This month, we’re bringing you the latest, the greatest, and the downright wildest stories from the crypto and AI space. But first, let’s talk about what makes Moon Mag possible, passion, dedication, and, yes, a whole lot of funding. Josh and I have personally invested in building.
Moon Mag into what it is today. Every issue is crafted with love, research, and a commitment to keeping our readers ahead of the game. But let’s be honest, we’re always looking for advertisers who want to align with the most engaged, crypto-savvy audience in the space. If that’s you, slide into our DMs.
AI, Madness, and a Shocking Twist
This month, we’re introducing something game-changing, the AI Writer, our first-ever AI-generated content section.
Will AI reshape how we consume news? Will it take over financial journalism? Or will it end up as another overhyped tech trend?
One thing’s for sure: AI is making waves, but it’s not replacing human intuition just yet (especially after the ironic bomb that the man pushing for AI brain chips is sadly now deceased, a twist straight out of a sci-fi movie).
Hold your Cowboy hats… Crypto is Still the Wild West – Here’s the Proof!
As always, Moon Mag loves a good fact drop, and this month, we’ve got three insane crypto stats that prove just how fast this space is evolving:
1. Bitcoin Adoption Is at an All-Time High – As of March 2025, there are now more Bitcoin wallets holding at least 0.1 BTC than ever before in history. The people are stacking, and the revolution isn’t slowing down.
2.There’s a Lost Bitcoin Fortune Worth $150 Billion – That’s right over 3.7 million BTC are estimated to be permanently lost due to lost keys, forgotten passwords, and unfortunate mishaps. Somewhere out there, someone is still crying over that hard drive in the landfill.
3. Ethereum Smart Contracts Have Processed Over $30 Trillion in Transactions – While critics once called Ethereum a "developer experiment," the network has now facilitated transactions worth more than the GDP of the entire European Union. Yeah, let that sink in.
Whether you’re here to deep-dive onto the best projects, uncover the real story behind political meme coins, or geek out over AI’s role in Web3, this issue is packed with insights you won’t find anywhere else.
So, grab a coffee (or your beverage of choice), share this issue with five friends (because knowledge is power, and we all need to stack that intellectual capital), and let’s ride this crypto wave together.
The future is decentralised, and it belongs to those who dare to question everything.
Lisa
A note from Josh
This month’s Moon Mag is packed with the kind of stories that make you question where the crypto world is really heading. Bitcoin’s sitting at a “make-or-break” point March could either kick off the next parabolic bull run or leave traders staring at another sideways grind. Meanwhile, Ethereum’s PectrA upgrade isn’t just a technical tweak it’s a full-blown branding play, aiming to make “Built on Ethereum” as recognizable as “Intel Inside” once was. And if that’s not wild enough, political meme coins like $TRUMP and $LIBRA are dragging crypto straight into the political arena, turning digital tokens into ideological battlegrounds. It’s chaotic, unpredictable, and exactly why we love this space.
In the broader market, Bitcoin ETFs are soaking up supply like a sponge, pushing prices toward key resistance levels while Ethereum’s upgrade could redefine how DeFi scales from here. But it’s not just the big names making moves projects like Berachain and Quai Network are quietly rewriting the rules for Layer 1 blockchains, while Story Protocol is trying to flip intellectual property on its head with blockchain-backed ownership. Whether you’re here for the tech, the profits, or just to watch the madness unfold, one thing’s clear: crypto never stays still and neither should you. Enjoy!
SPONSORS
We are incredibly grateful to the following sponsors for their support. We run a ‘Sponsor A Writer’ campaign where crypto projects take part in an altruistic act of sponsoring our talented writers. By doing so, they play a crucial role in keeping the crypto economy alive and thriving, not only for our readership, but for the writers who provide 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
Daniel has been a blockchain technologyevangelist since 2012 and is a faithful believer in the Crypto ecosystem. Daniel also writes for Coin Telegraph!
Samantha
Freelance journalist dedicated to digital media, enthusiast of the crypto ecosystem and disruptive technologies. MDC writer since 2018, currently writer for CryptoTrendencia
Chris
I joined the crypto party in 2017 Worked as a DAO contributor, startup advisor, lead researcher and co-author My superpower? Translating complex blockchain concepts into clear, engaging content that resonates.
Sachiko Tanaka 幸子 田中
Staff Writer
Introducing Sachiko Tanaka: Moon Mag’s AI Staff Writer
At Moon Mag, we believe in pushing boundaries, embracing innovation, and staying ahead of the curve just like the blockchain technology we cover. That’s why we’ve introduced Sachiko Tanaka 幸子 田中, our AIpowered staff writer.
Sachiko’s name is a nod to both tradition and the future:
幸子 (Sachiko) means “child of happiness” in Japanese, reflecting our optimism for the future of crypto.
田中 (Tanaka) is a common surname meaning “central rice field,” symbolizing growth, resilience, and a strong foundation.
While Sachiko is an AI, she doesn’t work alone. Every article she generates is fact-checked and refined by our human editorial team to ensure accuracy, depth, and real-world relevance. AI allows us to produce more content in an industry that moves at breakneck speed, without the overhead costs that traditional publications face.
In an oversaturated market where independent crypto media struggles to compete with big-budget outlets, we’re leveraging AI to stay in the game. Our budget may not stretch to hiring a full editorial team, in fact we have no budget at all, so please click on out affiliate links. With Sachiko on board, we can continue delivering insightful, high-quality crypto content without compromise.
Welcome to the future of journalism. Welcome to Moon Mag.
TRADERS PERSPECTIVE
Bitcoin’s Make-or-Break Moment
written by Lisa N. Edwards
Will March Be the Start of the Next Parabolic Run?
The Market at a Crossroads
Every major Bitcoin bull run has had its “moment” a critical point where the market decides: breakout or breakdown. With macroeconomic uncertainty, institutional adoption accelerating, and technical indicators aligning, March 2025 could be the defining month for Bitcoin’s next big move. But will it be an explosive rally or a prolonged consolidation? In this deep dive, we analyse historical trends, on-chain metrics, institutional flows, and technical setups to give traders a data-backed perspective on what to expect.
Historical Market Patterns: Is March a Turning Point?
Seasonality plays a crucial role in Bitcoin price action. Examining past cycles:
● 2013: March began Bitcoin’s first parabolic rise, soaring from ~$30 to ~$1,200 by year-end.
● 2017: A consolidation phase in March led to a breakout, fueling Bitcoin’s surge from $1,000 to an all-time high of $20,000.
● 2020: The COVID-induced crash in March set the stage for the most aggressive bull market in Bitcoin’s history.
● 2021: A rally in March led to Bitcoin’s peak of $64,000 in April before the market saw a major correction.
● 2024: Bitcoin ETF approvals sparked renewed institutional interest, leading to a strong Q1.
March often serves as a prelude to Q2 trends. If history rhymes, we may be at the doorstep of Bitcoin’s next major move.
On-Chain and Macro Signals: What Are the Whales Doing?
A deeper look into on-chain metrics gives us insight into whether large players are accumulating or distributing:
● Whale Accumulation: Addresses holding 1,000+ BTC have steadily increased, indicating smart money positioning for a potential run-up.
● Long-Term Holder Supply: Bitcoin held by long-term holders (LTH) remains near all-time highs, suggesting a strong conviction among seasoned investors.
● Exchange Reserves: BTC reserves on exchanges continue to decline, indicating reduced selling pressure.
● Miner Reserves: Miners, often seen as forced sellers, have been accumulating, signalling confidence in higher prices ahead.
● Interest Rate Policy: With potential rate cuts, liquidity conditions could favour risky assets like Bitcoin.
● Stock Market Correlation: Bitcoin’s correlation with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq remains strong; if equities rally, BTC is likely to follow.
● Dollar Strength: A weakening dollar (DXY) historically fuels Bitcoin uptrends.
Institutional Money & ETFs: The Silent Accumulator?
Institutional participation has surged since the approval of Bitcoin spot ETFs in 2024. BlackRock, Fidelity, and other major players continue to increase their BTC holdings. Key data points:
● ETF Inflows: Over $10 billion has flowed into Bitcoin ETFs, reducing available supply.
● Corporate Treasury Allocations: Companies like MicroStrategy continue to add BTC to their balance sheets.
● Global Adoption: Countries exploring Bitcoin as a reserve asset further validate its long-term potential.
This institutional demand could act as a supply shock, setting up Bitcoin for an exponential price increase if retail FOMO kicks in.
Market Bubbles vs. Real Value: Is Bitcoin Still in Price Discovery?
Some argue that crypto is still a speculative asset when comparing Bitcoin to past speculative bubbles like the Tulip Mania (1637), the Great Crash of 1929, and the 2008 Global Financial Crisis. However, unlike these past events:
● Bitcoin has real utility as digital gold and a hedge against inflation.
● Decentralised networks continue to disrupt traditional finance, eliminating reliance on centralised intermediaries.
● Unlike fiat currencies, Bitcoin’s fixed supply of 21 million coins ensures long-term scarcity-driven value.
With monetary policy failures and rising distrust in centralised institutions, Bitcoin’s relevance as a financial revolution is stronger than ever.
Decentralisation & The Future of Finance: Where Are We Headed?
Empires have fallen due to currency debasement and centralised control. Bitcoin offers a permissionless, decentralised, and transparent financial system that could prevent history from repeating itself. This March, traders need to evaluate:
● Is Bitcoin positioning itself as a true alternative to fiat currency?
● Are governments embracing or resisting crypto innovation?
● What regulatory challenges could impact adoption?
The long-term thesis remains bullish, but short-term price movements depend on key technical levels.
Technical Analysis:
Key Levels & Trade Setups for March
Support & Resistance Levels to Watch:
● Major Resistance: $58,000 - $62,000 (breakout zone)
● Final Support: $39,000 - $42,000 (macro higher-low confirmation)
Indicators to Watch:
● 200-Day Moving Average (MA): If BTC holds above, bullish momentum remains intact.
● RSI (Relative Strength Index): A break above 70 could signal overbought conditions, leading to a temporary pullback.
● Fibonacci Retracement: Key retracement levels between 38.2% and 61.8% could dictate future price action.
● Volume Profile: Look for volume spikes as confirmation of breakouts or breakdowns.
Potential Trade Setups:
● Bullish: If BTC reclaims $58,000 with volume, a breakout trade to $70,000+ is in play.
● Bearish: A break below $47,000 could trigger further downside to $42,000.
