protocol is a decentralised SPL-Token issued via Governance by individuals who saw the need for private money.
Dark’s advantage is that its namesake token is composable, can leverage smart contracts, and has a many-pairs protocol backing it. The $DARK token has gone unnoticed thus far, even with a market cap of just $10M and a valuation of up to -46% relative to its ATH.
L2’s gems Although many are looking at the big L2s such as LayerZero, Linea and Starknet, there are some alluring options in this category too. Aevo is one of them. It is the first L2 derivative focused on options and perpetual trading. The project, built on its L2 on the OPStack base and its newly launched PROOF token, has substantial potential in the next bull run.
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To close this section, consider BLAST, the first Ethereum L2 with native yield for ETH and stablecoins, which received sizable funds from Paradigm and other large investors last November. The CEO is the co-founder of Blur, the fruitful NFT marketplace that took the top spot from Opensea. You hold ETH on the Blast L2 and automatically receive interest through autocompound ETH staking. If you have 1 ETH on Blast, it will grow to 1.04, 1.08, and 1.12 ETH.
In addition, you can hold stablecoins and farm interest via auto-staking through MakerDAO.
AVAX-Season If Solana has made a splash, one should recognise what the AVAX ecosystem has achieved in recent months, especially around projects that have yet to launch a token. Due to increased interest and the search for opportunities, Avax has seen an impressive +92.3% increase in December, according to Coingecko’s data. Given this interest, many good small-cap projects can generate excellent returns. Trader Joe is the largest DEX on Avax, and following its announcement to expand its protocol to the Mantle ecosystem, the native $JOE token has experienced a compelling demand.
The protocol has announced that $JOE holders will be eligible for 2.5% of the total $MOE supply on TGE and a further 5% to get distributed over the coming 12 months, which is the reason behind the increasing demand. Another project to consider is EvoVerses, an NFT collection of card game characters with extraordinary abilities.
EvoVerses is a 3D PvP game built on Avalanche that attempts to revive the nostalgia of the popular Pokemon game and focuses on epic battles to collect rewards under the GameFi scheme. The native $EVO token is not yet available on any CEX, but its listing beyond Joe Trader’s borders could boost its price (and market cap) beyond the increase achieved since October 2023 as expected (+1,000%).
COSMOS Season Neutron is a project to watch among the extensive list available in the Cosmos ecosystem. The project focuses on giving smart contracts the powers of an application chain, allowing developers to create innovative applications and onboard users from anywhere. Neutron works with networks using the IBC protocol.
The native $NTRN token is available on top centralised exchanges such as Binance and Gate.io, which has managed to rank among the top 150 projects by market capitalisation. Kujira is another project to consider in Cosmos. Kujira is a decentralised L1 ecosystem for protocols, builders and web3 users offering a diverse DeFi infrastructure and sustainable financial technology.
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The $KUJI token, driven by economic activity, not just protocol fees, empowers the Kujira token value. $KUJI is among the top 106 projects by market capitalisation and is available on far-reaching DEXs within Cosmos and on the centralised exchange MEXC Global.
Further options There are many opportunities in the growing cryptocurrency ecosystem. Projects in relatively new ecosystems such as Celestia, Arbitrum and Polygon ZkEVM are some places where we can capture opportunities. GameFi, SocialFi, GambleFi, AI, RWA, DEXes, and Bots are just some of the narratives you can start looking for options to leverage. Many of them on this issue of The Moon Mag. BetSwirl, Pendle Finance, Radiant Capital, Polymesh, Ribbon Finance, DexCheck and BitTensor are a few options that complement our list on this occasion. No less important is what is happening around Injective, a fast-growing ecosystem with great potential despite some red flags about Injective. But beyond the opportunities, remember that the world of cryptocurrencies is a still growing ecosystem, a whole of hits and misses, and the correct portfolio management will largely depend on the due diligence of thoroughly researching the projects where you want to bet on success. Our last advice is to complement this post with two other excellent guides on this issue, RWAs and Crypto Gems, that can broaden the spectrum of opportunities for 2024 in the crypto world! Happy New Year!!
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Crypto Narrative 2024: Real-World Assets (RWA) written by Daniel Jimenez
We are already in a new year, and expectations in the industry are high, driven by various narratives where Bitcoin is the main attraction for what it can achieve both in prices and adoption once the next halving and ETF :) arrives. However, cryptos are more than bitcoin, and in 2024, there will be a lot of interest in new trends that will start to make some noise at the end of the year and might dominate part of this year’s narrative. In addition to traditional DeFi streams like GameFi, the emerging RWA trend is set to be a key player in the ecosystem for much of 2024.
This sector’s backing goes from prominent venture capital firms to industry influencers, matching the frenzy experienced in years past with the Metaverse narrative and NFTs. For this reason, we explore what this trend means for the industry and what opportunities we can begin to capitalise on in the market to diversify our portfolio.
RWA: DeFi’s fastest-growing assets RWA, or real-world asset tokenisation, is a process that has existed for several years where physical or tangible assets such as art, real estate, gold, or commodities become digital tokens.
The tokenisation of RWAs brings these off-chain assets onto the blockchain, thereby opening new possibilities and potential use cases. While not entirely new to the narrative, due to the existence of stablecoins and tokenised gold, for example, the current trend on RWAs is more focused on what it can achieve by incorporating use cases from traditional finance such as treasury bonds, real estate and private credit combined with blockchain technology to ‘scale’ their use. According to a report by Galaxy Research, the total value locked up (TVL) in RWA is just over $2.5 billion, estimated to have doubled by 2023. Among the reasons for its rise is the constant global macroeconomic change, where the bear market has played an important role that incentivises users to seek yields from traditional products such as private credit and treasury bonds but through channels within the blockchain.
