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The entire cryptocurrency market is currently experiencing growth and attracting increasing attention. It's a vast and fragmented space, with an ever-growing number of apps making significant strides toward mass adoption, while memecoins continue to make waves.

Binance Research recently released its Monthly Market Insights for October, offering a detailed analysis of the current trends. Although October has passed, these trends show no signs of slowing down, and the market seems to be moving past the uncertainty surrounding elections.

Binance Research is the research division of Binance, the leading cryptocurrency exchange in the world. You can read the full report [here](https://www.binance.com/en/research/analysis/monthly-market-insights-2024-11). Let's take a look at some of its findings that might interest you the most.

### State of the Market

October 2024 marked a 2.8% growth in the cryptocurrency market’s total capitalization, reflecting its resilience to external pressures. Bitcoin (BTC) ended the month near its previous all-time high, driven by approximately $5.4 billion in spot ETF investments. 

Market confidence was also boosted by September’s U.S. labor statistics, which revealed job growth and declining unemployment. Additionally, as the U.S. presidential election approached on November 5, optimism about possible regulatory reforms drove positive momentum, which extended into bullish trends following the election.

Let's take a closer look at BTC, ETH, and, due to continuously rising memecoin activity, SOL:

- Bitcoin (BTC) rose 7.4%, driven by $5.5 billion in ETF inflows and renewed interest from traditional finance. BTC approached its previous all-time highs, surpassing $73,000, as institutional demand grew. Positive sentiment around the U.S. presidential election and corporate moves, like MicroStrategy’s Bitcoin holdings and an upcoming Microsoft vote, further supported its rise.
- Ethereum (ETH) declined 3.7%, underperforming BTC due to concerns over its fee generation, with the rise of app chains with independent rollups leading to fears of value being diverted from the mainnet.
- Solana (SOL) surged 9.7%, fueled by a surge in memecoin activity and AI-themed memes launched through pump.fun. This sparked retail interest and boosted Solana's DeFi Total Value Locked (TVL), particularly in Liquid Staking, DEXs, and Lending sectors.

### Apps Keep Getting Bigger

In recent months, application-based projects have seen a significant rise in revenue, now coming close to the top infrastructure solutions. Among the 15 highest-earning projects, 12 are applications, collectively generating $164 million during a 30-day period—almost matching the $182 million total from the three leading infrastructure projects. This trend suggests that applications could soon capture a larger share of the market’s revenue.

As more Layer 1 and Layer 2 projects emerge, there is growing focus on applications that achieve product-market fit. While infrastructure is still essential, successful user-oriented applications are increasingly seen as key to attracting new users to the space.

The shift towards application-driven revenue is likely to continue. Monitoring the evolving relationship between infrastructure and applications will provide insights into which assets are generating the most value in the crypto market.

### NFTs

Turning to the NFT space, October saw a strong 15.8% increase in total sales volume, reaching US $350 million—marking the first sales growth since March 2024 after a six-month decline.

Within Ethereum’s blockchain, notable collections displayed mixed results. CryptoPunks saw a 39.8% drop in sales, while the Bored Ape Yacht Club and Pudgy Penguins showed growth, up 42.5% and 22.7%, respectively. Additionally, meme collections like Milady Maker, Project AEON, and Sproto Gremlin saw astonishing increases, with some reaching over 1000% growth.

In Bitcoin Ordinals, sales volumes also saw impressive rebounds, with Bitcoin Puppets up 72.1%, Ordinal Maxi Biz up 36.4%, and Based Angels soaring by 865.2%. These results suggest that, despite some volatility, optimism in the NFT market is building.

### Memecoins Demonstrate Strong Value Growth

Memecoins had a strong showing in October, with four of the top five performing tokens over the 30-day period being memecoins. Their share of trading volume relative to the top 50 altcoins (by market capitalization) has steadily increased, from 6% to over 12%, occasionally surpassing 20%. Since February, memecoins have averaged $5 billion in daily trading volume, showcasing their growing market influence.

This success is driven by perceived fairness—memecoins have all their supply in circulation, unlike VC-backed tokens with insider allocations. Their accessibility, with themes like cute animals and viral memes, also appeals to a broader audience. It remains to be seen if memecoins can sustain or even grow their momentum as 2024 ends.

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Crypto Growth

Blockchain abstraction, often called chain abstraction, has emerged as a key topic in Web3 as developers, users, and enthusiasts look for ways to attract new users and expand the overall crypto ecosystem.

Blockchain abstraction involves streamlining the user experience of blockchain technology by decoupling it from the hard-to-understand underlying systems while preserving its essential advantages.

Simply put, blockchain technology gets abstracted away from the user experience. This approach facilitates easier interactions for users and developers with blockchain applications, eliminating the need for extensive technical expertise.

### Why Chain Abstraction Matters

The main purpose of chain abstraction is to simplify how blockchain technology is experienced, separating the technical details from user interactions. By doing so, it increases accessibility, making it easier for more people to engage with blockchain applications. Developers also benefit from this approach, as it allows them to focus on creating decentralized applications (dApps) without being bogged down by the intricacies of the blockchain. Moreover, abstraction supports interoperability, facilitating easier connections between various blockchains and promoting new developments in the ecosystem.