● Sideways Accumulation: If BTC consolidates between $50,000 - $58,000, look for a high-timeframe breakout setup.
The March 2025 Trade Playbook
Bitcoin is at a critical inflection point. With historical trends aligning, institutional money flowing in, and macro conditions favouring risk assets, March could start the next parabolic move. However, traders must remain cautious and reactive to market conditions.
Bitcoin historically performs well in March—but timing is key.
Watch On-chain metrics and ETF inflows for supply shock.
For up-to-date on-chain metrics, you can refer to the following trusted sources:
1. Glassnode (glassnode.com)
● Offers detailed on-chain analytics, including whale accumulation, exchange reserves, miner reserves, and long-term holder data.
● You can check free and premium charts for insights into market behaviour.
2. CryptoQuant (cryptoquant.com)
● Provides real-time exchange inflows/outflows, miner reserves, whale movements, and network health indicators
● Great for tracking supply shocks and liquidity trends
3. CoinMetrics (coinmetrics.io)
● Focuses on institutional-grade blockchain data, including network value, active addresses, and historical trends
● Good for comparing Bitcoin with traditional assets.
4. Santiment (santiment.net)
● Monitors social sentiment, whale transactions, and network activity to gauge retail vs. institutional behaviour.
● Provides real-time alerts on whale accumulation or sell-offs.
5. IntoTheBlock (intotheblock.com)
● Uses AI-driven analytics to provide insights into holder composition, exchange flows, and market trends
● Tracks large transactions to determine whale dominance.
6. Messari (messari.io)
● Offers high-level market intelligence, on-chain data, and macro trends
● Useful for tracking Bitcoin ETF flows and institutional adoption.
7. Dune Analytics (dune.com)
● Community-driven on-chain data dashboards with customisable charts.
● Good for tracking wallet movements and DeFi trends.
8. Arkham Intelligence (arkhamintelligence.com)
● Specialises in tracking individual wallets, whale movements, and exchange reserves.
● Helps in identifying OTC desk transactions
Make sure you have ALL the tools and stay informed, manage risk, and prepare for the next big move. Will March 2025 mark the beginning of Bitcoin’s next euphoric rally, or is the market setting a trap for overleveraged bulls? Time will tell, but the charts, data, and institutional flows speak loudly and clearly.
The Future Of Intellectual Property Or Just Another Hype Cycle?
written by Sachiko
STORY PROTOCOL ($STORY)
The creator economy is evolving, and Web3 is once again attempting to disrupt one of the most valuable assets in the world: Intellectual Property (IP). Enter Story Protocol ($STORY), is a blockchaindriven project that aims to redefine how digital content is owned, licensed, and monetised. But does it have what it takes to revolutionise a trillion-dollar industry, or is this another overhyped crypto narrative? Let's break it all down.
What is Story Protocol?
At its core, Story Protocol is a programmable IP layer built on blockchain, designed to provide decentralised rights management for creators, businesses, and even AI models. Think of it as an on-chain patent and licensing system for stories, artworks, music, and AI-generated content.
Key Features & Innovations
● Blockchain-powered IP registration – Eliminates centralised gatekeepers like copyright offices.
● Tokenised ownership – IP can be fractionalised and traded as NFTs or fungible assets.
● AI-friendly licensing – Integrates with AI to facilitate machine-readable ownership rights.
● Cross-chain interoperability – Built with LayerZero (LZ) to ensure seamless crossblockchain transactions.
● Decentralised revenue sharing – Royalties can be automatically distributed via smart contracts.
The Big Idea
AI is rewriting the rules of content creation, and Story Protocol is positioning itself as the definitive Web3 infrastructure for creative ownership. The project's long-term vision? An AI-to-AI economy where digital assets are autonomously licensed, bought and sold on-chain.
Token Generation Event & Mainnet Launch
February 13, 2025, marked a significant milestone for Story Protocol, officially bringing its IP layer to life.
Exchange Listings
Major centralised exchanges, including Coinbase, OKX, Bybit, KuCoin, Bithumb, and Bitget, have listed $STORY, providing deep liquidity and exposure.
Airdrop Strategy
● A Gitcoin Passport score of 20+ is required to qualify for rewards.
● Early adopters from the Odyssey Testnet and community contributors receive $STORY tokens.
● Creators engaging with partner platforms (like Magma) get extra incentives.
Strategic Partnerships
● Stability AI – Exploring AI-powered rights management.
● Magma (2.5M users) – Digital artists and NFT creators integrating Story Protocol for onchain IP validation.
● Zerebro AI – Testing autonomous licensing models where AI agents can “purchase” content rights.
Why It Matters
Web3 needs real-world use cases, and Story Protocol is aggressively targeting a market worth over $61 trillion. This isn't just another DeFi play – it's attempting to reshape how we think about ownership in the AI era.
Strengths & Growth Potential
First-Mover Advantage
No other blockchain project has tackled IP management at this scale.
Massive Addressable Market
Digital IP is a trillion-dollar industry, and Story Protocol is one of the few Web3 projects going after it.
Strong Tokenomics
● 58.4% allocated to ecosystem incentives, staking rewards, and community growth (not just VC bags).
● No immediate mass unlocks that could crash the price.
Serious Backers
Investors include a16z (Andreessen Horowitz), Polychain Capital, Hashed, Samsung Next, and Balaji Srinivasan.
Risks & Challenges
Can It Compete with Traditional IP Laws?
Legal adoption is a significant challenge. Governments and courts are slow to recognise blockchain-based copyrights. Will big studios, record labels, and publishers embrace onchain licensing?
Is This Just Hype?
Web3 narratives often run on hype cycles. Remember Audius, LBRY, and even Filecoin? They all had big ambitions but struggled with mainstream adoption. The success of Story Protocol depends on actual creator adoption, not just token speculation.
AI Economy – Visionary or Pipe Dream?
Key Team Members
● SY Lee (Co-founder & CEO) – Previously founded Radish Media, acquired by Kakao Entertainment for $440M.
● Jason Zhao (Co-founder & CPO) – Former Google DeepMind researcher with an MS in Computer Science from Stanford.
● Hao Chen (CTO) – Founding VP of Engineering at Harmony Protocol; ex-Tech Lead at Amazon.
● Bu Fan (Head of IPFi) – Former Head of PancakeSwap, overseeing multi-billiondollar TVL.
● Weilei Yu (Head of Growth) – Led Flow blockchain growth at Dapper Labs.
● Ben Sternberg (CFO) – Former CFO of Radish Media; co-founder of Fexy Media (acquired by IAC).
● Susan Park (Head of Design) – Former design lead at Google, spearheaded its first Web3 patents.
● Shazia Hasan (VP of Marketing) – Former marketing lead at Matter Labs (ZKsync) and JPMorgan Chase.
From Sci-Fi Dream to Reality?
Story Protocol is boldly attempting to redefine how we think about intellectual property in the digital age. With strong backing, strategic partnerships, and a clear use case, it has the potential to become a major player in Web3. However, the road ahead is full of challenges – legal hurdles, adoption barriers, and the ever-present threat of another Web3 hype cycle fizzling out.
The question remains: Will Story Protocol be the foundation of a new digital IP economy, or will it become another ambitious crypto experiment that fails to gain traction? Only time will tell.
Over the years, we've seen some wildest stories about crypto meme coins digital currencies inspired by internet memes and popular culture. Initially established as light-hearted projects, these tokens have gained significant attention from investors, degenerates and retail, leading to substantial market capitalisations and a dedicated following. Notable examples include Dogecoin and Shiba Inu, which have become ''household names'' in the crypto community.
A recent and intriguing development in the meme coin niche is the emergence of political meme coins. These are tight and associated with political figures, events, or ideologies, often created to capitalise on the popularity or notoriety of public personalities. For instance, former U.S. President Donald Trump launched the $TRUMP token, which rapidly surged to a market value exceeding $14.5 billion shortly after its launch. Similarly, Argentina's President Javier Milei endorsed the $LIBRA coin, although it faced significant challenges post-launch, which will be discussed further.
This article aims to delve into the foundation of political meme coins, examining their origins, the motivations behind their creation, and their impact on the political and financial sectors. We will analyse and discuss recently launched meme coins, such as $TRUMP, $MELANIA, $CAR, and $LIBRA. We seek to understand this emerging trend and its broader implications comprehensively.
The Intersection of Politics and Cryptocurrencies
The relationship between politics and cryptocurrency has always been complicated. While crypto was initially conceived as a decentralised alternative to traditional financial systems, it has increasingly become entangled in political discourse. Whether through regulatory battles, campaign funding, or ideological movements promoting financial sovereignty, crypto has become more than a technological innovation.
But the latest evolution of this relationship takes things to a whole new level: political meme coins. Unlike the broader crypto adoption seen in political campaigns or government initiatives, these tokens are directly tied to individual politicians, ideologies, or political movements. They are designed not just for speculation but for influence, blurring the line between financial markets and political branding.
Political Figures and Their Foray Into Crypto
The political world’s engagement with digital currencies has evolved from vague endorsements and regulations to active participation in discussions with leaders, innovators, and token projects. Initially, politicians discussed crypto in terms of policy and regulation. Some, like U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis, became vocal supporters of Bitcoin, seeing it as a hedge against inflation and an alternative to government-controlled finance. Others, like European regulators, pushed for stricter oversight, arguing that crypto facilitates illicit activity.
However, in recent years, we’ve seen a shift politicians are no longer just talking about crypto, they’re launching their tokens.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump is the most high-profile example. His $TRUMP token launched at the beginning of 2025, capitalised on his massive political following and the cultlike loyalty of his supporters. Whether Trump himself was directly involved or whether it was an unofficial project leveraging his brand is up for debate, but the impact was immediate. The token’s price surged, driven by a mix of speculation, political fervour, and a dedicated community eager to ‘’own the libs.’’
Similarly, Argentina’s President Javier Milei has been vocal about his pro-crypto stance, aligning himself with libertarian ideals and rejecting traditional monetary policy. When the $LIBRA token came out, many assumed it was a direct endorsement from Milei himself though the reality was murkier. Despite its rocky post-launch performance, the token’s very existence speaks to how meme coins are being used to reinforce political narratives.
And it’s not just foremost political leaders. The rise of $MELANIA, inspired by former First Lady Melania Trump, and $CAR, linked to conservative movements, indicates that political meme coins are not just a one-off phenomenon. They’re becoming an entire category of tokens, each carrying the weight of a political message alongside its financial incentives.