At this point, it is essential to highlight a critical aspect that has set the RWA narrative apart from its similar peers in DeFi: RWAs have actors that can be centralised, decentralised, or a combination of both. These issuers, in size, include major financial institutions such as Franklin Templeton, which has issued some $310 million in RWAs based on tokenised U.S. Treasury instruments. So, if we want to know where the money flows in this sector, a good start would be to look at the involvement of Franklin Templeton and WisdomTree, two traditional financial firms dominating the RWA market with products based primarily on U.S. Treasuries. The aforementioned explains the sustained growth of RWAs from Treasury bonds (82%) concerning their real estate and private credit peers, all assets that form part of the RWA market together with stablecoins. This magazine is sole property of themoonmag.com and is not to be redistributed in any form anywhere else.
However, it is worth noting that Centrifuge, a loan-focused DeFi platform, is another RWA issuer with a significant presence in the sector, holding the title of largest private credit loan issuer with RWA assets worth approximately US$238 million.
Why use RWA? The tokenisation of real-world assets has proven its disruptive power for the traditional finance market. In the past, we have seen how stablecoins, for example, drove a more liquid market but also served as an essential bridge for the applications and the development of traditional finance use cases such as lending. Therefore, the benefits that drive RWAs are diverse for a traditional financial market plagued by red tape and disproportionate fees. Among the benefits that RWAs bring are:
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● Access to liquidity for illiquid assets: Tokenization, as discussed above, brings liquidity to many historically illiquid markets such as real estate, art or infrastructure. ● Transparency and traceability: Blockchain technology provides an additional layer of transparency and traceability for all assets on the chain, significantly reducing fraud or manipulation.
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● Market access: With RWAs, users worldwide can access previously inaccessible investment opportunities. ● Cost reduction: Tokenization offers the ability for efficiency in each of the asset transaction processes, significantly reducing the costs associated with the process ● Security: By verifying ownership of tokenised assets due to immutable records on the chain, investors have an extra layer of security over RWAs, which, in turn, facilitates the verification of these assets. ● Ease of trading: Digital tokens are highly transferable and tradable and even allow trading by fractions, opening up new investment opportunities to a broad spectrum of investors.
Regulatory compliance The lack of precise regulation in some countries may hinder the widespread adoption of asset tokenisation. However, advances in the sector are allowing (within an ambiguous regulatory framework) the emerging development of new protocols that seek to connect the best of both worlds. For many users, how functions are licensed for RWA projects rather than traditional decentralised protocols sometimes needs to be clarified. At this point, ‘Compliance’ is a crucial aspect to understand. Compliance, as the term implies, means following the rules. Compliance is mandatory. On this point, RWA projects strive to get it right, even if they need licenses to tokenise securities in a credible jurisdiction. A tokenisation project could remain compliant without a license, and they would have to avoid tokenising securities. By avoiding securities, they do not break the law, i.e. they ‘comply’. However, there’s a point of diatribe: Securities currently account for 80% of the RWA market, so there are other options than avoiding them. Given this scenario, RWA projects are partnering with financial institutions with licenses, thus giving rise to issuers that assume legal responsibility for the tokenisation process, and the unlicensed technology provider offers the necessary tools for deployment and commercialisation. Thus, licensed projects are preferably more prominent in the RWA market due to risk management for any financial institution seeking to simplify the due diligence process. Hence, the importance of the average user and investor perspective to look for licensed projects to participate in the RWAs market, understanding that depending on the jurisdiction where the jurisdiction is issued, it will be exponentially more credible than a similar one (it is not the same a license from Singapore, than one in Malta for example).
Market opportunities The RWA market, including those opportunities driven by stablecoins, has managed to catapult to the sixth position in the DeFi sector, with an LTV of just over $5,485 million, experiencing remarkable growth since the beginning of the year.
The above demonstrates that the RWA market is an excellent place to find potential gems that can make 100x in the next bull market! Currently, Maker RWA (Maker DAO) and stUSDT (the first RWA project launched on Tron) dominate the decentralised real-world asset (RWA) market scene, with a combined LTV of $4.802 billion (87%). However, users can seize some opportunities at an early stage. Market-wide LTV is expected to reach $10 trillion by 2030 across the RWA sector’s different tokenised asset types.
The key to obtaining these potential gems of the RWA market lies in analysing the tokenomics of each project and assuring they have a healthy base. That said, let’s look at some exciting examples within RWAs.
Centrifuge This protocol, launched in 2017, is the largest issuer of private credit loans. According to Galaxy Research data, 74% of the value of active private credit loans on the chain comes from this protocol. Centrifuge connects decentralised finance with real-world assets (RWA) tokenising assets that allow SMEs to raise capital and investors a stable source of income, using the tokens as collateral through its Tinlake dApp built on Polkadot to access the scalability and low fees of the network, while allowing it to leverage the liquidity Ethereum offers for funding.
The project’s foundation is its CFG token, which enables liquidity within its protocol and rewards its investors. The project links assets such as invoices, real estate, and royalties with the DeFi sector, allowing borrowers to finance their real assets without banks or intermediaries. CFG gets traded on some of the industry’s top-tier exchanges, such as KuCoin, Gate, BingX, OKX, and Kraken.
LandX Finance LandX is a rapidly evolving protocol within the DeFi sector, designed to create a direct link between agricultural land owners and cryptocurrency investors through perpetual vaults of blockchain-based products. These vaults act as tokens that can be traded with a price determined by the market, thus establishing the ‘deal’ between borrowers (in this case, farmers) and investors.
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The protocol attempts to address the gap in farmers’ capital access and investors’ lack of exposure to actual farmland assets, allowing investors (aka holders of LandX tokens) to receive a daily return on the underlying product in perpetuity. Farmers commit a portion of their land’s crop-share through a legal contract secured by their land, where an NFT on-chain represents the crop-share agreement. This commitment is tokenised as xTokens, representing the agreed-upon crop share traded for upfront capital by farmers. Farmers can exit obligations by buying back xTokens or selling them for capital, offering a more flexible financing option. The protocol bases its tokenomics on the LNDX governance token. The LNDX token model of LandX in DeFi stands out by offering actual yield from real-world production, which is different from many governance tokens. The protocol is well-funded. The seed investors are locked in for an initial four-year term, after which they will get vested over the following four years. This strategic approach demonstrates LandX’s dedication to building sustained growth.