### Unlocking Blockchain’s Potential

Chain abstraction makes it easier for users to interact with decentralized applications (dApps) by removing the need to understand the underlying complexities of different blockchains. Much like how modern web browsers enable seamless internet browsing without requiring technical knowledge, chain abstraction allows users to manage their digital assets and engage with blockchain-based services without needing expertise in blockchain technology itself.

Additionally, chain abstraction enhances liquidity across blockchains by enabling users and developers to access a broader range of liquidity options. This integration facilitates more favorable rates and improves the efficiency of financial applications by eliminating the barriers between different blockchain networks.

For developers, chain abstraction offers the flexibility to leverage multiple blockchains within a single decentralized application. This allows them to combine the strengths of different blockchains—such as Ethereum’s smart contracts and Polygon’s low fees—resulting in a more cost-effective, high-performance dApp.

Finally, chain abstraction promotes interoperability, enabling smooth communication and transactions between diverse blockchain networks. This is crucial for the continued evolution of the decentralized ecosystem, fostering a more interconnected and adaptable landscape.

### Potential Challenges

Developing a single interface for various blockchains could create a single point of failure. Maintaining a decentralized and secure framework is vital for mitigating the risks associated with centralization.

Each blockchain operates under its unique security protocols. One of the main challenges is to ensure that chain abstraction does not undermine these protocols. For example, weaknesses in one blockchain could potentially impact the entire chain abstraction system if not managed appropriately.

Different blockchains employ varying consensus algorithms and smart contract languages, making interoperability complicated. It is crucial to create a robust and adaptable system that can effectively navigate these differences for successful chain abstraction.

Handling cross-chain transactions and sustaining a unified interface can lead to performance inefficiencies. Fine-tuning these processes is essential to ensure seamless and efficient operations, avoiding delays and disruptions.

### The End Goal of Chain Abstraction

The end goal of chain abstraction is to simplify the user journey and eliminate the friction often associated with blockchain interactions. Users could log in with just an email, automatically creating a zero-fund account—no seed phrases or private key management needed. The applications they engage with could then initiate meta-transactions, sending them through a trusted intermediary. If users need to interact with other blockchains, their account could seamlessly connect to a multi-chain signature service that would forward transactions and cover gas fees. For instance, users could easily collect NFTs from various blockchains, all through a single email login. They wouldn’t need to manually create accounts or acquire cryptocurrency to engage with NFTs across different networks.

Looking forward, chain abstraction is set to drive major advancements in decentralized applications, helping solve many challenges around user experience, liquidity fragmentation, and blockchain interoperability. As this technology matures, it will play a pivotal role in shaping the Web3 ecosystem, fostering a more connected, efficient, and user-centric decentralized world.

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Chain Abstraction

Why are some nations wealthy while others struggle with poverty? This question has intrigued economists for decades, and recent [Nobel-winning research](https://www.nobelprize.org/prizes/economic-sciences/2024/press-release/) highlights the role of public institutions as a key factor in prosperity. According to the study, inclusive institutions that encourage participation and growth can drive economic success, while extractive ones may hinder progress, regardless of individual efforts.

These insights into economic structures come at a time when technology is rapidly reshaping how economies operate and evolve. In an era of fast-paced digital transformation, blockchain, in particular, offers a new approach — enabling quick experimentation and near-instant results that would be unthinkable in traditional economic systems. So, what cutting-edge innovations has blockchain brought to the world? Let’s summarize the key advancements in today’s article.

### Bitcoin

Bitcoin stands out as a prime example of blockchain technology’s potential, functioning as a decentralized store of value that offers individuals an alternative to traditional currencies and investment assets. Often referred to as "digital gold," Bitcoin shares similar qualities, such as a limited supply and the ability to serve as a hedge against inflation and economic instability. Its robust network further enhances its appeal, making it increasingly popular for long-term savings and wealth preservation.

However, this innovative currency presents challenges, particularly concerning privacy. The transparency inherent in the Bitcoin network means that, while transactions can be pseudonymous, they remain publicly visible on the blockchain. This openness creates a paradox: many users are attracted to the idea of financial autonomy, yet the lack of privacy may deter those wishing to keep their financial activities confidential. Consequently, there is increasing anticipation for new protocols that could enhance privacy without compromising the decentralized nature that makes Bitcoin so revolutionary.

### Ethereum

Ethereum revolutionized the blockchain landscape by introducing the principle that "code is law," establishing a framework where developers can create decentralized applications and smart contracts. This innovative platform led to the emergence of standardized tokens like ERC-20, which facilitated a new wave of digital assets. The rapid adoption of these standards resulted in an explosion of token creation, including everything from utility tokens to memecoins, showcasing the platform’s versatility and accessibility.

Ethereum also exemplifies the boundless potential of blockchain technology: the ability to create virtually anything without limitations. This environment fostered the development of "right institutions," paving the way for groundbreaking innovations such as Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs), Decentralized Finance (DeFi), Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), and Play-to-Earn games. These advancements have reshaped various industries, driven by two foundational pillars: robust code standards and the freedom to innovate without constraint.

### Binance Smart Chain

Building on Ethereum's foundational principles, Binance Smart Chain (BSC) emerged as a platform that offers cheaper and faster transactions, attracting developers and users alike. This accessibility sparked a significant surge in decentralized applications and services, catalyzing the creation of Web3 games and other innovative projects. The success of BSC's model not only expanded the ecosystem but also led to the proliferation of over 200 Ethereum clones, as developers sought to replicate its achievements. By lowering barriers to entry, BSC democratized access to blockchain technology, enabling a wider audience to engage with decentralized finance and other digital experiences.