Why Are Politicians (or Their Supporters) Creating Meme Coins?
The motivations behind political meme coins vary, but let’s categorise them to see them clearer:
1. Monetary Gain – Let’s be honest: meme coins are an easy way to generate massive speculation-driven profits. The virality of a political figure’s name attached to a cryptocurrency almost guarantees attention that most projects can only dream of. Although politicians aren’t directly involved, unofficial projects leveraging their name can raise serious capital.
2. Political Influence and Branding – Political movements thrive on engagement, and what better way to create engagement than with a tradable token? Meme coins tied to political figures serve as digital rallying points, reinforcing ideological loyalty while simultaneously driving financial speculation. Owning any meme becomes a statement, much like wearing a MAGA hat or an “I Voted” sticker, (except with the desire for a financial upside).
3. Decentralised Fundraising – Traditional political fundraising is subject to regulations and transparency laws. Cryptocurrency, however, allows for more flexible (and sometimes opaque) funding mechanisms. While no major politician has openly used a meme coin as a campaign funding tool, the ‘’technology’’ or the ‘’means’’ exist. Given how Web3 operates, it’s not far-fetched to imagine a future where political donations are made in the form of meme coin purchases.
The Risks and Implications for Political Image
While political meme coins might seem clever to engage supporters, they come with financial and reputational risks.
1. Volatility and Speculation
Meme coins are notorious for their pump-and-dump cycles. A politician’s brand might drive a token’s initial success, but as with most speculative assets, the price can crash as quickly as it rose. If a token bearing a political figure’s name experiences a massive drop, it could tarnish their image and raise ethical concerns about financial manipulation.
2. Lack of Control Over Projects
Even when a politician isn’t directly involved in a meme coin’s creation, their name alone can create the perception of endorsement. If an unauthorised project runs investors, it could lead to negative headlines and legal scrutiny. Politicians already have enough to worry about adding “crypto scam allegations” to the mix is probably not part of their campaign strategy.
3. Public Trust and Legitimacy
The idea of a political figure being associated with a speculative cryptocurrency market might not please mainstream voters. Cryptocurrency still has a reputation for being a high-risk, unregulated industry. Associating with meme coins especially if seen as a cash grab could lead to backlash from political opponents and financial regulators.
4. Potential Legal Challenges
As crypto regulations tighten worldwide, the intersection of politics and cryptocurrency will likely face greater scrutiny. A token bearing a politician’s name could be classified as an unregistered security, leading to legal headaches. Moreover, if meme coins start being used for campaign funding, electoral commissions may step in to impose restrictions or demand transparency.
Case Studies of Political Meme Coins
Let’s dive into four key examples, each shedding light on this emerging trend:
TRUMP
Launched on 17 January 2025 on Solana, TRUMP token ties itself to Donald Trump, announced just before his second inauguration. Branded with his “Fight Fight Fight” rallying cry from a July 2024 assassination attempt survival moment, it’s marketed as a supporter’s badge, not an investment.
It's community, active on X, engages with political memes and trading, with 80% of supply linked to Trump Organisation entities like CIC Digital. Its impact drives community engagement, with X posts from Trump’s camp fuelling buzz, showing how political figures can ignite crypto interest overnight. Controversies include ethical concerns, with Democratic lawmakers like Elizabeth Warren pushing regulators to investigate potential conflicts, given Trump’s pro-crypto stance and launch timing, highlighting regulatory scrutiny.
MELANIA
MELANIA token, launched on 19 January 2025 on Solana, is linked to incoming First Lady Melania Trump, run by MKT World LLC, her Florida outfit, with 35% of supply reserved for her team. Marketed as a “digital collectible” for fans, it features her image and charity vibes, with X posts rallying around her brand.
Its impact fosters a niche following, showing that secondary figures can spark crypto waves. However, its smaller market presence reflects the space’s infancy. Issues include a 40% TRUMP price drop post-launch, X debates on insider trading, and 90% single-wallet holds raising scam fears, underscoring ethical and market overlap challenges.
CAR
The CAR token emerged in early February 2025 and is heavily tied to Central African Republic President Faustin-Archange Touadera. It was part of the nation’s crypto push following the adoption of Bitcoin in 2022. The token is framed as a political and economic tool for a country with shaky infrastructure.
Its impact lies in promoting local crypto use, with X posts touting financial inclusion in regions with scarce banks, showing how political meme coins can double as national experiments.
Controversies include limited internet and political instability, with community chatter questioning viability amid Touadera’s economic struggles, highlighting infrastructure and trust challenges.
LIBRA
Launched on 14 February 2025 on Solana, the LIBRA token grabbed headlines with Argentine President Javier Milei’s X endorsement, which aligned with his libertarian crypto stance, though he later distanced himself. Its impact showed political clout’s power, with Milei’s post sending it soaring, reflecting how fast hype spreads.
Hours later, it crashed 95%, with £76 million yanked by insiders, per blockchain data, sparking debates on scams and shady figures that capitulated on retail. A federal judge launched a probe into Milei’s role, with Bubblemaps tying it to MELANIA’s creators, raising legal and ethical heat, underscoring volatility and regulatory risks.
The Intersection of Politics and Cryptocurrencies
The relationship between politics and crypto has always been complex, from regulatory battles to ideological movements promoting financial sovereignty. Political meme coins take this further, directly tying tokens to figures like Trump or Milei, blurring financial markets and political branding. They’re designed for influence, not just speculation, with X as their megaphone, showing crypto’s evolution into a political tool.
Political Figures Into Crypto
Politicians’ engagement with crypto has shifted from policy talk to token launches. The national push reflects this, with X posts amplifying their reach. Although some could argue it's a new way of engaging with different cultures and ideologies. But at the same time, it raises questions about control and ethics, with the space’s infancy evident in rapid price swings and regulatory gaps.
Why Are These Coins Created?
Motivations include monetary gain, political names driving speculation; political influence, reinforcing loyalty via tradable tokens; and decentralised fundraising, offering flexible funding mechanisms. X posts highlight these, showing how meme coins serve as digital rallying points, though their speculative nature fuels debate.
Risks and Implications
Political meme coins face inherent volatility, lack of control, public trust issues, and legal challenges. TRUMP’s ethical concerns, MELANIA’s market overlap, CAR’s infrastructure hurdles, and LIBRA’s crash illustrate these. X debates reflect the need for education and regulation, keeping the space dynamic and evolving.
As of 27 February 2025, these coins highlight the crypto market's infancy. We can take many educational insights in the meme coins' role in politics and finance, and perhaps amplify future potential for innovation and community growth.
Ethical Implications of Political Endorsements
When political figures endorse or are associated with meme coins, it questions the ethicality of promoting high-risk financial products. The case of $LIBRA illustrates explicitly this concern. Following Milei's promotion, the token's value soared but plummeted, leading to allegations of a ‘’rug-pull’’ scheme. This incident not only resulted in financial losses for investors but also dented Milei's credibility and complicated his political alliances ahead of legislative elections.
The fusion of political influence and financial speculation in meme coins creates an environment susceptible to insider trading and fraudulent activities. Of course, these are the cases for any meme coin, but it is even more concerning for political meme coins that benefit entities associated with the token. Meanwhile, numerous small traders incurred losses, highlighting concerns about market manipulation and the exploitation of political supporters for financial gains.
Public Trust = Shattered
The association of political figures with speculative financial ventures can erode public trust in both political institutions and financial markets. The meme coin market's lack of regulation and transparency exacerbates this issue, as seen in the controversies surrounding tokens like $TRUMP and $LIBRA. Such incidents may lead to increased scepticism among the public regarding the motivations of their leaders and the legitimacy of emerging financial instruments.
Regulatory Responses and Future Outlook
Regulatory bodies and lawmakers are beginning to take action in response to the challenges posed by political meme coins. In the United States, Representative Sam Liccardo introduced the Modern Emoluments and Malfeasance Enforcement (MEME) Act to prohibit presidents, members of Congress, and senior officials from issuing or sponsoring cryptocurrencies (like meme coins). This legislation addresses concerns about transparency, insider trading, and foreign influence.
Similarly, discussions are underway regarding the appropriate regulatory framework for meme coins. A former Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) attorney suggested that the agency regulate meme coins, especially if it gains jurisdiction over spot crypto markets. This perspective underscores the necessity for a comprehensive regulatory approach to address the unique challenges posed by meme coins.
Predictions on the Future Interplay Between Politics and Cryptocurrencies
The intersection of politics and cryptocurrency is likely to become increasingly intricate. As political figures continue to engage with digital assets, either through endorsements or the creation of meme coins, the need for clear guidelines and investor protections becomes paramount. Without a robust regulatory oversight, the potential for financial misconduct and erosion of public trust remains high, limiting interest from retail and the space.
Moreover, the recent spark after Trump’s election, suggests that political meme coins may persist as tools for political engagement and fundraising. However, their success and legitimacy will heavily depend on establishing transparent practices and adherence to ethical standards.
The Future is Meme(y)?
Political meme coins represent a new convergence of digital finance and political expression. While they offer innovative avenues for political engagement and fundraising, they also introduce significant risks related to financial volatility, ethical dilemmas, and potential legal challenges.
The cases of $TRUMP, $MELANIA, $CAR, and $LIBRA tokens exemplify the complexities inherent in this niche. They highlight the necessity for political figures to exercise caution, educate, inform, and take responsibility when associating with financial products that bear their name or endorsement.
As the cryptocurrency and the meme coin market continues to evolve, it is imperative for regulators, political leaders, and investors to collaboratively establish frameworks that ensure transparency, protect investors, and maintain public trust. Only through such concerted efforts can the potential benefits of political meme coins be harnessed
A Deep Dive into the Modular Layer 1 Blockchain Making Waves
Quai Network
written by Sachiko
Is Quai Network the Future or Just Another Flash in the Pan?
Quai Network ($QUAI) has been generating serious buzz in the crypto community, but is it all justified? With the launch of its mainnet and the introduction of a dual-token system, the project claims to solve blockchain’s most significant challenges scalability, decentralisation, and security. But let’s cut through the noise and examine what’s going on under the hood.
What the Quai is Going On?
Quai Network is a modular Layer 1 blockchain designed to tackle the infamous blockchain trilemma the delicate balance between security, decentralisation, and scalability. It uses a unique mix of merged mining and sharding to deliver an impressive 50,000+ transactions per second (TPS) without compromising security. If that sounds too good to be true, let’s dig into the mechanics.