The platform was launched in mid-December and uses Chainlink oracles for its commodity prices. For now, LNDX is marketed in the main DEXs of the ecosystem, such as Uniswap and PancakeSwap, with its listing on the exchanges expected in the first quarter of 2024.
Tangible Within the Real Estate category in the RWAs market, the Tangible protocol has stood out in 2023 for its strong growth in the sector, as highlighted by Galaxy Research in its latest report. In the first three quarters of the year alone, Tangible saw its TVL jump from $100.00 to $64m. Although the project is still far from overtaking the dominant sector, such as RealT Tokens, which occupies a 49% market share, Tangible could be a key player in one of the sectors that grew the least within the token market this year. RWA. Tangible uses Real USD, a native yield stablecoin backed by real estate, to allow anyone to purchase physical goods from the world’s leading suppliers. In the protocol, acquired assets get minted as a ‘Tangible non-fungible token’ (TNFT) that represents the physical item to trade. The particularity of the protocol is that it offers TNFT owners the possibility of exchanging their digital version for a physical one.
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However, tangible real growth has come from something other than collectables but from the real estate sector, as we have previously noted. In this case, the protocol manages the properties within a legal entity created exclusively for this purpose called a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV). All properties are rented, and the rental yield is paid to TNFT holders in USDC. In addition, it is possible to buy a complete property and a fraction of it through TNFT.
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The project offers a natural connection between the crypto native and the true collectors, where they can find everything from fine wine to luxury watches, gold, cars, art, etc. Tangible uses the eponymous token $TNGBL as its native token and as an incentive to receive more returns on its platform by locking its tokens within the platform in the form of a special NFT called 3.3 NFT. 3.3+ Tangible NFTs are locked $TNGBL token positions that reward you the longer you lock your $TNGBL tokens The token gets traded on major decentralised exchanges such as Uniswap, Balancer, and Pearl.
Summing Up The RWA narrative has enormous potential for 2024, and the number of RWA token holders on the blockchains is expected to increase. If we’re bullish on RWA, the answer is YES! The RWA and DeFi markets have great potential for industry development due to the numerous benefits it brings to the financial market and the encouragement of dynamic development of the traditional market. The RWA incorporation into Blockchain is an inevitable necessity to avoid the risks to which delays in the transfer of assets get exposed, generating growth opportunities. While the three protocols above are just an appendix to the prominent projects making their way into the industry, it is vital to understand that investment opportunities lie in the platforms that enable the tokenisation of RWA and support its circulation.
Thorough assessments and liquidity are crucial to sound decision-making. For this reason, we expand our selection by pointing out some exciting projects in all verticals of the RWA market:
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Blockchains: Intain, Provenance Blockchain, Realio Network, Polymesh Network, Mantra Chain, Tokenfi , etc.
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Securitization / Tokenization: Centrifuge, Securitize, INX , Curio Ecosystem, Domani Protocol and more.
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Regulatory: Quadrata Network, Tokeny Solutions, SpruceID and others.
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Real Estate: Mattereum, RealT Platform, Robinland, Ekta Chain, Parcl, PropyInc, Blocksquare, and more.
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Climate: Regen Network, KlimaDAO, Flowcarbon, Toucan Protocol, FriggEco, Clearpool etc.
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Private Fixed Income: Maple, TrueFiDAO, Clearpool, Fortunafi and others.
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Public Fixed Income / Public Equities: Swarm, Ondo Finance, Backed, Vested Finance,and others.
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Emerging Market: Goldfinch, Credix Finance, Bru Finance, etc.
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Trade Finance: Defactor_, Polytrade, Consol Freight, Realio, Revest Finance, Alliance Block etc.
Hottest Crypto Events In 2024
written by Samantha Jimenez
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2024 will offer many events within the crypto ecosystem driven by technology and cryptocurrencies. These events will serve as a bridge to connect leaders, creative minds, and personalities worldwide. Join us for an early tour of educational experiences, networking opportunities, and insights that will shape the technology landscape in this exciting year.
1. París Blockchain Week 2024 https://www.parisblockchainweek.com/
Paris Blockchain Week 2024 will happen from April 8 to 12 at the iconic Carrousel du Louvre, France. This fifth edition promises to surpass past events while providing the opportunity to learn about the latest trends and innovations within this ecosystem. The conference will address broad topics, ranging from custody and decentralised finance to artificial intelligence and NFT gaming. In addition, Paris Blockchain Week 2024 will be a hub that will bring together business leaders, investors, entrepreneurs, and developers who will converge with each other to collaborate and drive progress in Blockchain and Web3. Key themes and focus on innovation Under the theme “Unlocking the Future,” the conference will dive into the latest innovations and trends in critical areas such as Web3, NFT gaming, CBDC, European regulations, AML, traceability, infrastructure and security, and blockchain.
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Why attend? At this event, attendees can immerse themselves in a valuable educational experience while meeting and interacting through networking with leading professionals. It is also possible to see exhibits from companies promoting products, services, and their latest developments; it is a way to connect and learn about trends. Tickets for this great event are now available on the official website and range from €120 to €5,250. Renowned speakers On the other hand, the event will feature an impressive list of speakers, including David Marcus, Denelle Dixon, Yat Siu, Yoni Assia, Marieke Flament (CEO of Near Foundation), Alexandre Dreyfus (CEO of Chiliz), Richard Teng of Binance, among others.
Reflections on 2023 and expectations for 2024 According to data published by the event, last year’s edition gathered at least 8,500 leaders, where discussions on Web3, the metaverse, and the revolution in the world’s ways of consuming and doing business were highlights of the event. In 2024, expectations are to surpass previous ones through an enriching educational experience.
Celebrating innovation and excellence: Industry Awards at Paris Blockchain Week 2024 But that’s not all. The event also features an awards ceremony on April 11th, highlighting the pioneers and visionaries shaping the industry landscape. This magazine is sole property of themoonmag.com and is not to be redistributed in any form anywhere else.
