Aptos has added Chainlink Data Feeds to give developers access to reliable off-chain data in order to enhance the development of dApps on its blockchain. Chainlink is a decentralized oracle network that provides trusted and secure data to blockchains, and it is a popular solution in the Web3.

This integration will improve scalability, reliability and security of applications that are developed on Aptos.

Aptos Partners With Chainlink For Web3 Applications

In its most recent blog post, Aptos revealed that it is now collaborating with Chainlink Data Feeds to further complement its blockchain community. This integration enables the Aptos developers to integrate reliable off-chain data in their dApps. To avoid the risk of a single point of failure, Chainlink’s infrastructure combines data from several premium sources.

The integration will improve the credibility of the data required to design and build intricate applications. As a result, Chainlink’s decentralized oracle network will be utilized by Aptos to enable a secure and high throughput dApps environment. This will go a long way in helping to attend to the increasing needs of the Web3 ecosystem.

Thodoris Karakostas, head of blockchain partnerships at Chainlink commented,

“We are excited that Aptos has adopted the Chainlink standard. Chainlink Data Feeds will greatly enhance the reliability of applications built on the network, and we look forward to seeing the innovative ways developers leverage it.”

It is worth noting that Aptos Labs co-founder and CEO, Mo Shaikh recently resigned, with co-founder Avery Ching taking over as CEO.

Scalability and Security With Aptos’ Modular Architecture

Aptos has positioned itself as a high-performance blockchain with a focus on scalability and security. Its use of the Move programming language and Block-STM engine allows for efficient execution of complex transactions. This modular architecture supports reduced latency, ensuring fast and seamless user experiences.

With the addition of Chainlink Data Feeds, Aptos strengthens its ability to support enterprise-grade applications. Developers can now build decentralized solutions with enhanced security and scalability, addressing the evolving needs of blockchain users.

Chainlink has become a trusted standard for delivering verifiable data to blockchains, supporting major decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols. Its decentralized infrastructure eliminates manipulation risks by providing tamper-proof data through a network of reliable nodes. 

Chainlink’s technology plays a critical role in advancing Web3 by enabling real-time and accurate data delivery.

Ripple Leverages Chainlink for RLUSD Stablecoin

Notably, earlier this week, Ripple partnered with Chainlink to enhance its Ripple USD (RLUSD) stablecoin. Consequently, Chainlink’s decentralized oracle network now delivers secure price feeds for RLUSD on both Ethereum and the XRP Ledger.

Ripple’s adoption underscores the growing importance of secure data delivery in blockchain-based finance. The collaboration will boost RLUSD adoption by ensuring real-time, accurate pricing data. This will actively bridge the gap between blockchain technology and traditional finance.

Meanwhile, LINK whales offloaded 770,000 tokens worth $18.4 million between January 1 and January 4, following a 21% price rally. 

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Sonic, the Solana Virtual Machine (SVM) layer-2 chain for games and applications, is set to launch its native token, SONIC, on January 7, 2025. This development is a key milestone in Solana L2 Sonic’s roadmap, designed to power its gaming-focused blockchain ecosystem and enhance scalability across its infrastructure.

Solana L2 Sonic to Launch Native Token SONIC on January 7

According to a recent blog post, Sonic has outlined plans for the Token Generation Event (TGE) of its SONIC token, which will mark the next phase of its development. The total supply of the token is capped at 2.4 billion, with 57% allocated to the community. This allocation includes tokens reserved for ecosystem development, initial claims, and rewards within the Sonic HyperGrid framework.

Moreover, the TGE will see 15% of the total supply enter circulation to drive early adoption. The team has confirmed that SONIC will be listed on both centralized and Solana-based decentralized exchanges, with further details to be revealed via social media.

The Solana L2 native token distribution emphasizes community involvement, with 7% tokens earmarked for an airdrop to early supporters. Eligibility for the airdrop was determined through a snapshot taken on December 31, 2024. Participants can still qualify by engaging with SonicX on TikTok before January 6, 2025.