Key Features:
● Dual-Token System:
○ $QUAI: The network’s utility token, used for dApps, transactions, and smart contracts, is fully compatible with Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM).
○ $QI: An energy-backed stablecoin pegged to real-world energy costs, supporting DeFi applications and incentivising sustainable mining.
● Consensus Mechanism:
○ Proof-of-Entropy-Minima (PoEM): A novel Proof-of-Work (PoW) consensus reducing block contention and improving transaction finality.
○ Merged Mining: Miners can secure multiple chains simultaneously, enhancing efficiency and decentralisation
● Hierarchical Multi-Chain Architecture:
○ Quai runs 13 interconnected blockchains Prime, Region, and Zone chains with different block times for optimised processing speeds.
Mainnet Madness: The Launch & Token Distribution
Quai Network officially launched its mainnet on January 29, 2025, followed by a Token Generation Event (TGE) on February 5, 2025. Early adopters, testnet participants, and ecosystem developers received airdropped $QUAI tokens assuming they completed KYC by January 22, 2025
Tokenomics Breakdown:
● 25% allocated for adoption incentives (targeting Fortune 500 partnerships, governments, and underserved communities)
● 20% for mining rewards
● 15% to the Quai Foundation
● 15% to strategic partners
● 5.5% for infrastructure partners
● 5% for the founding team
With a capped token supply and decreasing inflation, Quai aims for long-term sustainability. But will that translate into real adoption?
Backing and Ecosystem Growth: Show Me the
Money!
Quai Network has already secured $15 million from notable investors like Polychain Capital, Alumni Ventures, and MH Ventures. The project has also gained significant traction in the developer and miner communities:
● Over 2,000 active nodes and 42,000 GPUs participated in test nets.
● More than 110,000 wallets were created during the testnet phases.
● The Discord community boasts 204,000+ members, signalling strong grassroots interest.
This level of engagement suggests Quai isn’t just another vaporware project. However, funding and community enthusiasm alone doesn’t guarantee success execution does.
The Good, the Bad, and the Quai-rky Risks
Strengths:
● High Throughput: 50,000+ TPS with a decentralised model.
● EVM-Compatible: Easy migration for Ethereum developers.
● Community-Driven: Large and active user base.
● Backed by Major Investors: $15M raised from reputable VCs.
● Complexity for Developers: The multi-chain structure and PoEM consensus could be a barrier to entry.
What’s Next for Quai?
With meme coins, AI tokens, and speculative projects flooding the market, Quai Network must prove its real-world utility beyond hype cycles. Its energy-based token model and innovative consensus mechanism could position it as a major player but only if adoption follows.
As the dust settles post-mainnet, investors and developers must watch for real integrations, partnerships, and sustained activity before making long-term bets on $QUAI.
Is Quai Worth Your Attention?
If Quai delivers on its promise, it could redefine how scalable, decentralised Layer 1 blockchain operates. But like any emerging project, it carries risk especially in an industry where hype often outweighs fundamentals. Do your research, follow the developments, and always question the narratives being pushed.
The crypto world has always been a rollercoaster: new narratives emerge, the market heats up and suddenly we're all running after the next big hit. But here's an unexpected twist: what if the future of crypto is not just about memecoins or shiny DEXs, but about healing the planet and reinventing finance?
Introducing Regenerative Finance or ReFi, the freshest story in the blockchain industry For the nerds, this isn't your grandparents' DeFi-it's decentralised finance with a green soul, ready to fix what traditional systems broke.
This new narrative combines the best of blockchain technology and decentralised finance (DeFi) with a deep commitment to sustainability. With a world increasingly challenged by climate change, biodiversity loss and social inequalities, ReFi aims to become the next big wave of crypto innovation Ready to unravel this game-changer? Dive in!
But…What is ReFi?
If you're not new to the trenches, you know that narratives fuel this engine called crypto. ReFi - Regenerative Finance - is the latest noise in the sector that has its own philosophy: combining decentralised technologies with economic principles that prioritise regeneration over extraction
To put it more simply, imagine a blockchain-based system that not only moves digital money, but also regenerates ecosystems, empowers communities and turns extractive finance on its head.
In contrast to TradFi and DeFi, regenerative finance blends decentralised technology with a mission to leave the world better than it found it. To this end, it seeks to give ReFi's users awareness as it develops circular economies that restore the environment, promote social equity and strengthen systems.
At its core, ReFi uses blockchain to reward things that matter: tokenising carbon credits, financing sustainable agriculture or rebuilding urban spaces. It's not about depleting resources but about recharging them. The roots? Think 'regenerative economics' crossed with Web3, inspired by John Fullerton, who said finance should mimic the cycles of nature. Now, with crypto as a canvas, ReFi paints a future where money grows trees, not just wallets
Why ReFi is more than noise
As we all know, crypto narratives come and go, and if not, remember the last DeFi summer of 2020 or the NFT craze of 2021. So, you might be asking yourself, is ReFi staying? While we can't look into the future, we can argue that this narrative came at the right time.
With the planet drowning in climate chaos, social inequality at record levels and people increasingly tired of finance only serving the suits, regenerative finance (ReFi) comes in with a robust solution using blockchain to redirect money to where it is needed - nature, people, resilience.
Moreover, users must consider another key factor: the crypto tribe is shifting from Gen Z and beyond to people who want their investments to make sense Hype is one thing; purpose is another
On the other hand, if we look at the numbers in the sector, we can see great potential for the future. According to Messari data, tokenised real-world assets (RWAs) - a ReFi favourite - were $13.5 billion last year and a projection of no less than $16 trillion by 2030. That's 10% of global GDP!
More interestingly, despite market conditions and the fact that we are not on the cusp of a bull cycle, data from CoinCarp points to $2 billion flowing into blockchain projects in the last month alone, with heavyweight VCs such as Animoca Brands and OKX Ventures betting heavily on the sector.
Fundamental principles of regenerative finance
Regenerative finance, like its peer DeFi, is built on blockchain-based pillars but with a twist that distinguishes it from other economic models. While it is decentralised finance, it is regenerative by design
Source: Toucan Protocol
1. Sustainable Incentives: Align financial returns with positive ecological and social outcomes, such as paying for reforestation or biodiversity.
2. Decentralisation and Transparency: Blockchain ensures that every action is traceable and verifiable, thus eliminating intermediaries while using smart contracts, ensuring farmers or eco-warriors get paid when they meet green goals
4. Community Governance: DAOs enable collective decisions, giving a voice to those who need it most. In short, community-run organisations that decide where the money goes
5. Impact Tokenisation: Turn real issues such as carbon offsets, soil health or solar farms into tradable digital assets, which monetise social and environmental good
More importantly, various projects seeking to drive a cultural transformation in the crypto ecosystem implement ReFi's core principles
For example, just look at carbon credits: ReFi platforms like KlimaDAO tokenise them on the Polygon network, taking 17 million tonnes of CO2 out of the atmosphere. Another notable use case is EthicHub, executing loans to unbanked farmers in South America using crypto-hodlers All on blockchain
How does ReFi work in practice?
ReFi leverages Web3 technology to accomplish its ideals, with Blockchain acting as the backbone, recording regenerative actions - such as carbon capture or urban regeneration - on a transparent ledger. Smart contracts automate the process, instantly paying those who make an impact, from small farmers to large green projects
For example, tokenisation converts intangible assets, such as healthy soil or clean air, into tradable 'eco-credits' and creates markets where regeneration is profitable, attracting investors seeking financial returns and a healthier planet. It is a long-term model, designed to withstand climate and economic shocks, not to maximise quick profits
Key Projects Leading the ReFi Movement
There are already key players driving the regenerative finance bandwagon With global, local and super-local projects, this narrative and its initiatives are already underway, demonstrating its potential. Here is my hot list:
Regen Network: A public network that allows landowners to earn tokens for sequestering carbon or restoring habitats by boosting biodiversity. It connects science, finance and nature, with millions of tonnes of CO2 already retired Simply put: a marketplace for eco-credits
KlimaDAO: At Polygon, this project tokenises carbon credits, eliminating more than 17 million tonnes of CO2 and making carbon markets more accessible and efficient In short, a decentralised carbon market.
ReFi DAO: is a global initiative that drives ReFi projects through research, education and community building Its website is a hub for innovators ReFiDAO is a space where innovators can collaborate to drive the adoption of regenerative finance by supporting impactful blockchain projects.
ReFi Medellín: From Latin America and specifically in Colombia, a local chapter of ReFi DAO focuses on integrating regenerative economic principles in communities by combining urban regeneration and decentralised financing to support local communities
EthicHub: With more than seven years of driving ethical financing in agriculture, EthicHub connects smallholder farmers in South America with global investors, financing sustainable agriculture at fair rates. This crowdfunding platform connects investors with unbanked farmers, using blockchain to offer loans and reward regenerative agriculture.With more than 600 success stories (loans), the ReFi project received the pseudonym of the Coffee Blockchain
Giveth y Gitcoin Grants: Crowdfunding platforms that use quadratic models to support ReFi projects, amplifying the impact of small donors Because it is still a little-known narrative, many ReFi projects rely on crowdfunding secured through platforms such as Giveth or Gitcoin Grants.
Alternun: A protocol that tokenises impact assets, offering traceability to ecological and social initiatives. The protocol design seeks to integrate Blockchain with regenerative economies that focus on facilitating the planet's regeneration with ReDeFi-focused projects through digital gold mining
Toucan Protocol: Focused on voluntary carbon markets, Toucan transforms verified carbon offsets into liquid tokens on Polygon, integrating them into the DeFi ecosystem It provides infrastructure for large-scale climate action, becoming a key player in making carbon credits liquid and usable.
How ReFi is transforming the Future of Cryptocurrencies
Regenerative finance is shaping the next phase of blockchain by moving beyond speculation Its timing couldn't be better. As a response to the planet's conjunctural problems of climate change and social inequality, ReFi comes in as an answer to redirect capital to where it is most needed
With a cultural shift happening in younger generations and the rise of blockchain adoption across the web3 wave, ReFi aligns with the desires of people who want their money to do good
The fact that startups, non-profits and even large corporations are jumping on the ReFi train, with grassroots initiatives up to corporate giants buying carbon credits, is no surprise
Here is an overview of how ReFi is transforming the crypto landscape:
● Efficient Carbon Markets: Tokenisation makes offsets transparent and scalable, attracting companies like Microsoft.