### Polygon

Taking the evolution of blockchain scalability a step further, Polygon (previously known as Matic Network) introduced solutions that allowed for near-instant transactions with minimal fees. Initially, this resulted in a flourishing ecosystem of decentralized applications and economic bots, demonstrating the potential for a high-volume, low-cost environment. However, this rapid growth revealed inherent challenges, as the influx of activity underscored the unsustainability of completely free transactions. In response, Polygon's developers implemented a strategy to introduce minimal fees, striking a balance between accessibility and sustainability.

### Web3 Gaming

As blockchain technology continues to reshape traditional economic models, its impact extends significantly into the gaming industry. The rise of Play-to-Earn (P2E) games represents a significant shift in the blockchain and Web3 economy, redefining player engagement in digital environments. By leveraging blockchain technology, these games allow players to earn real-world value through in-game activities, fundamentally altering gaming dynamics. Unlike traditional games that limit ownership and confine value to centralized systems, P2E games foster fully on-chain economies where digital assets can be owned, traded, and monetized, granting players true ownership and agency over their virtual assets.

However, creating sustainable economies within these games poses unique challenges. In a decentralized landscape, even minor disturbances in the in-game economy can trigger significant sell-offs, leading to instability reminiscent of financial panics. To tackle this, developers are innovating economic models that prioritize balance and resilience. These advancements not only enhance player engagement but also cultivate community-driven ecosystems where players can influence the direction of their favorite games. As the P2E model evolves, the potential for blockchain to transform the gaming landscape remains immense, paving the way for new forms of interaction and economic participation.

### Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the transformative potential of blockchain technology extends beyond innovative financial instruments and decentralized applications; it also emphasizes the importance of establishing robust governance structures that foster inclusivity and resilience. By learning from the successes of nations with effective economic models and integrating these insights into blockchain initiatives, stakeholders can create the right institutions needed to support sustainable growth in virtual economies. As we advance into this digital era, focusing on sound governance will be crucial for harnessing blockchain's capabilities and driving meaningful economic participation, ultimately paving the way for a more equitable and prosperous future.


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Blockchain Evolution

Crypto markets are known for their ups and downs, but if you take a closer look, certain patterns begin to emerge. One of the most talked-about is “Uptober” — the idea that October often brings a boost in crypto prices. It’s become a bit of a tradition for traders to watch and speculate around this time each year. Let’s take a closer look at what makes 'Uptober' so interesting.

### The Meaning of “Uptober”

For those unfamiliar, “Uptober” combines “up” and “October” and refers to the historical trend where Bitcoin, and often other major cryptocurrencies, experience a price surge in October.

October is typically a strong month for BTC, with gains in 9 out of the last 11 years, excluding the current year of 2024. The only exceptions were in 2014 and 2018, when BTC recorded losses. In the other years, October consistently delivered solid gains for the leading crypto asset. Below, you’ll find a table from Coinglass outlining BTC’s price movements by month, starting from 2013.

![table btc moves.png](/uploads/table_btc_moves_0f8de48e89.png)


### Other Months

November and December also tend to bring favorable results for Bitcoin, earning them the nicknames “Moonvember” and “Bullcember” due to historical price increases. Another standout is February, which has only seen negative results twice in the last decade — 2014 and 2020 — highlighting its overall positive track record.

In contrast, September has typically been a challenging period for BTC. While it posted positive results in both 2023 and 2024, historically it has been one of the more difficult months, with only 4 out of the last 12 years showing gains. This trend has led to terms like “Redtember” or “Rektember” in the crypto community. August follows a similar pattern, with just 4 positive years in the last 12, reinforcing its reputation as a tough month for crypto investors.

When looking at median performance, October stands out as the best-performing month, with an average increase of +21.20%, making “Uptober” a fitting label. In contrast, August has the lowest median performance, with an average loss of -8.04%. These trends highlight October's significance in the crypto calendar and provide insight into potential market expectations.

These patterns highlight the significance of October in the crypto calendar and offer insights into potential market behavior.

### Current October Trends

This year, positive market sentiment picked up following the Federal Reserve's interest rate cut, sparking a surge in the value of various meme coins. On September 27, more than $400 million flowed into spot Bitcoin ETFs after a prolonged period of stagnation. QCP’s market analysis highlighted strong perpetual funding as well. 

One possible reason for this uptick is that October often brings key market announcements, coming after the slower summer period but well ahead of the holiday season. This year has already seen significant developments, including PayPal’s announcement that merchants can now buy, hold, and sell cryptocurrencies. PayPal, which has facilitated peer-to-peer crypto transfers for years, launched its own stablecoin, PYUSD, in 2023, further driving adoption.

### Summing Up

As October unfolds, the crypto community is filled with anticipation, given the historical trend of “Uptober”, which often signals price increases. The combination of past performance and current market sentiment suggests that this month could present potential opportunities for investors.

However, it is important to remain cautious and conduct thorough research before making any investment decisions. Utilizing our [DEX analytics tool](https://whattofarm.io) can provide valuable insights and help investors navigate the evolving landscape effectively, ensuring they make well-informed choices during this pivotal time.