For this, several categories range from brand innovation to social impact, regulatory innovation, and outstanding personality in the Web3 space. The selection process involves a submission process that runs until January 15th, with a shortlisting jury of industry experts choosing the top five nominees in each category. Notable winners last year included Ethereum’s Vitalik Buterin as “Web3 Personality of the Year” and the Cardano Foundation, recognised for its “Outstanding Contribution to the Event”. In addition to the local categories, the event includes global categories that recognise emerging technology builders, best investors, Web3 corporate excellence, and visionaries of the year. All in all, Paris Blockchain Week 2024, with its awards ceremony and wide-ranging agenda, promises to be a landmark event in this ecosystem, celebrating innovation, excellence, and groundbreaking achievements that drive the sector’s evolution.
2. Blockchain Life 2024 in Dubai
Another major event taking place this year is Blockchain Life 2024 in Dubai. It is presented as a window into the financial future. The event will happen on April 15th and 16th at the Festival Arena. This central international forum aims to become the epicentre of the Web3 revolution and cryptocurrencies.
https://blockchain-life.com/asia/en/ At least 8,000 participants from 120 countries will be able to understand how using cryptocurrencies can boost their revenues. They will also have access to face-to-face meetings with Crypto Whales, the industry leaders, while building working and professional relationships.
On the other hand, more than 150 booths with innovative companies are on standby, providing the opportunity to interact with pioneering teams and establish direct connections with CEOs. According to Dr Marwan Alzarouni, CEO of the Dubai Blockchain Center, this is where venture capitalists, funding, and big projects find their home.
Prices and speakers Tickets are on sale now and range in price from $129 to $799. Last year’s Blockchain Life Forum brought together more than 80 world-renowned speakers to share their ideas. So this year, it promises to be equally impressive. Among the prominent speakers we can anticipate are Justin Sun, founder of TRON; Eowyn Chen, CEO of Trust Wallet; and Yat Siu, co-founder and executive chairman of Animoca Brands. These top-tier speakers will share their knowledge with attendees and provide an insider’s view of the emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities facing blockchain technology today. Another major event taking place in both Dubai and Singapore is Token2049. This is an annual gathering that takes place every year, with the recent 2023 edition taking place in September. The next event is in Dubai on 18 and 19 April 2024, and tickets are Sold Out. The event in question is renowned for bringing together visionaries, executives and founders of the leading Web3 projects in the ecosystem, shining a light on global developments and exploring all the great opportunities the ecosystem offers. TOKEN2049 can bring together very bright minds and has a capacity of more than 20,000 attendees, 300 speakers, and more than 400 sponsors, with the active participation of more than 5,000 companies. In this sense, it is an event that is not only a stage for the latest innovations in the crypto industry but also makes connections between entrepreneurs, investors, developers and enthusiasts, thus consolidating the crypto community.
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3. TOKEN2049 https://www.token2049.com/
Another major event in Dubai and Singapore is Token2049, an annual gathering whose next edition, already sold out, will happen in Dubai on April 18th and 19th, 2024. The event is well-known for joining visionaries, executives and founders of the leading Web3 projects in the ecosystem, shining a light on global developments and exploring all the opportunities offered by the ecosystem. TOKEN2049 can bring together very bright minds and has a capacity of more than 20,000 attendees, 300 speakers, and more than 400 sponsors, all with the active participation of more than 5,000 companies. In this sense, it is an event that is not only a stage for the latest innovations in the crypto industry but also makes connections between entrepreneurs, investors, developers and enthusiasts, thus consolidating the crypto community.
Speakers 2024 In addition, the importance of the speakers is a crucial point, given that its last edition in Singapore brought together prominent speakers such as Tyler Winklevoss of Gemini, Arthur Hayes of BitMEX, Jeremy Allaire of Circle, and panels with experts chaired by Changpeng Zhao of Binance and Justin Sun, founder of TRON DAO who shared their perspectives and knowledge in this great event with the attendees. Now, the Dubai edition will feature keynote speakers such as Sandeep Nailwal, Co-Founder of Polygon; Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether; Arthur Hayes, CIO of Maelstrom; Daniel Alegre, CEO of Yuga Labs; Sergey Nazarov, among others. Why attend? But that’s not all; the exciting thing about TOKEN2049 is that it is not limited to two days of conferences but extends throughout the TOKEN2049 Week as it offers framed learning experiences through networking areas, workshops, dinners, meetings and more; it’s a dynamic space created for connections and exploration of opportunities in the crypto market. According to their X account, Super Early Bird tickets sold out, but if you missed the sale, there are still a limited number of Early Bird tickets available for USD 599 each, which users can get on their official website.
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4. eMerge Americas2 024: Shaping the future in Miami https://emergeamericas.com/startups/overview
The event will happen in the renovated Miami Beach Convention Center on April 18th and 19th, 2024, hosting brilliant minds, entrepreneurs, visionary investors, and technology leaders worldwide. Why attend? This event will allow you to explore the latest advances in technology and Artificial Intelligence and its latest trends. Attendees will be able to learn about opportunities in healthcare technology, financial technology, and much more. They will also be able to connect with interactive exhibits and product demonstrations.
Renowned speakers and special tickets The conference brings together brilliant leaders from Tom Brady to Serena Williams and Eric Schmidt every year. Tickets, available now, range from $425 to $1,595, which offer access to various activities, from the Startup Showcase to the VIP reception and closing beach party. In short, eMerge Americas 2024 promises to be a unique technology event transforming Miami into a global innovation hub that aims to build a sustainable and inclusive future.
5. Digital Business World Congress (DBWC): Digital Transformation on Stage in Malaga https://www.des-show.com/es/
With 250 hours of conferences at a congress packed with renowned international speakers, the Digital Business World Congress (DBWC) takes the stage in Malaga from June 11th to 13th, where attendees will explore new business models and debate leadership and digital strategies. The Digital Business World Congress becomes the epicentre of knowledge, where more than 450 international experts from over 50 countries share experiences in various sectors. Malaga, host for the third consecutive year, consolidates its position as a hub of reference in exponential technologies, attracting global leaders and stimulating local industry. European Digital Mindset Awards 2024 In addition to this event, the European Digital Mindset Awards will have a space that aims to recognise and reward excellence in digital transformation; the European Digital Mindset Awards cover various categories, addressing critical aspects of the digital revolution.