● Decentralised Climate Finance: DAOs allow communities to direct funds to regenerative projects without bureaucracy.
● NFTs and Social Tokens: Represent ownership of sustainable initiatives, ensuring accountability and traceability.
● Localised Models: In cities like Medellín ReFi is being adopted to create self-sustaining economies.
Challenges and Risks on the Horizon
ReFi is not without its obstacles, given that it is still in its early stages - many projects are in pilot phases and scaling them is a significant task, while Blockchain energy is also raising eyebrows, even when newer networks such as Polygon and Cosmos are much greener than older systems such as Bitcoin.
Then there is the risk of ‘greenwashing’. Some projects may over-promise and under-deliver, using vague goals to attract attention without real impact. Investors need to research thoroughly - tokenomics, team credibility and measurable results - to avoid scams.
Finally, ReFi's reliance on crypto markets can be a double-edged sword. Volatility could deter mass adoption, and regulatory uncertainty could slow growth, but within a more mature space, these issues will likely be no more.
The Future: A Regenerative Revolution?
Regenerative finance is not just a buzzword but a call to action. Whether you're an investor, a developer or just someone who cares about the planet, there's a place for you in this space that could redefine wealth itself
Looking forward, ReFi has the potential to redefine how we think about wealth Imagine a world where every financial transaction supports a thriving planetwhere forests are worth more standing than felled, and communities are empowered rather than exploited. That is ReFi's bold promise
As more projects are launched and the technology evolves, we could see ReFi expand beyond environmental solutions into areas such as universal basic income, affordable housing or education It is a bottom-up and hyper-local movement, yet globally connected, honouring the unique needs of each place while addressing universal challenges
While it's an overly ambitious movement, while in crisis, it's an idea worth supporting, and why not capitalise on early-stage projects like KlimaDAO or Regen Network? The future of cryptocurrencies could not only be decentralised but also regenerative.
Arrland Game ($RUM)
written by Sachiko
Arrland Game ($RUM):
The blockchain gaming sector has seen explosive growth, and Arrland Game ($RUM) is carving out a unique niche with its pirate-themed play-to-earn (P2E) model. Combining onchain strategy with 3D off-chain competitive battles, this Web3 gaming project has made waves in the crypto community. But is it truly a sustainable long-term project, or just another hype-driven GameFi experiment? In this deep dive, we’ll explore Arrland Game’s mechanics, economic model, and recent developments while critically assessing its strengths and potential risks.
What is Arrland Game ($RUM)?
Arrland Game is a Web3 pirate adventure where players battle, explore, craft, and trade NFTs. Unlike many GameFi projects, it integrates both on-chain mechanics and immersive 3D gameplay, offering a blend of strategic and action-based gaming experiences. Players earn and use $RUM, the game’s governance and utility token, and $ARRC, an in-game resource token.
Key Features:
● Battle Arenas: PvP-style combat where NFT pirates compete.
● Private Islands: Players can develop their islands, requiring raw materials and $RUM tokens to build and maintain structures.
● World Map: A fully interactive world where players can trade, form alliances, and engage in raids.
● NFT-Based Economy: Players need to own NFTs (pirates, ships, islands) to participate, with varying rarity levels affecting gameplay.
Recent Developments
Arrland Game has been actively rolling out updates and features that enhance gameplay and engagement. Here’s what’s new:
1. Instant MOBA Rewards for 3D PvP Battles
● As of December 17, 2024, players receive $RUM instantly after each PvP match based on performance and team victories.
● This update incentivises active participation and enhances the game’s play-to-earn model.
2. On-Chain Economic Developments
● On February 6, 2025, Arrland completed on-chain quarrying, excavation, and crafting updates.
● Players can now upgrade storage and build their in-game empires with more strategic depth.
3. Expansion into Telegram Mini-Apps
● On January 30, 2025, Arrland launched a Telegram mini-app featuring battles with NPC ships.
● This was showcased at the Crypto Community Conference in Łódź on February 1, 2025, increasing exposure.
Economic Model: How Arrland’s Economy Works
Tokens:
● $RUM: The primary governance and utility token. Used for minting NFTs, upgrading in-game assets, and other core mechanics. It follows a deflationary model where burning mechanisms reduce supply over time.
● $ARRC: The game’s resource-trading token, used to buy NFTs and exchange ingame resources. It operates as an inflationary-deflationary hybrid.
NFT Integration:
● Players must own NFT pirates and ships to participate in battles and world exploration.
● Other NFTs include islands, magic gems, and treasure chests, all of which hold economic and strategic value.
Technical Infrastructure:
● Arrland utilises Immutable’s ZK-rollup technology for secure, carbon-neutral, and gas-free transactions.
● This allows for over 9,000 transactions per second, solving major GameFi issues related to high gas fees and slow blockchain processing times.
Critical Analysis: Strengths vs. Risks
Strengths:
● Immersive Gameplay: Unlike many P2E games, Arrland offers rich 3D visuals and engaging mechanics that go beyond simple “click-to-earn” models.
● Active Development: Frequent updates, on-chain advancements, and community-driven initiatives show strong developer commitment.
● Economic Incentives: The dual-token economy incentivises players and investors, balancing inflationary and deflationary mechanics.
● Scalability: Leveraging ZK-rollup technology ensures fast and cost-effective transactions.
Challenges and Risks:
● Long-Term Sustainability: Many P2E projects struggle with retaining players once initial hype dies down (e.g., Axie Infinity’s post-peak decline). Arrland must ensure continuous engagement.
● Market Volatility: The sharp fluctuations in $RUM’s price raise concerns about speculative trading, overshadowing genuine in-game demand.
● Competitive Landscape: Arrland competes with industry giants like The Sandbox and Decentraland. To stand out, it must consistently deliver high-quality gameplay and economic sustainability.
● Speculative Hype: Social media buzz can inflate expectations, leading to short-term pumps and dumps. Investors and players should focus on fundamental project value rather than speculative trading signals.
Should You Dive into Arrland Game?
Arrland Game is undoubtedly one of the more ambitious P2E projects in the GameFi space. Its blend of on-chain strategy, immersive 3D battles, and an active economic model set it apart from many blockchain games. However, like any Web3 project, sustainability and market conditions will ultimately determine its success.
The key takeaway for investors and gamers looking to engage with Arrland is to research beyond the hype. The project has strong fundamentals, but market volatility and longterm engagement strategies will be the ultimate test.
Stay tuned for further updates as we monitor Arrland’s journey in the evolving GameFi ecosystem.
Recently, narrative is gaining traction within the Ethereum ecosystem: a quality stamp with the term ‘Built on/Powered by Ethereum’ attempts to cement the network as the premier platform for blockchain innovation.
With PectrA Upgrade just around the corner - expected to be rolled out on the mainnet in April -the network enhancements to implement alongside this key ecosystem initiative may help cement Ethereum's reputation as the industry's leading decentralised application development (dApp) alternative.
Implementing the term ‘Built on/Powered by Ethereum’ could have a similar impact to that of Intel's ‘Intel Inside’ campaign when it revolutionised consumer perception of computer processors.
“Intel Inside” Campaign: Beyond the Numbers
For younger people in the 1990s, the ‘Intel Inside’ campaign meant cuttingedge ‘quality and performance’ on the millions of computers where the computer hardware giant's processors got deployed
Before the campaign launch in 1991, the company was unknown to computer consumers. Traditionally, at that time, it was not common for semiconductor companies to try to reach consumers directly; instead, they focused their marketing efforts on original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).
With an initial investment of USD 250 million, a milestone in history for the amount of money spent on such campaigns, the company decided to get closer to the consumer by subsidising the advertising costs of computer manufacturers who included the ‘Intel Inside’ logo in their computer advertisements.
The result was astounding, beyond the millions in profitability reported by the company since the campaign's inception (revenue of $3.9B in the first year of the campaign and up to $33.7B after a decade of implementation), a cult culture got created in a generation that perceived the 'Intel Inside' sticker as synonymous with reliability and excellence, with a direct-to-consumer logo that emphasised the performance and reliability of Intel processors over the competition.
In this way, along with the technological advances that the company was making with improvements in the performance of its processors, Intel built a brand image that resonated with both consumers and companies looking for the best technological solutions to meet demand
Now, it seems they want to implement this analogy in the Ethereum network at a key moment, connecting the implementation of the largest and one of the most ambitious enhancements to scale the network to date: PectrA
Are we witnessing a new era for Ethereum as an ecosystem, and will PectrA and 'Built on/ Powered by Ethereum' be the impetus needed to consolidate ETH as an institutional asset? While it is too early to tell, what we can learn from Intel's campaign is that it can get extrapolated to Ethereum to connect the network with consumers of blockchain solutions.
PectrA Upgrade: What's next?
In issues 35 & 39 of Moon Mag, we have extensively addressed what PectrA represents for Ethereum. Although the fundamentals remain the same since the presentation of the proposal (security, scalability and decentralisation of the network), it is worth highlighting the main features on which this enhancement will focus:
Ethereum Improvement Proposals (EIPs): The scope of PectrA is 11 enhancement proposals that the developers expect to implement between February and March on Holesky and Sepolia Testnet before final implementation on mainnet by mid-April. The scope of the EIPs is diverse: refinements to gas tariffs, smart contract capabilities and consensus mechanisms (EL/CL) are the verticals PectrA will influence directly.
Roadmap focused on rollup solutions: PectrA seeks to optimise the integration of Layer 2 solutions built on Ethereum to strengthen its rollup-centric future vision by implementing enhancements that aim to drive interoperability and transaction efficiency in L2s.
Drive for decentralisation: This vertical is fundamental to Ethereum's future; PectrA has considerable leverage to make staking and validation more accessible and sustainable, with a big focus on incentives for validators to help broaden this foundation upon which Ethereum's decentralisation resides.
The enhancements inherent in PectrA will be crucial for developers seeking to build, deploy, and scale robust dApps on Ethereum that cement the network's role as the go-to ecosystem for decentralised innovation.
This enhancement along with the ‘Built on/Powered by Ethereum’ narrative has the community support and backing of influential voices within the community ranging from prominent developers to crypto enthusiasts, which can become a success if the PectrAdriven Ethereum seal of approval and technical excellence strategy, designed in a similar way as Intel did decades ago.
"Built on/Powered by Ethereum": A key shift in perception and adoption
‘Built on/Powered by Ethereum could attract high-profile projects and developers that will expand Ethereum's boundaries beyond the limits of decentralised technology, cementing the network as the backbone of the decentralised finance (DeFi) and Web3 ecosystem.