**Please note, the views expressed in this article are not financial advice. It is essential to conduct your own research before making any investment decisions*

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Navigating Uptober

Traditional social media platforms have their flaws, including data breaches, content moderation issues, and a somewhat relaxed approach to user privacy. These problems have affected major players such as Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Can blockchain technology and decentralized social networks revolutionize the online experience for billions of users worldwide? Is your data more secure on the blockchain than on centralized servers?

In this article, we will explore decentralized social media networks and consider how they might address the issues that plague traditional platforms.

### Advantages and disadvantages of decentralized social networks

Decentralized social networks tackle many problems faced by traditional platforms but also come with their own set of challenges. Let's explore the advantages and disadvantages of these networks.

**Advantages:**

- **User privacy and security** – Decentralized social networks offer users better security and privacy.
- **Control over your data** – You alone control your data and how it’s used on a decentralized network.
- **Decentralized governance** – A decentralized autonomous organization guides key decisions regarding the growth and development of the platform.
- **Monetization opportunities** – Content creators enjoy alternative monetization methods, instead of relying solely on sponsored posts and advertising.
- **Censorship-resistant** – Decentralized social media networks provide everyone with a platform for free speech. Once a post is shared, only the original poster can remove it.

**Disadvantages:**

- **Web3 UX issues** – Blockchain-based applications still have a high entry barrier. User experience issues can hamstring mass adoption and discourage users.
- **Tough competition** – Existing centralized networks like Facebook and Twitter have monopolized the market, making it difficult to attract new users.
- **Scalability** – Blockchain transaction fees can be expensive.
- **Market volatility** – Because many platforms are tied to supporting cryptocurrencies, bear markets and crypto market fluctuations can devalue a network’s monetization offerings.
- **Censorship-resistant** – Without content moderation, decentralized social media networks can become breeding grounds for unrestrained hate speech and cyberbullying.

### Examples

There are a lot of decentralized social networks — Mastodon, Steemit, Only1, and many others. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Lens and Farcaster protocols.

**Lens Protocol**

Introduced by the Aave team in 2022, Lens Protocol is a leading decentralized social graph network that offers users exceptional control over their social profiles.

What makes Lens Protocol unique is its completely composable and decentralized approach. Users have the ability to create a Lens handle as an NFT directly in their crypto wallet. These Lens NFTs are not limited to Lens only – they effortlessly integrate with various dApps and smart contracts within the growing LensVerse ecosystem. Additionally, users can trade their Lens NFTs on secondary marketplaces such as Opensea.

Built on the Polygon network, Lens Protocol offers a refreshing experience with low gas fees and swift transactions, ensuring a smooth user experience.

The Lens Protocol ecosystem consists of a range of evolving applications that enhance the capabilities of the decentralized social network. Whether you need secure communication, creative social engagements, or content creation tools, the Lens Protocol ecosystem provides a varied selection of projects to fulfill your requirements.

*Orb*

Orb, an innovative application in the Lens ecosystem, enables users to efficiently handle their social interactions. It provides features for creating, organizing, and managing connections, all while ensuring users maintain ownership of their data.

*Hey.xyz*

Hey plays a crucial role in the Lens Protocol ecosystem by offering a seamless communication platform. It incorporates different social aspects while upholding decentralization principles, guaranteeing the security and privacy of user data.

*Bonsai Token*

Bonsai, a DN-404 token on the Polygon network, was created to integrate with the Lens Protocol. Its purpose is to support community builders, explorers, and early adopters of on-chain social platforms. The token enables a variety of on-chain actions directly from Lens posts and aims to improve social media interaction via DeFi and creative contributions. Part of its tokenomics is dedicated to community airdrops and ecosystem support.

**Farcaster**

Farcaster operates as a decentralized social protocol utilizing Optimism. It enables users to establish profiles, share messages, and engage with one another, similar to popular social media platforms like Reddit or X (formerly Twitter).

Farcaster leverages blockchain technology to securely link and process personal data while upholding decentralization and anonymity. Its primary focus lies in scalability and adaptability to new technologies to maximize user value.

The protocol employs smart contracts to govern social interactions within the network, adding a layer of programmability and customization to social networking. Farcaster's emphasis on interoperability allows for seamless interaction with other blockchain networks, fostering a smooth exchange of information and assets across various platforms.

This interoperability enables developers to construct diverse decentralized social media applications (dApps) on top of the Farcaster protocol.

A Farcaster account creation requires an Ethereum (EVM) address, which will be associated with the account and utilized to sign and publish messages on the Farcaster protocol (as opposed to the traditional username/password approach). Activities such as posts, replies, and follows are recognized as messages of any activity.

User account data, such as profile details, is stored on-chain via a smart contract (e.g., ID Registry) deployed on the Optimism mainnet. Other data, such as Casts, is stored off-chain on Farcaster's storage network named Hubs.

Manageable via ENS on-chain, usernames ensure that users maintain control over their identity compared to centralized entities, which may revoke usernames at their discretion. Any individual can query the ENSRegistry contract to map a username to its custody address.

Users have the ability to create and integrate decentralized applications within their posts (e.g., a mint NFT button, 1-click DAO vote, etc.). These integrations, known as "Frames," must adhere to the OpenGraph to display properly in a Cast. Notable Frames developed by others include @cookies, which developed a seamless checkout experience in a Frame powered by Coinbase Commerce, and $DEGEN, an ERC-20 token distributed to the Farcaster community via the BASE chain.

The absence of a single entity owning the underlying data means that any Farcaster account holder can operate a Farcaster node (also known as a Hub) and access/write data.