Some categories include Best Digital Transformation Company, Best Inspirational/Influential Journalistic Work, Best Marketing Campaign, Best Disruptive Digital Start-up, and Best Sustainability-oriented Digital Project. These awards not only honour achievements in digital transformation but also foster healthy competition and inspiration for new initiatives to drive the evolution of the digital landscape in Europe. Ticket sales are not yet available but range from USD 90 to USD 1,500.
Why attend? Participating in the Digital Business World Congress (DBWC) offers you inspiration to transform your business, valuable connections with over 450 international leaders, access to global trends and successful models, the opportunity to lead intelligent and sustainable transformation, continuous updates on industry developments, critical insights to lead in the digital age, renewed perspectives through global exchange, and a powerful networking space with over 17,000 visitors. It’s your way to get rewarded for your innovation.
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6. Bitcoin 2024 Nashville: 21% discount if you pay for your ticket with Bitcoin https://b.tc/conference/registration
Bitcoin 2024 Nashville is an event that explores the full potential of Bitcoin and how this cryptocurrency has transformed the way we now perceive the digital economy and transactions. That is Bitcoin 2024 Nashville in the United States, which will occur from July 25th to 27th. It will be an opportunity to bring together many leaders, experts, and companies that, through experiences and knowledge exchange, will dive into the potential of the leading cryptocurrency in the market. Tickets are already on sale and have a tempting 21% discount when paying with BTC. They range from USD 349 to USD 4,749. From technical sessions to the captivating Bitcoin Art Gallery, the conference will offer various opportunities to deepen knowledge and connect with the vibrant crypto community. High-calibre speakers The confirmed speakers are of high calibre, with
prominent names such as Edward Snowden, cybersecurity expert; Adam Back, CEO of Blockstream; Filip Karadordevic, Prince of Serbia; and Mark Nuvelstijn, CEO of Bitvávo. These prominent figures will share their perspectives and experiences on the main stage, offering a unique insight into the evolution of Bitcoin. Why attend? The goal is to continue cultivating and fostering a community where Bitcoin payments are widely accepted and become increasingly common as they unlock new opportunities, thus laying the foundation for sustained economic growth. So, the reason to attend is evident given that it provides access to cutting-edge Bitcoin knowledge, offers a platform to connect with other enthusiasts as they explore all this crypto culture and have access to exclusive and trending products.
7. Bitcoin Energy Summit 2024 https://www.bitcoinenergysummit.com/
The Bitcoin Energy Summit 2024 will happen from April 22nd to 23rd at the impressive Hilton Miami Downtown. The central themes at this conference will focus on Bitcoin, mining, and energy. This premier event will address energy solutions, power generation, sustainability, and more. Tickets are now available on their website, and prices range from USD 199 to USD 999.99. Tickets will also provide access to an inperson event full of knowledge, innovation, and networking opportunities in the heart of Miami. At its core, Bitcoin Energy Summit 2024 is all about sustainability in the crypto industry. It promises to be the epicentre of crypto-energy convergence, where experts, innovators, and enthusiasts will come together to address crucial issues and propose transformative solutions in the crypto and blockchain energy space.
Speakers Prominent speakers who will share their expertise include Jaime Leverton (CEO of Hut 8), Nick Harmon (Chief Investment Officer at Blockchain Global Capital), Matt Quinn (Ecosystem Development at Nervos Network), and other visionary leaders. Tickets are available now, and it’s worth noting that they accept payments in Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDC, and Dogecoin. Why attend? At this event, attendees will discover the latest sustainable practices and explore green technologies that reduce environmental impact while immersing themselves in discussions about renewable energy and its fusion with crypto mining.
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8. NFTNYC 2024 https://www.nft.nyc
The grand stage of New York’s Times Square will lit up for the next edition of NFT.NYC 2024. The event will be held from April 3rd to 5th, 2024. It is a unique conference on NFT issues. Since its inception in 2019, it has been a space that has allowed the participation of leading and influential people within this ecosystem. Developers and fans of NFTs are present and explore the latest trends and developments in the market, finding new use cases and echoing the adoption of blockchain.
that will push the boundaries of digital creativity and business innovation. A Parade of Innovators at NFT.NYC 2024 This year’s roster of influencers at NFT.NYC 2024 has expectations to surpass those from previous years. Names like Sandy Carter, COO of Unstoppable Domains, and Gav Blaxberg, CEO of WOLF Financial, are set to ring out. At the same time, the diversity of experience ensures a conversation rich in knowledge and insight.
Where and When? After an unforgettable experience in 2023 with more than 16,000 attendees from over 70 countries, expectations for this year are very high. In this sense, its organisers promise an edition
On top of all this, the event offers attendees a real-life experience by providing an exclusive selection of NFT from NFT.NYC and its partners via the “NFT Swag Bag”. Ticket prices range from USD 599 to USD 1,499.
9. Mallorca Blockchain Days https://mallorcablockchaindays.com/
Our latest event on the agenda for 2024 is in the idyllic setting of Palma, Mallorca, Spain, where the fifth edition of Mallorca Blockchain Days, an annual event that transcends the conventional boundaries of technology conferences, is coming up. Scheduled for July 11th to the 14th, 2024, this gathering focuses on Bitcoin and freedom, offering an exclusive and relaxed experience that fuses emerging technology with the paradisiacal surroundings of the Balearic island, and tickets start at €266.37. What makes Mallorca Blockchain Days unique? What makes this event unique is the focus on Bitcoin and Liberty. The fifth Mallorca Blockchain Days conference is positioned as a forum dedicated to exploring the synergies between Bitcoin and freedom, highlighting the role of cryptocurrency in financial autonomy. All this occurs in a relaxed atmosphere, free of formalities, where speakers and sponsors are carefully selected, and only projects that genuinely excite attendees get invited. The core mission of the event is to bring together freedom-loving individuals, facilitate networking, foster new friendships, and exchange ideas in a welcoming and private environment.