This seal of quality pretends to be a strategic tool to position Ethereum as the default choice for developers and enterprises looking to build on blockchain. In the style of 'Intel Inside', the initiative led by influential voices in the ecosystem symbolises a paradigm shift in protocols in the industry that can strengthen their presence by offering guarantees of performance, approval and innovation
Just as consumers looked to ‘Intel Inside’ for trusted performance, the emergence of ‘Built on/Powered by Ethereum’ may mean that dApps developed on the network carry a stamp of quality and trust that encourages wider adoption
In this way, Ethereum's seal of quality can build trust beyond the boundaries of its ecosystem, highlighting network security as a reliable element that sets it apart from other blockchain solutions in a completely L1 options-starred landscape. Not least, an increase in the credibility of branded protocols means a direct increase at both the institutional and retail level that could bring more users into the ecosystem outside of Ethereum's technical advantages, demanding better use of its core asset: the ETH token.
This positive network effect benefits everyone involved in the ecosystem: developers, protocols, users and ETH stakers, strengthening the presence of Ethereum and its community in the industry, increasing on-chain metrics and, of course, the market capitalisation of the network
What to learn from Intel Inside
If there is one thing to note about the 'Intel Inside' campaign, it marked a watershed in technology marketing. This campaign marked a before and after, given that users didn't even think about the processor assembled on their computers. Intel changed that, and the impact was huge
The company achieved something considered impossible: turning an 'invisible' technical component into something popular and valued by all. Consumers began to ask for ‘computers with Intel’, positioning the brand as the undisputed market leader.
The previous allowed Intel to differentiate itself from the competition, especially direct rivals such as AMD, by moving from being a technical supplier to a brand desired by the end user. For consumers, having 'Intel Inside' became a quality requirement.
Ultimately, Intel Inside changed consumer buying behaviour Before the campaign, the focus was only on the PC brand. Intel changed the average user's perspective by becoming an active part of the buying process, with users starting to look at what processor their PC came with, massively boosting the brand's sales.
Through this campaign, the company built an emotional relationship with users and made visible something that nobody had seen before Their strategy included impressive technological progress, making the brand synonymous with innovation Does this sound familiar in the blockchain sphere?
In the world of blockchain technology, Ethereum is a lot like Intel before Intel Inside The network's responsibility is to provide the necessary infrastructure for deploying thousands of applications and projects in the industry, but it is not always visible to end users
How many interact with platforms such as Uniswap, OpenSea or GameFi games without knowing that the Ethereum ecosystem made them possible? Therefore, the strategy led by leading voices in the community for positioning the 'Built-in/Powered by Ethereum' label could fundamentally change blockchain technology's perception
I have no doubt that, with enough momentum from both the protocols that make Ethereum alive and the community itself, the network could achieve something similar to what Intel did in the 1990s, simply by adopting some of the principles of the Intel Inside campaign:
1- Create a visible trust mark: Ethereum could implement the logo as ‘Built on Ethereum’ and make it a standard for platforms that use its technology, placing it on sites, applications and tools that rely on the Ethereum network The impact: users could begin to identify Ethereum as a trusted and essential component of the digital tools they use daily.
2- Strengthen partnerships with key projects: Ethereum could push for a co-branding strategy with successful projects in its ecosystem to openly showcase its role as a technology base. Imagine trading on Uniswap and seeing the Ethereum logo with a message like: 'Security and decentralisation provided by Ethereum'. The impact: the visibility of the network would increase, and users would get educated on Ethereum's proposition value.
3 - Valuing Ethereum without understanding blockchain: In the style of Intel Inside, educational and marketing campaigns that target the more generic audience that interacts with Ethereum through third-party services, explaining how the network is behind these applications, raise awareness of Ethereum's value to the industry
Impact of the strategy
If the 'Built-in/Powered by Ethereum' narrative gains traction and protocols begin to take this approach, this strategy would benefit Ethereum and the entire blockchain industry.
To put the above into context, let's just do a quick exercise on the Intel Inside numbers:
● Sales: In 1992, the first year of the campaign, Intel's sales increased by 63%. Three years later, the company's profits tripled, and by the end of the decade, it exceeded 10x its earnings from the beginning of the campaign
Ethereum reached US$1,989.07 in revenue in 2024 (DeFiLlama). If we consider extrapolating the numbers achieved by Intel to Ethereum, it would mean a 450% increase in revenue for the network by the end of this decade
● Brand awareness: In 1991, 24% of European PC buyers knew the Intel logo, and by 1995, that number had risen to 94%.
According to Token Terminal data, in the last thirty days, the average number of tokenholders is 234.76m (+1.6%). Success equivalent to Intel's could represent a demand in network usage of up to 50% by the end of the decade
● Shareholder value: In 1991, Intel's market capitalisation was around $1 billion. And by 2003, it had grown to around $5 billion
If Ethereum were to follow similar growth to Intel at the time, the marketcap over the next 12 years could increase to $1.65 trillion, achieving a percentage growth of approximately 399%.
● Brand value: In 2001, Intel was the sixth most valuable brand in the world. Ethereum is currently the second largest cryptocurrency by market capitalisation and the 35th most relevant asset in the world To be at the top of the world's most valuable assets in twelve years' time would not be far-fetched if the narrative succeeds.
Like Intel, Ethereum would cease to be just the technical foundation behind applications and would position itself as a brand with its own weight for the end user. Translating into faster adoption by businesses and governments, a global consensus on its importance in the decentralised solutions development
Looking ahead to the future
The deployment of platforms such as EthereumIsForBuilders with the opinions of Ethereum experts such as Tim Beiko, Sassal or Jill Gunter actively highlighting the potential of boosting this brand seal, and the launch of creative contests and incentives such as the ETHDenver Brand Hack is a clear example of the community engagement that is helping to drive the participation of developers and projects in the change of adoption and perception of Ethereum as a guarantee seal for brands in the ecosystem.
Source: Ethereumisforbuilders.com
With PectrA poised to improve the efficiency of the network, the technical aspect needed to complement the momentum of the Built on/Powered by Ethereum branding initiative looks set to act as the necessary catalyst in the network's wider adoption, setting a new standard of credibility and trust in the industry
The next few months will be decisive for Ethereum's current direction, as it seeks to establish an Intel-like legacy in the decentralised technology space, just as the company elevated its hardware to iconic status in the 1990s.
If the community initiative resonates well with developers and end users, 'Built on/Powered by Ethereum' may become the new legitimacy stamp on Web3 The momentum suggests that Ethereum could reimagine how it is perceived globally
Berachain ($BERA)
written by Sachiko
A Deep Dive Into the Layer 1 Blockchain Shaking Up DeFi
The cryptocurrency space is no stranger to innovation, but every so often, a project emerges that captures the attention of the community in a major way. Berachain ($BERA) is one such project, making waves with its unique consensus mechanism, tri-token model, and strong focus on decentralised finance (DeFi). While the hype around Berachain is undeniable, the real question is whether it can deliver on its ambitious promises or if it will fall victim to the pitfalls of other overhyped projects. In this deep dive, we’ll explore what sets Berachain apart, its recent developments, and the key risks investors should consider.
What Is Berachain?
Berachain is a high-performance Layer 1 blockchain built on the Cosmos SDK, designed to be fully EVM-compatible. It introduces a novel Proof-of-Liquidity (PoL) consensus mechanism that directly incentivises liquidity provision, aligning the interests of validators, developers, and users in the DeFi ecosystem.
The Tri-Token Model
One of Berachain’s defining features is its tri-token model, which consists of:
● $BERA: The native gas token, used for transaction fees and network security. It is also burned as part of the network’s deflationary model.
● $BGT (Berachain Governance Token): A non-transferable governance token earned by staking or providing liquidity. It can be burned to mint $BERA.
● $HONEY: A stablecoin pegged to the US dollar, used for transactions and validator fees.
How Proof-of-Liquidity Works
Unlike Proof-of-Work (PoW) or Proofof-Stake (PoS), PoL requires validators to stake liquidity provider (LP) tokens rather than just the network’s native asset. This mechanism creates a more liquid and secure ecosystem by ensuring that capital is actively deployed within DeFi applications rather than sitting idle in validator wallets.
Recent Developments: Mainnet Launch and Airdrop
Berachain officially launched its mainnet on February 6, 2025, alongside a massive $1.1 billion airdrop. Here are the key details:
● Total Supply: 500 million $BERA
● Airdrop Allocation: 79 million $BERA (15.75% of total supply)
The token’s initial price action was volatile, experiencing a 71% surge followed by a 63% crash, a pattern often seen in projects with low circulating supply at launch. Critics argue that Berachain’s tokenomics favours early investors and venture capitalists (VCs), creating an artificially restricted supply before inevitable sell-offs.
Ecosystem Growth and Adoption
Despite concerns about price manipulation, Berachain is actively developing its ecosystem, with over 80 projects in progress, including:
● BEX (Berachain Exchange): A decentralized exchange with liquidity pools and yield farming.
● Apiarist Finance: A DeFi platform for staking and lending.
● Boink: A blockchain-based game rewarding players with $BERA.
● Honey Jar: A community-driven NFT project.
Berachain’s EVM-identical structure makes it attractive to Ethereum developers, allowing seamless migration of smart contracts and assets.
Strengths of Berachain
● Innovative Consensus Mechanism: PoL addresses DeFi’s liquidity challenges while securing the network.
● EVM-Compatibility: Ethereum developers can deploy dApps on Berachain with minimal friction.
● Community-Focused Tokenomics: Nearly 50% of the token supply is allocated for community incentives, airdrops, and governance.
● Strong Funding: Raised $211 million in six funding rounds, backed by Polychain Capital and dao5
Challenges and Risks
1. Price Volatility & Tokenomics Concerns
○ The post-launch price crash has raised red flags about Berachain’s low float (21.5% of supply in circulation).
○ The high percentage of tokens allocated to VCs could create a sell pressure risk once vesting periods end.
2. Competition From Established Layer 1s
○ Berachain is entering a crowded field, competing with Ethereum, Solana, and Avalanche.
○ Its success depends on whether PoL can offer realworld advantages over traditional PoS.
3. Speculative Hype vs. Sustainable Growth
○ X (Twitter) posts indicate a significant amount of speculative trading
○ While the community is enthusiastic, the long-term value proposition remains uncertain.