Starting January 3, the community can use an eligibility checker to verify their claims for the airdrop. The initiative will reward contributors who supported Solana L2 Sonic during its early stages, including delegators, node holders, and participants.

Token Utility and Ecosystem Integration

The SONIC token will play a central role in Solana L2 ecosystem, offering utility in several areas. It will function as a payment currency within Sonic SVM applications, support staking rewards, and enable community governance. Users can stake tokens to enhance network security and participate in decision-making processes within the ecosystem.

Validators in the Sonic HyperGrid network are required to stake SONIC tokens, and delegators contributing to the staking pool will earn rewards. This framework aims to incentivize active participation while ensuring stability and decentralization across the network.

The launch of Solana L2 SONIC token represents Phase 1 of the Layer-2 blockchain. It includes the activation of its HyperGrid Shared Sequencer Network and Sonic SVM Genesis. Phase 2 will see the deployment of the mainnet alpha, the introduction of bridges, and the launch of Sonic X apps for Android and iOS by early 2025. Further expansions are planned for mid-2025, including advanced scaling solutions and updated staking mechanisms.

In addition, Solana price forecast for 2025 reflects optimistic market sentiment, driven by its robust ecosystem and growing adoption. Analysts predict SOL price could target $400, supported by its previous upward trajectory from $84 to $263.83 in 2024.

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Zeus Network has introduced zBTC, a tokenized form of Bitcoin, to Solana’s blockchain, enabling new yield opportunities for Bitcoin holders. This development comes as the Zeus Network aims to enhance cross-chain liquidity and expand decentralized finance (DeFi) options.

zBTC Brings Bitcoin to Solana’s DeFi Ecosystem

The Zeus Network has successfully launched zBTC, a trustless, tokenized version of Bitcoin, on the Solana blockchain. zBTC allows users to engage with DeFi applications on Solana while retaining Bitcoin’s original security and value through a 1:1 peg with native BTC. Post the announcement, Zeus Network token ZEUS saw a price surge of over 4% as of press time trading at $0.7427. 

As per the network, zBTC launch is a major step in opening up cross-chain liquidity between Bitcoin and Solana blockchains. Bitcoin owners can now stake their assets into Solana’s DeFi market to generate returns without sacrificing the security of their BTC. 

“The First Permissionless BTC Now Live on Solana!”@ApolloByZeus, the Bitcoin liquidity terminal, has officially launched Mainnet v1, bringing $zBTC to @solana.

The Zeus Ecosystem kicks off a new era of cross-chain liquidity utilization, transforming on-chain Bitcoin DeFi.… pic.twitter.com/0PEpbx7pJ3

— Zeus Network (EPOCH 1) (@ZeusNetworkHQ) December 30, 2024

This integration is enabled by the Zeus Program Library (ZPL) and the ZeusNode infrastructure which provide a secure and efficient way for performing Bitcoin transactions across different chains.

APOLLO Enables Bitcoin Yield Opportunities

APOLLO, the first dApp in the Network ecosystem, has been introduced in the market together with the launch of zBTC. The APOLLO platform aims to function as a Bitcoin liquidity terminal where users can gain access to various investment options and generate consistent returns on their BTC in Solana’s DeFi sphere.

This feature guarantees that the Bitcoin assets are safe on the Bitcoin blockchain network while being actively used in Solana’s fast and scalable ecosystem. 

In its first phase, APOLLO has started enabling selected customers to mint zBTC after staking their Bitcoin. This feature opens up Solana for BTC holders to interact with DeFi dApps on the layer while at the same time provide a smooth Bitcoin to zBTC conversion.

Cross-Chain Liquidity Framework Sets New Standards

The Zeus Network’s ZeusNode architecture and ZPL are the key enablers of this innovation. These technologies allow for the validation, tokenization and transacting of Bitcoin on the Solana network without having to change Bitcoin’s original protocol. 

This cross-chain liquidity solution provides a safe transfer between the Bitcoin and Solana networks, with cheaper and faster transactions than on Bitcoin’s chain.