Farcaster's distinctive features are upheld by specific smart contracts, each fulfilling unique functions to facilitate the decentralized experience. Moreover, the network features Hubs, which denote open-source, decentralized, distributed peer-to-peer nodes responsible for storing and serving Farcaster data.

### Comparing Decentralized Social Networks to Traditional Social Media

These alternative platforms have a shared objective: to provide users with more control over their content and access rights. Their goal is to distribute storage and control across social networks and establish decentralized structures.

They operate on a peer-to-peer (P2P) model, enabling direct user interaction without reliance on a central authority or server. They are known for being decentralized, open-source, ad-free, and owned by the community.

Decentralized networks prioritize individual ownership and control of data and interactions, empowering users to handle their personal information more effectively. Privacy is a key focus, with reduced data collection, encryption methods, and selective data sharing to improve user experience.

Additionally, decentralized networks aim to combat censorship through distributed content storage, community-driven moderation, and anti-censorship tools. Content on decentralized networks is less susceptible to removal or suppression, promoting freedom of expression.

Both conventional and decentralized social networks have their own benefits and difficulties. Decentralized networks emphasize privacy, user independence, resistance to censorship, and the ability to withstand single points of failure. On the other hand, traditional centralized networks typically offer convenience, a large user population, and a smooth user experience.

Web3 native social platforms are not the sole entities looking to incorporate blockchain technology into their systems, with X and Instagram now providing support for NFTs.

### Conclusion

Decentralized social networks offer a revolutionary model for social engagement, a significant departure from the deficiencies of centralized alternatives. They provide a high level of control, privacy, and independence, enabling self-expression without the restrictions often imposed by traditional platforms. 

Through the adoption of decentralized technology and novel methods for monetizing content, these social media platforms are paving the way for a fairer and user-focused internet experience. Whether you're a creator, an enthusiastic user of social media, or someone seeking a more secure and privacy-oriented online space, exploring these decentralized social media platforms is certainly worthwhile.

The New Era of Online Privacy and User Autonomy

Decentralized Social Networks

Beyond cryptocurrencies and AI, there's a third innovation that will soon dominate the news cycle and has the potential to change everyone’s life: Zero Knowledge (ZK) Proofs.

So, what exactly is ZK? In short, it's an advanced form of cryptography that allows you to prove a computation’s correctness using only the formula, without knowing the actual data.

Think of a simple example: a + b = c. We don't know the values of a or b, just the operation "+", but we can still prove that c = c.

### **Four Major Problems in IT**

Currently, there are four global challenges that the IT sector is facing:

1. *The Explosive Growth of Information:* The amount of data being created is increasing at a staggering rate. It won’t be long before we might have to cover the entire planet with servers just to store photos, videos, and other data – not to mention the vast amounts being generated by AI.
2. *Proving the Authenticity of Information:* There’s currently no reliable way to prove that information is original. AI can generate content that looks and sounds like the real thing, and there have already been cases of fraud where an AI pretends to be a familiar person. How can we ensure that AI, like ChatGPT, is trained on truthful data?
3. *The Uncertainty of Data Origins:* In an era of endless server growth and varying capacities, the challenge of determining the true source of data becomes increasingly complex. Additionally, what are the costs associated with storing original data?
4. *The Problem of Data Privacy:* At the moment, privacy on the internet is nearly nonexistent. If you wish to do so, you can gather almost any private information on anyone or anything. There are currently no tools or technologies that can truly protect your privacy with code or encryption.

And the answer to all these problems is, of course, ZK-Proofs.

### First Uses of ZK-Proofs

The concept of ZK-Proofs was first put into practical use within the ZCash project, during a period when the community placed great emphasis on privacy in payments. The underlying idea was straightforward: by being able to prove the validity of a transaction without disclosing the identities of the sender or recipient, it was possible to uphold the anonymity that is a fundamental characteristic of cash.

ZCash, which initially implemented ZK-Proofs, has now become largely outdated. Nevertheless, its developers made significant contributions by providing foundational code that paved the way for new opportunities.

Although the appeal of using ZK for solving Problem #4 in identification or authentication has waned over time, it's essential to recognize that for future KYC (Know Your Customer) technologies, there is currently no alternative technological solution. Existing methods such as hashing, caching, or even smart contracts are insufficient in addressing these issues; only ZK-Proofs have the capability to do so.

### ZK Technology and Ethereum

Then there was an effort to integrate ZK technology into the Ethereum platform, but it was not fully successful. Nevertheless, valuable insights were gained from this attempt, similar to what was learned from ZCash. 

The Tornado Cash project, built on ZK Proofs in Ethereum, allowed for anonymous payments through smart contracts. Despite its innovative use of ZK-Proofs, the project was shut down due to legal and regulatory actions. The trend of anonymous payments has faded, but ZK-Proofs were key to enabling this technology.

What’s even more important is that Ethereum’s blockchain has integrated the capability to create and verify ZK-Proof evidence at the protocol level. This development was a major milestone, as it addressed Problem #3: "*The Uncertainty of Data Origins*". Now, any service utilizing ZK-Proofs can leverage Ethereum’s decentralized network to validate computations, transforming Ethereum Layer 1 into a tool not only for generating digital assets like DOGE and PEPE but also for storing global data.

You might think it’s unrealistic — storing data on Ethereum is costly and impractical. But let’s take a closer look.