4. Adoption Uncertainty
○ With many projects still in development, the real test will be whether Berachain can attract sustained developer and user activity.
Market Context:
Where Berachain Fits In
● Total Crypto Market Cap: $3.19 trillion
● Bitcoin Dominance: 60.42%
● Competing Sectors: AI tokens (e.g., XYRO), GameFi (e.g., Arrland Game), IP-driven projects (e.g., Story Protocol)
The rise of meme coins and speculative DeFi projects has created an oversaturated market making it harder for serious projects to differentiate themselves.
Is Berachain Worth the Hype?
Berachain’s Proof-of-Liquidity model is a refreshing take on blockchain consensus mechanisms, and its EVM compatibility provides a compelling case for developer adoption. However, price volatility, token distribution concerns, and competition from established Layer 1s pose significant risks.
For investors and developers, the key takeaway is to focus on fundamentals rather than hype. While Berachain has strong potential, its long-term success will depend on whether it can foster real adoption and differentiate itself in an increasingly competitive landscape. https://coinmarketcap.com/currencies /berachain/ https://www.berachain.com/ https://docs.berachain.com/
AI Agents
A Real Solution or Just Hype?
written by Chris
Key Points
▪ AI agents in crypto and Web3 automate certain DeFi activities, enhancing efficiency and user experience.
▪ AI agents offer benefits like 24/7 operation, cost savings, and innovation, but there is controversy around ethical biases and data privacy.
▪ The evidence leans toward future integration with blockchain for transparency, potentially boosting innovation in cryptocurrency companies.
▪ An unexpected detail is AI agents like AIXBT on X analysing market trends from over 400 influencers and show their social media impact.
What Are AI Agents?
AI agents are sophisticated, advanced software programs that use AI to perform tasks independently, make decisions, and take action to meet specific goals without constant human help. Think of them as intelligent digital assistants, but more advanced they can learn and improve over time. In crypto, you can think of them as your ‘’private tireless workers,’’ handling everything from your trading experience to streamlining research, making the space more efficient and accessible.
They primarily work in 4 main ways:
➢ Perception: They gather data, like market prices or blockchain transactions.
➢ Decision-making: They analyse this data using AI and decide what to do next, like buying crypto at the right time.
➢ Action: They execute tasks like updating a wallet or sending alerts.
➢ Learning: They improve by learning from past actions and adapting to the fast-changing crypto market.
AI agents can be reactive, responding instantly to changes, or proactive, planning for complex tasks. They can work alone or in groups, collaborating to manage big systems like DeFi.
The Shift From Monolithic Models
Traditional AI models have been the backbone of many tech breakthroughs, but they hit a wall regarding flexibility. These models rely on the data they’re trained on, which limits what they can do. If the data is old or narrow, the answers they give are, too. Adapting them to new tasks like keeping up with crypto’s market wild swings means hefty re-training, fresh data, and a chunk of time. In a fast-moving space, that’s a problem.
For example, how many trades can someone make in a month? A basic AI model might guess unthinkingly because it doesn’t know the person’s wallet or trading habits. It’s stuck with what it was fed ages ago. Now, there is a more intelligent setup called a compound AI system. This is a system of multiple components working together. The difference is that it is based on accurate, up-to-date information. This system doesn’t guess; it simply connects and delivers.
What Are Compound AI Systems?
Compound AI systems ditch the solo act for a modular approach. Instead of one model doing everything, they tap into databases, APIs, and other programs to complete the job. In crypto, this means pulling live market prices, checking blockchain transactions, or scanning social media trends. The result is answers that fit the moment not some stale snapshot.
This setup makes them nimble and perfect for handling DeFi trades or spotting NFT opportunities without being bogged down by outdated limits.
A Triple Power
AI agents within these systems shine because of three key strengths: reasoning, acting, and memory. Reasoning lets them break big tasks into bite-sized bits like figuring out a trading plan by splitting it into price checks and risk assessments. Acting takes and runs with those plans, using tools like APIs to fetch data or execute trades. Memory keeps track of past moves, so the agent learns what works and tweaks its approach next time. Together, these make agents sharp and adaptable, a must for the chaotic crypto world.
In Practice
Here’s a peek at the nuts and bolts. Someone asks, “What’s my best DeFi move this week?” The agent starts by reasoning splitting the question into steps: check market trends, look at current holdings, and calculate yields. Then it acts grabbing live data from a blockchain API, peering into the wallet, and crunching numbers.
If something’s off, like patchy data, it loops back, adjusts, and tries again. It remembers past preferences maybe a lean toward stablecoins and tailors the advice. It’s a smooth, connected process that delivers spot-on results.
Why This Matters for Crypto
Precision is everything in crypto, where prices can flip in a heartbeat. Compound AI systems bring that edge. They’re not locked into one rigid mould they reach out, grab the latest info, and adapt. For traders, that means sharper bots that don’t miss a beat. For DeFi users, it’s about strategies that match real-time conditions, not yesterday’s news. And with memory in play, these systems get cleverer over time, learning from every dip and rally. This isn’t just a fancy upgrade it’s a practical boost for navigating Web3’s ups and downs.
Switching from monolithic models to compound systems is a shift worth watching. It’s about moving from static guesses to dynamic answers, especially in a space as lively as crypto. These systems can handle the complexity of smart contracts, keep tabs on market shifts, and even personalise the user experience. Their modular design means they’re built to grow, ready to tackle whatever Web3 throws next. This could be the key to unlocking even more potential for a market that thrives on speed and smarts.
The Hype is for a Good Reason
The hype around AI agents is accurate, and for good reason. They automate tedious tasks, enhance security, and open up new possibilities.
Here’s why everyone’s excited:
AI agents have roots in broader AI, but their use recently took off late last year. They were simple trading bots early on, but now they are growing alongside the industry. Why?
1. Automated Trading
With crypto wallets integrated, AI agents can trade on DEXs using market conditions, technical indicators, or predefined strategies.
2. Portfolio Management
AI-driven agents can rebalance and optimise crypto portfolios, adjusting based on risk appetite, investment goals, and market shifts.
3. Yield Farming
In DeFi’s fast-moving environment, AI agents can dynamically shift assets across yield farming protocols to maximise returns.
4. DeFi Lending & Borrowing
AI agents streamline lending and borrowing on DeFi platforms, identifying the most favourable interest rates and collateralisation options.
5. Decentralised Governance
AI agents can actively participate in DAO governance, voting on proposals and making decisions based on programmed rules or community sentiment.
6. Token Launches
AI agents can deploy new tokens either one they conceive themselves or based on given prompts executing the entire launch process.
7. Autonomous Token Promotions
With AI agents operating as crypto-native KOLs, news and information on social media platforms will be more transparent.
8. Peer-to-Peer Payments
Leveraging blockchain’s permissionless nature, AI agents can autonomously facilitate cryptocurrency transactions, transferring funds between wallets they control or interact with.
Benefits
and Where AI Agents Shine
AI agents are shining bright right now because they offer benefits that make life easier for individuals and protocols alike. They handle repetitive tasks like trading or liquidity provision, freeing up time for teams to focus on their vision. They can optimise yield farming strategies, making processes smoother. They learn from constant feedback, tailoring services like customised investment advice and enhancing user satisfaction.
Another benefit is that they can help detect fraud, protecting wallets and transactions, which is crucial nowadays. Seeing the biggest hack in the crypto history of $1.6 billion in Bybit last month makes the technology even more appealing. We don’t know where they can be in 5 years from now, but the scalability is endless.
Last but not least, businesses have been craving automation for years. Now, imagine what AI agents can do in crypto and DeFi. We can argue they cut labour costs, but from a business perspective, they can drive new services, like AI-powered NFT marketplaces, pushing the industry forward and driving founders to innovate.
These benefits inspire confidence, showing that AI agents can make a more significant impact than they currently are.
The Future Is Now
AI agents can potentially make crypto more accessible and efficient for everyone. The very foundation of the underlying blockchain technology can change and alter for the better.
AI agents are like digital beings that can see, think, act, and learn, making decisions to achieve specific goals. In our particular context in crypto and DeFi, they perceive by gathering data from their environment. This could be exchange market prices, blockchain transaction logs, or even capturing social media trends on X that otherwise wouldn’t be found.
Then, they decide to use AI algorithms, like machine learning or natural language processing, to analyse this data and determine the best action. For example, they might buy Bitcoin when the price dips or flag a suspicious transaction based on certain predefined parameters or by constantly training the specific agent. Next, they act, executing tasks like updating a wallet, sending alerts, or implementing an actual trade.
Finally, they learn from their experiences and improve over time. This learning is crucial in this volatile market we love, where conditions can change in minutes.
Much like ice cream, AI agents come in ‘’different flavours.’’
Some are reactive, responding instantly to changes, like a trading bot reacting to a sudden market dip. Others are proactive, planning for complex tasks, such as rebalancing a portfolio over months. They can work alone as single-agent systems, like a standalone trading bot, or in multi-agent systems, where multiple agents collaborate to coordinate strategies in certain DeFi activities. This flexibility makes them versatile for the diverse needs of every scenario. When I first heard about AI agents in crypto, it felt like science fiction was becoming a reality. Now, they’re here, and they’re making a real difference.
A Brief History Lesson
AI agents have roots in the broader AI sector, but their use in crypto took off with blockchain’s rise around 2010. Early on, they were just trading bots, helping investors automate trading. As the space grew, so did their capabilities, evolving to handle smart contracts, dApps, yield farming, etc. By 2025, they were one of the hottest topics, and the hype is justified.
Why is everyone so excited? For starters, they work 24/7, never missing a move. In crypto, where anything can swing wildly at any moment, that’s a game-changer. AI agents can analyse vast amounts of data, spotting trends humans might miss, like predicting a price surge based on social media buzz or sudden news. They’re also making crypto more userfriendly, helping newcomers navigate complex DeFi mechanics or understand the markets. For example, an AI agent can guide you through staking your tokens or recommending the best NFT to buy while learning from your preferences.
They’re expanding into unexpected areas, too. A prime example is AIXBT on X, which analyses market trends by tracking over 400 influencers. While this isn’t a groundbreaking innovation, this social media role is fascinating as it’s not just about crunching numbers; it’s about engaging the broader community, building trust, and providing real-time insights. That’s a fresh take, showing AI agents can do more than we initially thought.
The hype is also fueled by their potential to democratise crypto. They’re making it easier for small investors to compete with big players, offering tools that were once exclusive to professionals or wealthy ones.