Implementing a multi-party computation (MPC) model, ZeusNode Guardians guarantee that Bitcoin transactions on Solana are fully trustless and secure. This harmonized validation structure ensures the validity of the transactions and also enables integration of Bitcoin in the Solana blockchain.

The network also shared that it aims to enhance its functionality and include UTXO-based cryptocurrencies such as Dogecoin, Litecoin, and Kaspa within the ecosystem by the year 2025.

Zeus Network Roadmap and Ecosystem Growth

Zeus Network has set goals for its ecosystem, starting with plans to onboard 1% of Bitcoin liquidity to Solana by mid-2025. The network aims to manage 2,250 BTC during this period, further strengthening its position in the cross-chain DeFi market.

Additionally, the Zeus Program Library will be open-sourced in 2025 to encourage developers to build new applications within the Zeus ecosystem. This move is expected to attract more decentralized applications and drive broader adoption of cross-chain Bitcoin liquidity solutions.

Justin Wang, co-founder and CEO of Zeus Network, stated,

“Zeus Network and its Guardians are redefining Bitcoin’s liquidity utilization, providing permissionless pathways for Bitcoin integration on Solana.”

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Grayscale Investments has announced the launch of the Grayscale Sui Trust, providing qualified investors an opportunity to gain exposure to the SUI token in the form of a security. The trust, designed for institutional-grade access, offers a simplified route for investors to participate in the SUI ecosystem without directly holding the digital asset.

Grayscale Sui Trust Opens for Accredited Investors Tracking SUI Price

According to a recent announcement on X, Grayscale Sui Trust is now available to eligible accredited investors. The trust provides a streamlined method for gaining exposure to SUI, a third-generation blockchain that focuses on scalability and transaction cost efficiency.

As of December 18, 2024, the Grayscale Sui Trust manages assets worth $12.88 million, with a net asset value of $65.52 per share. Shares of the trust will reflect the SUI price after accounting for fees and expenses. This offers investors a convenient alternative to directly purchasing and storing the token.

Moreover, the Grayscale Sui Trust tracks the SUI price, which has surged by over 500% this year. SUI operates on a decentralized blockchain network, enabling peer-to-peer transactions recorded on a public ledger. This growth has elevated SUI to the ninth-largest blockchain by total value locked (TVL) in its DeFi ecosystem.

However, challenges remain. Recent data shows that SUI DeFi TVL has fallen to 385 million SUI from a peak of 730 million in September. Despite this decline in terms of SUI, dollar-denominated TVL growth has persisted, largely due to the rising SUI price.

Tracking Development Metrics and Ecosystem Growth

However, the SUI network’s developer activity has seen a decline. Commit activity, an indicator of developer engagement has dropped to 950 in December, compared to a peak of 5,300 in May 2023. The number of active core developers has also decreased from a yearly high of 86 to 44.

Despite this, the SUI Trust ecosystem shows positive trends. The stablecoin volume on the network now exceeds $377 million. Decentralized exchanges such as Cetus, Bluefin, and DeepBook are reporting strong transaction volumes, reflecting continued user interest.

The launch of Grayscale Sui Trust represents a milestone in providing institutional-grade access to SUI. While challenges persist, the trust’s introduction may help drive interest in the SUI ecosystem, potentially influencing SUI price trends.

However, despite the announcement of Grayscale Sui Trust’s launch, SUI price has dropped 12% over the past 24 hours to $4.13. Market capitalization stands at $12.09 billion, while trading volume surged 108.96% to $3.1 billion.

Meanwhile, Grayscale Investments has taken advantage of the recent Litecoin (LTC) price dip by increasing its holdings. Data from CoinGlass reveals that Grayscale purchased 2,230 LTC on Thursday, adding to its 30-day accumulation of over 41,100 coins. The company’s total Litecoin holdings are now valued at more than $220 million.