### Storing Data on Ethereum: The Cost

While exploring Zero-Knowledge (ZK) technology for privacy applications, an additional benefit was discovered: ZK-Proofs have the capability to significantly compress data. For example, through a formula that organizes a photo's pixels into an image, combined with knowledge of the computation result, it is possible to compress a photo from several megabytes to just a few bytes using a ZK Proof.

This level of compression is unparalleled by any other technology. Traditional methods focus on compressing the information itself, but with the ever-growing data on smartphones, the use of a ZK storage device in an iPhone could potentially provide the freedom to capture unlimited photos without even having to pay for iCloud storage.

### Google and Its Investment in Crypto

The recent advancement in ZK technology has positioned it as a potential game-changer due to its ability to achieve maximal theoretical data compression. Major global corporations specializing in data management, such as Google, AWS, and Microsoft, have taken notice of these developments. Research into ZK-Proofs is becoming increasingly essential for these companies as it presents an opportunity to significantly reduce the costs associated with storing media files.

Interestingly, the cryptographic technology crucial for the widespread adoption of crypto and Ethereum is now being developed by major IT corporations. Unlike crypto enthusiasts fighting for a fair Web3, these companies see ZK-Proofs as a practical necessity to reduce server costs for storing photos and videos. It's almost ironic that the key cryptographic technology for mass adoption is being developed by these tech giants, driven by their need to cut costs.

Furthermore, cloud service providers are currently grappling with the challenge of managing data growth by resorting to data deletion. ZK-Proofs, therefore, emerges as the solution for preserving digital assets in the long term. Failure to adopt such measures may result in the eventual deletion of data, including valuable insights and knowledge accumulated over time.

Considering that AI models like ChatGPT are trained on this accumulated data, it is important to contemplate the potential consequences of data loss. In the event of data deletion due to non-payment or other reasons, the ramifications could extend to future AI models, hindering their ability to learn and evolve from the wealth of knowledge that has been erased.

### Your Blockchain, Your Rules: Solving Problems #2 and #3

What's next? Ethereum has introduced technologies like Rollups and Plasma, enabling Layer 2 blockchains and potentially extending to Layer 3, Layer 4, and beyond. If you want to ensure that your photos are genuinely yours and not AI-generated imitations, you can set up your own Layer 34523 blockchain at home to store ZK Proofs of your images. While "Layer 34523" may not sound glamorous, it offers decentralized and secure verification of your privacy and original content on the Ethereum blockchain. Each ZK Proof is validated by higher-level networks before being confirmed by the main Ethereum network. Plus, operating your own blockchain layer could be free, as you control it. Your blockchain, your rules.

Problem #3 is solved with this approach. And if your company sets up the layer to authenticate your news feed, Problem #2 is resolved as well. With personalized blockchains for each user, you could even discover if your Facebook friends are real people — though it might be surprising.

### What’s Next for ZK-Proofs?

What happens if data compression and ZK-Proofs become widespread in our daily lives? A market for ZK-Proofs will likely emerge, and like any free market, you could participate and earn money from it. For example, if you need to compute a ZK-Proof for an image rapidly, you could post an offer on a proving market, and someone with a laptop might take on the task. Alternatively, they might process an entire batch of ZK-Proofs. Such proving markets already exist and are evolving.

As ZK-Proofs continue to integrate into various aspects of technology, their potential for transforming data verification and compression is increasingly apparent. By enabling more secure, private, and efficient ways to manage data, ZK-Proofs could become a significant factor in the future of digital interactions. Whether through personalized blockchains or emerging markets, the broader adoption of ZK-Proofs might reshape how we verify, store, and interact with information, opening new possibilities in privacy and data management.

A Game-Changer for Data Security and Compression

Zero-Knowledge Proofs

In 2024, the Metaverse might not be making headlines as it once did, but it's far from stagnant. This ever-evolving digital realm continues to reshape the way we connect, work, and play, offering endless possibilities for creativity, collaboration, and commerce.  While we’re still far from fully merging metaverses into our daily lives, staying informed on its progress is key to unlocking the potential it holds for all of us.

### The Term

The term “Metaverse” was first coined in Neal Stephenson's 1992 cyberpunk novel *Snow Crash*, combining "meta" and "universe." Essentially, it describes a shared, online virtual space where users can interact with each other and their environment in real time. This concept transcends physical reality, enabling users to explore virtual worlds, engage in various activities, and create and trade digital assets.

A recent [report](https://analytics.dappcraft.io/) by DAPPCRAFT highlights that "the term Metaverse is not yet well-defined, which potentially introduces cognitive biases when using this term." 

According to the report, a “Metaverse” is a digital virtual environment that: 

1. Offers its participants tools for creating new virtual environments and assets that are not required to be connected to each other stylistically or by a common story; 

2. Allows transition between worlds created by other participants (via teleports or open-world model).

The report also attributes the following features to metaverses: support for blockchain technology, public access, and a distinction from traditional games. 

It’s important to recognize that the term "Metaverse" can refer to two different concepts. On one hand, it can describe a broad virtual universe, comprising various interconnected metaverse projects and platforms, each contributing to a larger digital ecosystem. On the other hand, "Metaverse" might also denote a specific virtual world created and managed by a dedicated team, with its own unique features, rules, and experiences.

### Prominent Metaverse Projects

Now that we've clarified the definition, let’s explore some of the standout projects in the Metaverse space: **The Sandbox**, **Decentraland**, and **Oncyber**. 