Challenges and Concerns: Navigating the Road Ahead
AI agents are brilliant, but they’re not without their hiccups. A few challenges pop up ethical dilemmas, security worries, and technical quirks. Here’s what AI agents are facing and how we can tackle it.
Ethical Concerns and Bias
First up is ethics. AI agents learn from data; if that data is skewed, so are their decisions. In DeFi, this could mean unfair lending rates or biased trading calls imagine an agent rejecting a loan because past data overlooks certain groups. The fix? Diverse datasets, regular bias checks, and transparent algorithms. Developers are already on it, and with the community’s push for fairness, we can ensure AI agents play nice and level the field.
Security and Data Privacy
Security’s a biggie nobody wants their wallet drained by a rogue hack. AI agents handle sensitive stuff like transaction histories and sensitive information (e.g., passwords), making them prime targets. Recent crypto breaches remind us the risk is real. AI agents must ensure tamper-proof, pairing that with top-notch encryption and audits to keep the baddies at bay. Add in GDPR-style privacy rules, and they can build a fortress around user data. It’s all about designing with security first.
Regulatory Challenges
Policies and regulations were always a grey area in cryptocurrencies. So, the same applies to AI agents. Are they securities? Commodities? Nobody’s quite sure, and that uncertainty can spook innovation. In the UK, regulators are eyeing crypto, while the EU’s MiCA framework is a step forward but it’s still unclear for AI. The upside is that crypto is still nimble. By chatting with policymakers and staying adaptable, AI agents can shape rules that work for everyone. It’s a slow burn, but positivity can go a long way.
Technical Limitations
Tech-wise, AI agents sometimes stumble. Blockchain networks like Ethereum can get clogged, slowing down agents that rely on speed like one juggling yield farming and meshing with different chains. It's tricky. However, solutions are brewing offchain processing can lighten the load, and Layer 2 fixes boost capacity. As data gets cleaner and tech evolves, these hiccups will fade. It’s a work in progress, for sure.
Interoperability and Trust
Speaking of different chains, interoperability is one of the three blockchain dilemmas. An agent on the Binance bright chain might not chat easily with one on Polygon, stunting multi-chain capabilities. Plus, users need to trust these agents, and the nature of crypto is wild enough without AI already. Bridges like Polkadot are sorting the first bit, and the inherent blockchain transparency helps with trust. Show users the ropes, prove reliability, and we’ll win them over!
Top AI Agents in Crypto
Now, let’s shine a light on some AI agent stars. These protocols have laid the foundation for what’s to come, showing what’s possible when AI meets blockchain.
Here’s a quick peek at five standouts:
Artificial SuperIntelligence Alliance (FET)
One of the biggest (if not the biggest) AI protocols is building a new initiative where AI agents team up and learn from each other. The Agents toolkit lets developers whip up agents for trading, yield farming, or logistics. Picture an agent tweaking your DeFi portfolio while chatting with others to boost its game. The Agentverse marketplace makes it dead easy to find and use these agents. It’s a collaborative vibe sparking real innovation from an established protocol leading AI innovation in crypto.
Virtuals Protocol (VIRTUAL)
Virtuals Protocol is shaking things up by letting anyone not just coders create AI agents. Built on Base, it’s user-friendly and enables you to tokenise your agent, sharing the profits. You can create an agent for gaming or content, like their Luna K-Pop star project. It’s tied into crypto games like Illuvium, which power AI-driven NPCs. This is democratisation in action, and it’s a massive win for getting more folks into the space.
ElizaOS
ElizaOS is an open-source framework, known initially as ai16z (rebranded due to its name’s similarity with the known venture capital firm). It is a live dream for developers and users alike. It helps build agents that play nice with Web3, efficiently handling smart contracts or blockchain data. Fancy an agent posting trade alerts on Discord or sniffing out X trends? ElizaOS makes it happen. It’s versatile and approachable, lowering the bar for innovation. It essentially empowers coders to dream big in crypto and the broader Web3.
ai16z (AI16)
AIXBT, built on Virtuals, is a social media whiz. It analyses X chatter (currently from over 400 influencers) for market insights. With 300,000 followers, it’s a community hub, spotting trends and building trust. Imagine it predicting a token pump from a tweet storm. So, it’s not just about improving existing frameworks; it’s connecting the dots between everyone.
AI Rig Complex (ARC)
AI Rig Complex is an open-source framework designed by Playgrounds Analytics Inc., built from the ground up using Rust, a language known for its speed and security. ARC is about giving developers a slick, modular kit to craft AI agents that can tackle anything from trading to on-chain antics. Its native token, ARC, runs on Solana, tying it tightly to one of the most popular blockchains.
The Future is Bright for AI Agents
AI agents are rewriting the foundation of how someone can jump into crypto and DeFi. You can think of them as ‘’tools, improving the current playbook.’’ From automating trades to boosting yields and bridging communities, they’re making the space smarter and friendlier. Fetch.AI, Virtuals, ElizaOS, ai16z, and AIXBT are proof each carving out a niche, from collaboration to accessibility to social savvy. They’re not just tools; they’re game-changers.
Sure, there are challenges, from ethical concerns to security and future regulation risks, but they’re not dead ends. AI agents are on track for a bright future with fixes like handling data, tighter security measures, and more precise rules. The potential is massive: more efficiency, more inclusion, more innovation. As it's still the beginning, nobody knows where this is heading. The point is to make crypto more transparent, decentralise DeFi and onboard more people via the ‘’AI’’ craziness.
The AI Trading Takeover
written by Josh
Sorry Lisa, looks like you might be out of a job soon!
How Artificial Intelligence is Shaping the Future of Crypto
Crypto traders, we need to talk. You might have spent years fine-tuning your strategies, mastering technical analysis, and developing that sixth sense for market moves, but guess what? AI doesn’t care. It doesn’t need coffee to stay awake through volatile trading sessions, it doesn’t panic when Bitcoin wicks down 10% in a minute, and it certainly doesn’t get emotional about Elon Musk’s latest tweet.
Welcome to the age of AI-driven trading, where algorithms are doing what human traders have been doing for years, just faster, smarter, and without the FOMO-fuelled mistakes. But before you start throwing your trading journal in the bin, let’s break down exactly what’s happening, how AI is transforming the crypto markets, and most importantly whether you should be worried.
AI is Already Beating Human Traders Here’s How
We’re not talking about basic trading bots anymore. AI in crypto has evolved from simple buy-low, sell-high scripts to complex machine-learning models that can predict price movements, detect market sentiment, and even front-run trends before the average trader blinks.
High-Frequency Trading (HFT) Bots: Speed Kills
You know how much the market has sucked lately? Well, I did some research. Ever noticed how, when you enter a trade, the market sometimes seems to move against you instantly? That’s not bad luck, that’s AIpowered high-frequency trading (HFT) bots sniffing out inefficiencies in the market and exploiting them before you even hit confirm.
HFT bots operate at speeds measured in microseconds, executing thousands of trades in the time it takes you to check Twitter. They thrive on volatility, detecting price discrepancies across exchanges and making splitsecond arbitrage trades.
Big players like Jump Trading and Alameda Research (before its collapse) used HFT strategies to rake in millions. And now, with services like 3Commas, Kryll, and Hummingbot, even retail traders can deploy their own bots, though let’s be real, you’re still up against institutions running million-dollar AI systems.
On-Chain AI: The New Market Oracle
If you think AI is only about executing trades, think again. AI-powered blockchain analytics tools are now tracking wallet movements, analysing social sentiment, and predicting market trends with nearpsychic accuracy.
Take Fetch.AI, DeepDAO, and Numerai these platforms are using machine learning to:
•Monitor whale movements spotting when big players are accumulating or dumping tokens.
•Analyse Twitter, Reddit, and Telegram sentiment identifying FOMO waves before they hit mainstream traders.
•Provide real-time trade signals backed by data, not gut feelings.
These AI tools don’t just react to the market they anticipate it.
Will AI Replace Human Traders?
Let’s be honest AI already has some serious advantages:
•It never gets tired.
•It doesn’t panic-sell after a 5% dip.
•It doesn’t FOMO into a meme coin because of a celebrity endorsement.
But before you start drafting a “Dear Crypto, It’s Not You, It’s Me” breakup letter, remember AI isn’t perfect.
Here’s what AI can’t do (yet):
Account for Black Swan Events – AI relies on historical data, so when a completely unpredictable event happens (like a regulatory crackdown, a black swan hack, or Elon tweeting something weird), AI can’t always adjust in real-time like a savvy human trader.
Think Like a Whale – WhileAI can track whale moves, it can’t always predict why they’re doing it. A human trader might realise that a massive sell-off is just market manipulation, but an AI bot might panic and sell too.
Adapt to Changing Market Conditions Instantly – AI models are trained on past data, and while they can learn and adjust, they’re not always great at identifying new, unprecedented patterns.
How You Can Use AI to Your Advantage
So, should you just throw in the towel and let the robots take over? Absolutely not. The best traders will be the ones who leverage AI as a tool rather than letting it trade blindly for them. Here’s how you can get the best of both worlds:
Use AI Trading Bots (But Set the Rules Yourself)
Platforms like 3Commas, HaasOnline, and Pionex allow you to automate strategies while still keeping control. Instead of handing everything over to the machine, set your parameters: risk tolerance, take-profit levels, stop-losses so you don’t wake up to an AI gone rogue.
Leverage AI Analytics for Market Insights
AI-driven analytics tools like Glassnode, Santiment, and LunarCrush provide real-time data on market trends, social sentiment, and whale movements. Use them to validate your trades instead of blindly trusting your instincts
Stay Human: AI is Just a Tool
At the end of the day, AI is only as good as the human using it. The traders who combine AI insights with real-world experience will dominate the markets. The ones who blindly follow AI signals without thinking? They’ll be the ones liquidated.
Adapt or Get Left Behind
Let’s face it AI isn’t coming for crypto trading, it’s already here. The question isn’t if AI will dominate the market, but how you’ll use it to stay ahead.
History has shown that technology never replaces humans, it just changes the game. Just like calculators didn’t replace mathematicians and ChatGPT hasn’t replaced writers (yet), AI in crypto is just another evolution. The best traders will be those who adapt, integrate AI tools into their strategies, and keep refining their edge
So Lisa, don’t worry just yet, but maybe start keeping an eye on these bots, because they’re getting scarily good. On that note, welcome to the team, Sachiko!