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Why participate? Is this event a ticket to an exclusive experience? Yes!. Limiting tickets to 100 ensures an intimate experience, allowing participants to connect with each attendee and speaker, creating a cohesive community. It also allows you to connect with meaningful experiences on Bitcoin’s role in achieving financial freedom, exploring practical use cases and innovative perspectives.
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10. Blockshow https://blockshow.cointelegraph.com/blockdown-asia2024/#tickets
We have saved the best for last; Blockdown, known for its parties and exotic locations, has this year joined forces with BlockShow. Blockshow returns after a 4-year hiatus with a pivotal collaboration with BlockDown Festival to bring a Web3 festival to life in Hong Kong in 2024. The event is scheduled for May 8th and 9th and will turn Hong Kong into a Web3 Party City.
Erhan Korhaliller, Founder of EAK Digital, in a fireside chat with Robby Yung, CEO of Animoca Brands
BlockShow and BlockDown have been two benchmarks in the blockchain world since 2016. In an event that sets standards and also celebrates the Web3 community. Among the prominent speakers who have attended previous editions are ecosystem leaders such as Vitalik Buterin of Ethereum, the Winklevoss brothers of Gemini, Changpeng Zhao of Binance, and other names that have been very influential in the crypto market.
Changpeng Zhao of Binance- BlockShow 2019 Source: Freewallet
Why attend? The main stage will be Cyberport, supported by the Hong Kong government, which will transform into a Web3 city with multiple dimensions: stages, exhibits, galleries and themed zones, including themes such as SocialFi, GameFi, Web3, art, music, culture, decentralised finance (DeFi) and real-world assets. BlockDown, a pioneer in virtual Web3 conferences since 2020, has evolved into in-person events. The last one in Portugal in 2023 included a fashion show in the metaverse and the participation of global brands. The upcoming BlockShow X BlockDown conference in Asia will be a stage for exclusive announcements, launches and insightful content featuring prominent industry personalities.
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Ticket prices The expectation is to gather 5,000 attendees, with pre-sale tickets ranging from $290 to $1,190, with an upcoming price increase. With a community focus and fun experiences, BlockShow seeks to fill a gap in the industry’s event offerings. It is an opportunity for immersion in the future of technology and the Web3 community. In the Footsteps of the Future in the Tech World of 2024 As we conclude this fascinating tour of some of 2024’s most prominent tech conferences, it is clear that this year will see significant developments in blockchain, cryptocurrencies, and emerging technologies. These events are to become not only educational forums but also spaces to make valuable connections and dive into exploring the latest trends. Paris Blockchain Week will lead the way, addressing crucial topics and exploring innovations in critical areas such as Web3, NFT gaming, CBDC, and European regulations. Meanwhile, events such as Blockchain Life in Dubai and eMerge Americas in Miami will provide opportunities to explore the financial future and forge the path toward an ever-evolving technological transformation. We can’t overlook the NFT revolution in New York, where NFT.NYC promises to be a window into the digital world, packed with innovators and exclusive opportunities. Ultimately, in every corner of the world where conferences come to life, they reflect the diversity and breadth of technology in our daily lives. At the same time, they are opportunities to connect us with the latest developments and trends in the market. 2024 is undoubtedly a year of change, considering all the important events within the halving ecosystem itself, so it promises to be a year for the adoption of innovation in a vibrant and changing technological world where we cannot afford to be left behind. Indeed, in every corner of the world, these conferences reflect the diversity and influence of technology on our lives while providing the opportunity to stay connected to the latest trends. As we embark on this exciting journey, it is clear that 2024 will be a pivotal year for innovation, collaboration, and the exploration of a vibrant and inclusive technological future.
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DeSci
Web3 Shapes the Future of Science written by Chris
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Introduction The last decade has shown us that DLT and blockchain technology have incredible potential to change the current financial landscape. An emerging narrative is Decentralised Science, DeSci, a movement reshaping ‘how we do science’. It primarily takes inspiration from the principles of DeFi but focuses on innovation in research methodologies and collaboration.
DeSci: A Leap Forward in Research DeSci’s mission is to simplify and streamline ‘how we do science’. It’s taking on the complex and often rigid systems that currently slow down research. Think of it as removing unnecessary red tape and reducing the power of profit-driven publishers. With DeSci, scientific knowledge becomes more open and easy to access, moving away from the traditional model where research is often hidden behind expensive journal subscriptions. The narrative is about fostering a more open and collaborative space for science, where knowledge is shared freely and more widely. It’s an exciting shift towards a world where scientific discovery and learning are more inclusive and readily available to all. That’s the TL;DR vision of DeSci. The crux of all this lies in how it addresses the scientific community’s pain points. The current system often forces scientists to spend more time seeking funds than conducting actual research. High costs for accessing research papers and an inefficient peer review process further stifle scientific progress. DeSci steps in with blockchain technology as a solution to these challenges.
Example of science pain points
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Research with DAOs in DeSci The emergence of DAOs within the DeSci landscape marks a shift in scientific research. DAOs are much more than mere funders; they’re the breeding grounds for transformative ideas. Simply put, DAOs democratise the decisionmaking process, allowing their contributors to shape the course of scientific inquiries or explorations and bring forward new ideas (depending on their skillset, of course). A community is probably the strongest narrative behind every project and every idea. The collective brainpower of diverse individuals, from seasoned scientists to enthusiastic amateurs, come together. Each member, regardless of their background, has an equal opportunity to influence which projects/ ideas receive support. This egalitarian approach is a stark departure from traditional, hierarchical funding models, ensuring a variety of innovative and potentially groundbreaking scientific ventures receive the attention and resources they need. The ethos behind DAOs in DeSci is to encourage daring, ‘moonshot’ ideas. These are projects that might not only challenge the status quo but also have the potential to revolutionise our understanding of science and technology. By leveraging the power of collective wisdom and resources, DAOs in DeSci are helping to pave the way for a future filled with extraordinary scientific breakthroughs. In essence, their role transcends beyond just introducing an alternative funding mechanism. It is a radical redefinition of how scientific collaboration, dissemination, and progression are perceived and executed. This new paradigm promises a future where scientific research is not only more interconnected and transparent but also significantly more impactful, potentially leading us to discoveries that we have yet to imagine.
the growth of specialised DAOs like Molecule, VitaDAO, LabDAO and many more. These DAOs are addressing specific challenges in scientific research, ranging from funding, peer review to access and various incentives among others. What’s remarkable is the breadth of fields they cover, with a notable focus on biotech and environmental sciences.