**The Sandbox** is a vibrant universe on the Ethereum blockchain, where NFTs represent unique digital assets. LAND, its fundamental unit, is an ERC-721 NFT measuring 96 meters by 96 meters. Owners can terraform and customize their LAND, with over 115,850 of the 166,464 total LANDs already minted by a decentralized community of more than 23,500 members. The Sandbox offers a dynamic platform for creating, sharing, and monetizing virtual experiences. To dive into The Sandbox, create an account on their [website](https://www.sandbox.game/) via Web3 wallet, email, or Google, then select "Play" to explore active events and download the game client.

**Decentraland** is a decentralized virtual world on the Ethereum blockchain where the community drives the experience. Its virtual city, Genesis City, consists of LAND parcels that can be bought, sold, and rented through the Decentraland Marketplace. The platform operates under community governance, with open-source code allowing continuous improvements and hosting by users. Creators design Wearables and Emotes, earning from sales and supporting community grants. Explore daily events or contribute your own by creating an account on their [website](https://decentraland.org/) via Web3 wallet, email, or a social media account.

**Oncyber** makes creating 3D browser games and experiences easy and accessible. With its intuitive interface, you can build and share 3D environments directly in your browser with just a few clicks. Oncyber supports custom scripting for unique interactions and includes automatic performance enhancements such as LOD and asset optimization. A marketplace for assets is coming soon, and you can collaborate with others by sharing a link to your space. Explore the possibilities of Oncyber and get started by checking out the [Getting Started Guide](https://docs.oncyber.io/guides/getting_started).

### More Metaverses

If you're interested in diving deeper into the metaverse, there are many more exciting projects to check out beyond the ones we’ve just covered. The DAPPCRAFT report provides a broader comparison, including platforms like **Substrata, Spatial, Hyperfy, Voxels, SomniumSpace,** and **Monaverse**. Here's a snapshot of how they stack up:

- **Community Activity**: The leaders in community engagement are The Sandbox, Decentraland, Voxels, and Oncyber. Spatial has a strong Discord presence with 18,432 members.
- **Player Activity**: Substrata and Oncyber take the lead in terms of concurrent users, showing high engagement levels.
- **Customization**: Decentraland and Substrata stand out with their fully open-source platforms, offering extensive customization.
- **Web3 Compatibility**: Decentraland, Sandbox, and SomniumSpace integrate deeply with the Web3 ecosystem, each having their own tokens.
- **Decentralization**: All these projects support permissionless scene deployment, with Decentraland and Sandbox also being governed by DAOs.

These platforms each offer unique features and experiences, giving you plenty of options to explore and find the metaverse experience that best fits your interests.

### Benefits of Metaverse Adoption

As we delve into the potential of the metaverse, it becomes clear that its adoption offers transformative benefits across various sectors. In social interactions, the metaverse creates immersive environments where individuals can connect and engage more deeply, transcending geographical boundaries. Whether attending virtual concerts or exploring digital worlds together, these shared experiences foster a sense of community, even when physical gatherings are restricted, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In the workplace, the metaverse has the potential to revolutionize how we collaborate. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies enable remote working environments that are more interactive and engaging, enhancing productivity and creativity. Virtual meeting spaces can simulate in-person collaboration, making remote work more dynamic. Similarly, in education, the metaverse can offer more personalized and immersive learning experiences, catering to different learning styles and increasing accessibility to quality education.

### Conclusion

The metaverse is still in its early stages, but its potential to reshape social interactions, work environments, and education is undeniable. The projects and innovations discussed here are just the beginning, and the future of the metaverse holds even more opportunities for creativity, collaboration, and growth. As this digital landscape continues to evolve, it will likely play a central role in how we connect, work, and learn in increasingly immersive and dynamic ways.

The Metaverse in 2024

Despite the ups and downs in the market, NFT technology continues to evolve and impact various industries. While the crypto community is already familiar with digital art and gaming NFTs, music NFTs are emerging as another significant area. Today, we'll explore what music NFTs are and how they are reshaping the relationship between artists and their audiences.

### Music NFTs: What Are They?

Music NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) are unique digital items representing ownership of music or music-related content. This includes access to music platforms, concert tickets, and more. Stored on blockchains, these NFTs ensure each token is one-of-a-kind and cannot be replicated. You can view music NFTs in NFT-compatible wallets or on various NFT platforms, which we'll explore further later.

Music NFTs come in various forms. Some focus solely on music, offering unique songs or audio files as digital items. Others combine music with visuals, adding interactive and dynamic elements. Finally, some NFTs enhance the fan experience by offering exclusive access or perks, deepening the connection between artists and their audiences.

**How They Work:**

- Artists create digital music or related content.
- They mint (create) NFTs on a blockchain, making each piece unique.
- Fans buy these NFTs, gaining ownership and exclusive rights.

### What’s in It for Fans

Music NFTs offer fans exciting benefits, such as better engagement and investment opportunities. Fans can connect more closely with their favorite artists through exclusive content and experiences that aren’t available elsewhere. This might include special releases, behind-the-scenes access, or direct interactions with the artists, making fans feel more involved.

In addition to this closer connection, music NFTs also provide investment potential. Owning rare or limited-edition NFTs can be profitable, as their value may increase over time. Fans who buy early can enjoy the pride of supporting artists from the start and potentially benefit financially as the artist's popularity grows.