Utilising Blockchain for Scientific Progress DeSci leverages blockchain tools in several innovative ways:
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➢ Smart Contracts for Peer Review: Traditional peer review, often unpaid, benefits publishers more than the scientific community.
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➢ Incentivising Scientific Communities: Tokens and NFTs can motivate communities to share and curate information, creating resources like ‘smart manuscripts’.
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➢ Fighting Censorship: This allows permanent, accessible storage of data, can be considered a tool against censorship.
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➢ Novel Funding Models: This approach could lead to a self-sustaining ecosystem where commercial outputs fund further research.
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➢ Building Verifiable Reputations: Blockchain enables scientists to earn NFTs for valuable activities, creating a digital reputation system beyond traditional publishing metrics.
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➢ Redefining Education: Participants can learn and simultaneously contribute to science, building their digital reputation.
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➢ Community Ownership: Addressing concerns of single-platform control in Open Science, DeSci promotes governance by specialised communities.
The Rise of DeSci DAOs Since 2015, various science-focused blockchain initiatives have emerged, but it was in 2021 that these efforts crystallised into the DeSci movement. This period saw an upsurge of activities: from the sale of the first Open Science NFT for 13 ETH, to
Looking a bit deeper:
DeSci: improved Web3 tools
Smart Contracts for Peer Review Reviewing research papers is crucial but often goes unpaid, benefiting publishers more than the scientists. DeSci introduces a fairer system using smart contracts. Platforms like Ants Review show how these contracts can link authors directly with reviewers, compensating them with tokens for their valuable feedback. This new approach promises to make peer reviewing more rewarding and efficient.
Incentivising Scientific Communities DeSci is reimagining how scientific knowledge is shared. By using tokens and NFTs, it encourages scientific communities to actively participate in sharing and curating information. This leads to
the creation of ‘smart manuscripts’, linking opensource data and protocols. This new model could transform knowledge sharing, enhancing the reliability and usefulness of research, especially in the fast-paced world of preprints. Fighting Censorship in Science The immutable nature of blockchain creates a permanent and accessible data storage solution. That means everyone can have access to this information and shows the powerful tool against censorship in science, ensuring that research data and findings remain not only accessible but unaltered, safeguarding the integrity of scientific information.
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Revolutionising Scientific Funding Traditional funding models in science are often restrictive and biased. DeSci introduces innovative blockchain-based funding methods, such as quadratic funding and adaptations of DeFi protocols. These methods aim to provide sustainable financial support for scientists, paving the way for a self-sustaining research ecosystem where the commercial success of projects like drug IP NFTs can finance future scientific endeavours. Building Verifiable Scientific Reputations DeSci could be a new digital reputation system for scientists. By earning NFTs for their contributions beyond traditional publishing metrics, scientists can build a verifiable reputation. This system acknowledges a wider range of valuable scientific activities, promoting a more inclusive and rewarding research environment. Redefining Education in Science DeSci offers an exciting alternative to traditional scientific education as it moves online. It allows learners to engage in scientific tasks, such as data analysis and literature reviews, while building their
digital reputation. This approach not only enhances learning but also enables contributors to add value to the scientific community from anywhere in the world. Community Ownership of Scientific Knowledge DeSci addresses the risk of single-platform dominance in Open Science by promoting governance through specialised communities. This model fosters collective ownership of scientific knowledge, for instance, through the IP-NFTs we mentioned earlier. It ensures that the benefits and profits from scientific advancements are shared within the community, potentially reshaping how scientific achievements are funded and utilised for the greater good. The applications and different methodologies through blockchain technology is definitely something unique. The goal is to create an ecosystem where every contributor, from the scientist to the token holder, plays a vital role in shaping the trajectory of scientific discovery and advancement
To make it easier for you all, look at the chart below to see how DeSci improves science in contract with traditional science methods:
DeSci Projects Overview Each of the following protocols/DAOs play a vital role in reshaping the scientific landscape. These initiatives range from revolutionising biotech to transforming scientific publishing and funding. Let’s explore some of these: Multidirectional Projects
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➢ Bio.xyz: This project is a hub for DeSci and biotech projects, offering extensive support from legal to technical aspects. It has been instrumental in funding and supporting diverse initiatives like VitaDAO, LabDAO, and PsyDAO, marking its significance in the early steps of DeSci. ➢ DeSci Africa: Focusing on empowering African scientists, it provides support through specialised meetups and grants. This initiative aims to amplify the voice of African scientists in the global scientific community, showcasing the potential of DeSci in diverse geographical settings. ➢ Halogen: It’s a platform aiming to replace traditional scientific journals with a network of selfsustaining scientific communities. This initiative focuses on publishing, reviewing, documenting, and funding at the community level, tackling the challenges of traditional scientific publishing.
DeSci DAOs
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➢ Antidote DAO: This altruistic DAO is dedicated to funding cancer research initiatives, demonstrating the potential of DeSci in addressing critical health challenges. ➢ LabDAO: An open network of laboratories, LabDAO accelerates progress in biomedical and life sciences by connecting scientists with resources and expertise. ➢ AthenaDAO: A decentralised collective funding women’s reproductive health research, AthenaDAO highlights the role of DeSci in addressing niche but crucial areas of scientific research.
Financing and Philanthropy
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➢ Beaker DAO: This DAO supports the expansion of DeSci through research funding and IP management, contributing significantly to advancing this movement. ➢ Giveth: Focusing on building a culture that rewards those who give, Giveth is a platform that empowers for-good projects and supports their evolution into DAOs with regenerative economies. ➢ Moon Rabbit: This distributed crypto-conglomerate is focused on building scalable incentive models and Web3 infrastructure to accelerate Longevity R&D, showcasing the integration of blockchain in biotech advancement.
Scientific Publishing
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➢ Ants Review: A protocol that incentivises peer review, transforming the traditional unpaid academic review process by compensating reviewers with tokens. ➢ Sci2sci: A platform for scientists to store, share, and search research data. It aims to make scientific publishing more accessible and efficient, addressing the challenges of traditional scientific publishing. ➢ Planck: Focused on improving incentives in science by developing smart research contracts and peer-to-peer review networks, Planck represents a new paradigm in scientific publishing and knowledge sharing.
Biotech and Biopharma
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➢ BioDAO: Aims to fund biotech startups and drug discovery collectively, BioDAO represents the fusion of DeFi and biotechnology. ➢ Molecule: Inspired by open science, Molecule utilises blockchain tools to advance early-stage drug development, seeding new DAOs and advancing the funding of drug development projects. ➢ Vibe Bio: Aims to empower patient communities by building a DAO toolbox for co-owning and codeveloping therapeutics, Vibe Bio exemplifies patient-centric approaches in biotech.
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Space Tech and Exploration
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➢ LunCo: A collaborative space missions design tool powered by Web3, LunCo’s mission is to make humanity a multi-planetary species, highlighting the application of DeSci in space exploration. ➢ SpaceChain: Offers space-as-a-service for modern businesses, using existing space infrastructure to enhance blockchain experiences, bridging the gap between outer space and blockchain technology. ➢ TruSat: A blockchain-based database monitoring the orbital positions of satellites, TruSat is an example of applying decentralised technology in space tech for greater transparency and efficiency.
Of course, there are many more projects to explore that do some amazing things in this sector (see the image below). These diverse DeSci projects illustrate the vast potential of DeSci in various fields. From biotech to space exploration, each initiative plays a crucial role in pushing the boundaries of scientific research, fostering collaboration, and democratising access to scientific knowledge and resources. The landscape is rich with innovation, driving a new era of scientific discovery and advancement.
The DeSci landscape by Jocelynn Pearl
DeSci Challenges Understanding that challenges exist is crucial for the evolution and sustainable growth of the DeSci narrative.
While DeSci faces challenges, it tackled them head-on
1. Funding Limitations One of the most significant hurdles in DeSci is securing sufficient capital through Web3 mechanisms. Despite blockchain’s potential to transform scientific funding, DeSci initiatives often find themselves overshadowed by traditional financing methods and venture capital in terms of available resources. For DeSci to flourish and attract more investment, widespread adoption and recognition of its value are essential.
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2. Ensuring Research Quality The quality of research remains a concern. Why? There’s always a risk of diluting the quality due to contributions from individuals without adequate scientific expertise. Perhaps establishing robust peer review systems and management frameworks, like soulbound tokens (SBTs) for reputation management, is one way to tackle this. 3. Diversity in Participation Despite the inclusive ethos of DeSci, there’s a noticeable lack of diverse participation. Currently, the DeSci community is somewhat insular, primarily comprising individuals already engaged in crypto or scientific fields. As DeSci matures, it must address this imbalance to ensure that the decisions made reflect a broad spectrum of societal perspectives. 4. Centralisation in Blockchain Networks Ironically, the centralisation of power in blockchain networks – through either mining cartels in PoW systems or capital-heavy validators in PoS models – contradicts the decentralisation ethos. Exploring alternative models like Proof-of-Personhood (PoP) could provide a more equitable and democratic framework for DeSci projects. 5. Regulatory Landscape There are still many grey areas for the crypto and blockchain industry as a whole. This uncertainty poses risks to various aspects of DeSci, including DAOs, NFTs representing intellectual property, and SBTs. Additionally, the legal status of DAOs as general partnerships implicates all token holders in any legal actions, necessitating a clearer regulatory framework. 6. Integration with Conventional Science For DeSci tools and methodologies to be effective, they must seamlessly integrate into the existing scientific workflow. This integration should empower scientists to conduct impactful research without being hindered by the complexities of new technologies.
While these challenges may seem discouraging, many of them are already tackled by the community and regulation bodies around the world. Being able to freely participate in advancing or even learning the complexities behind science research, either you are a scientist or simply an enthusiast, is really empowering. DeSci challenges those above head-on!
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How to join DeSci? First and foremost, you can start with the DeSci wiki, curated by Dr. Jocelynn Pearl. This online repository is your first step to understanding DeSci’s diverse projects and how you can join the narrative. It’s an invaluable resource for both novices and seasoned enthusiasts looking to deepen their engagement in this field. On X: Engage with the community by following hashtags like #DeSci and connecting with influential voices, including: -
Bianca Trovò of Ants Review, Molecule’s co-founders Paul Kohlhaas and Tyler Golato and Jocelynn Pearl, co-founder of LabDAO.
Network on Telegram and Discord: For deeper engagement, join the vibrant discussions happening on Telegram and Discord. Groups like Blockchain of Science and Women in Web3 x Science on Telegram, and DeSciWorld on Discord offer a way for networking, sharing ideas, and finding collaborative projects. Direct Involvement: If you’re eager to actively participate, several DeSci projects welcome contributions from a diverse range of skills and backgrounds. Whether you are a scientist interested in Web3, technology, a digital nomad looking to work in a DAO or simply an enthusiast for building a community, there’s a role for you in this expanding ecosystem.
Watch This Space, This Could Be Big! DeSci is an evolving narrative at the forefront of redefining scientific research and collaboration. The number of initiatives is growing, opening doors for involvement at various levels. With this collective power and a pinch of enthusiasm, this could very well be one of the best narratives in the years to come. The caveat? The future of science is bright, and blockchain technology can boost it even further!