### Empowering Artists

For artists, music NFTs offer diverse possibilities for independent growth and engaging with their communities.

**Authenticity and Ownership:** Music NFTs ensure genuine ownership of digital music, protecting artists' rights and intellectual property. This technology guarantees that each piece of music is unique and can't be copied, giving fans a secure way to own digital music.

**Royalties:** Smart contracts in music NFTs allow artists to earn royalties every time their NFT is resold. This means that whenever an NFT is sold, the artist gets a percentage of the sale, ensuring they benefit from their work's growing value.

**Direct Fan Engagement:** Additionally, music NFTs help artists connect directly with their fans. Artists can offer exclusive content and unique experiences, creating a closer bond with their audience.

### Platform Spotlights

Music NFTs caught your eye? Then let’s take a look at some of the platforms where you can find and explore them:

- **OpenSea**

As the largest NFT platform, OpenSea also features Music NFTs. To explore them, simply click on the [Music](https://opensea.io/category/music) category in the main navigation bar.

- **Sound.xyz**

Sound.xyz is dedicated to music and lets you dive into Music NFTs as soon as you visit their [website](https://www.sound.xyz/). They regularly host drops and events to keep the community engaged.

- **Gala Music**

Gala Music, part of the renowned Gala Games, is a Web3 music platform with its own token, Gala Music (MUSIC). Explore tracks and drops directly on their [website](https://music.gala.com/) or through their mobile app.

- **Beatport.io**

Beatport.io is a specialized platform focusing on electronic music, developed by the well-known DJ store Beatport. You can view digital collectibles on their main page [here](https://beatport.io/), and they feature their own NFT collection called Synth Heads.

### The Future of Music NFTs

Music NFTs are gaining momentum and transforming the music industry in exciting ways. They provide established artists with new revenue streams and opportunities to engage with their fans. At the same time, they offer emerging artists a platform to gain initial popularity through NFT drops and exclusive content.

Despite this promising growth, the NFT space is still predominantly focused on digital art and gaming. As Music NFTs continue to evolve, it will be fascinating to see how they carve out their own space and influence the broader NFT landscape. Keep an eye on this trend, as it has the potential to reshape how we experience and support music.

**Please note, the views expressed in this article are not financial advice. It is essential to conduct your own research before making any investment decisions*

The Rise of Music NFTs

### What Is Tap-To-Earn

T2E (Tap-to-Earn or Tap-2-Earn) is a type of crypto game where users earn rewards just by tapping the screen. These games combine simple gameplay with the potential to earn cryptocurrency, making them both engaging and rewarding. Developers often enhance these games with features like intriguing storylines, various upgrades, and special events to create a more immersive experience.

### Evolutionary Step In Web3 Gaming

Web3 gaming has been part of the crypto scene for a while, with early projects like Axie Infinity, Sandbox, and Stepn leading the Play-to-Earn (P2E) trend during the bull market of 2020-2021. However, these games faced challenges during the crypto winter due to their complexity, high entry costs, and the need for players to understand Web3 functionality.

The introduction of Notcoin changed the game by offering a simpler way to earn tokens through a tap-to-earn system. Its ease of use and earning potential quickly caught on, especially with its integration into Telegram's TON ecosystem, which has millions of users. Following Notcoin's success, other Tap-to-Earn (T2E) games have appeared, each bringing its own take on combining simplicity with earning.

### 5 Notable Tap-To-Earn Games

- 🐹 Hamster Kombat — the most popular tap-to-earn game at the moment that allows players to take on the role of the CEO.
- 🧬 TapSwap — a tap-to-earn game similar to Notcoin with some additional functionality.
- 👾 PixelTap — players receive rewards by tapping the screen, completing quests, and taking part in battles set in a cyberpunk-themed world.
- 🐱 Catizen — a bit more complicated than a usual tapper, Catizen sure is to interest anyone who likes either cats or resource management.
- 🪙 YesCoin — one of the most straightforward and casual tap-to-earn games.

### Tap-To-Earn Gameplay

Most tap-to-earn games share a few core elements. Players typically tap a coin or icon at the center of the screen to earn points. They can continue tapping until their energy bar is depleted, after which they must wait for it to refill before resuming. These games often include tasks, boosters, and upgrades. Tasks may involve actions like joining a community channel or following on social media to earn points. Boosters provide temporary benefits, like refilling the energy bar or increasing point earnings, and are usually available for free each day.

Social mechanics are also common, encouraging players to invite friends for bonuses when reaching certain milestones. Many games offer a percentage of points earned by referrals as an ongoing reward. Upgrades vary but generally enhance point earnings per tap, increase the energy limit, or speed up energy replenishment. Additionally, many games feature a “Tap-Bot” that automates tapping, allowing players to earn passively even when the app is closed.

### Impact

Tap-to-earn games are reshaping the landscape of Web3 gaming by making it more accessible and engaging. Their straightforward mechanics and rewarding experiences appeal to both seasoned crypto enthusiasts and newcomers alike. By lowering the entry barriers and simplifying the earning process, these games help bridge the gap between traditional gaming and cryptocurrency. As T2E games continue to evolve and attract a broader audience, they might play a crucial role in driving the widespread adoption of blockchain technologies. With their blend of simplicity and reward, tap-to-earn games are set to pave the way for the future of interactive and immersive digital experiences.

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