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Bitwise CIO Matt Hougan has commented on Ethereum’s evolving position in the blockchain ecosystem, predicting that the platform could outperform Solana in 2025. According to Hougan, Ethereum’s reputation as slow and expensive is becoming outdated as advancements in its ecosystem address these challenges.

Bitwise CIO Predicts Ethereum Layer-2 Growth Will Outpace Solana by 2025

According to a recent tweet by Bitwise CIO Matt Hougan, Ethereum Layer-2 networks are transforming the platform’s reputation and usability. Hougan noted that Ethereum’s advancements in scalability and user experience rival those of Solana, traditionally recognized for its ease of use.

Moreover, Hougan highlighted projects like Clanker and Virtuals, AI-driven applications thriving on Ethereum Base network. These developments demonstrate Ethereum’s ability to support innovative, user-friendly solutions while maintaining its robust infrastructure. This shift is pivotal for ETH as it aims to combine institutional-grade credibility with improved accessibility for everyday users.

Matt Hougan added, 

“If Ethereum can retain its institutional bona fides but level up ease-of-use, 2025 will be a good year indeed. It’s the Layer-2 network thesis playing out in real-time.”

Despite the competition between Ethereum and Solana blockchains, VanEck predicted new all-time highs for both assets by 2025. Ethereum is projected to surpass $6,000, driven by Layer-2 growth and staking integration, while Solana is forecast to exceed $500 due to its scalability and adoption in DeFi and NFTs. VanEck also expects Bitcoin to reach $180,000, fueled by U.S. adoption and corporate holdings.

Layer-2 Networks Propel Accessibility

Ethereum’s evolution is largely driven by its top Layer-2 solutions, such as Base, Optimism, and Arbitrum. These solutions address long-standing issues of scalability and high transaction costs. Bitwise CIO Matt Hougan emphasized the importance of these networks in making  Ethereum ecosystem competitive with platforms like Solana.

By leveraging Layer-2 technology, Ethereum provides a more seamless experience for developers and users. This advancement positions the platform as a hub for projects that require both scalability and affordability. Bitwise CIO predicts that this Layer-2-driven transformation will drive Ethereum’s growth in 2025.

Moreover, Ethereum’s infrastructure is favored for projects in artificial intelligence (AI) and decentralized finance (DeFi). With a growing number of applications leveraging its infrastructure, Ethereum continues to demonstrate its versatility. Bitwise CIO believes this adaptability strengthens Ethereum’s position as a leader in blockchain technology.

While Ethereum makes strides in accessibility and innovation, Solana recently overtook it as the leading ecosystem for new developers. According to Electric Capital, Solana experienced an 83% year-on-year growth in monthly active developers, ending Ethereum’s eight-year dominance in this metric.

Despite Solana’s achievements, Bitwise CIO Matt Hougan remains confident in Ethereum’s trajectory.

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BlackRock asset manager has made history by purchasing municipal bonds issued exclusively through blockchain technology. This transaction was facilitated through the exchange-traded fund (ETF), iShares Short Maturity Municipal Bond Active ETF (MEAR). The move marks a pivotal step in the municipal bond market’s integration with blockchain platforms. It signals a shift toward innovative, tech-driven financial services.

BlackRock ETF Makes History With Blockchain for Municipal Bond Transactions

According to Bloomberg, BlackRock’s MEAR ETF invested $6.5 million in municipal bonds issued by the city of Quincy, Massachusetts. The bonds were facilitated through JPMorgan Chase & Co.’s private blockchain-based platform. This transaction marks the first time municipal debt has been purchased, settled, and held exclusively on blockchain technology.

In April, JPMorgan developed a permissioned blockchain application to enable seamless transactions for the municipal bonds. BlackRock’s investment through MEAR underscores the potential for blockchain technology to improve the efficiency of traditional financial markets. This development will pave the way for broader adoption of blockchain in municipal finance.

More so, the shift toward blockchain adoption will streamline operations and address cost inefficiencies in the bond market. 

Quincy Municipal Bonds Set the Stage for Blockchain Capital Markets

The issuance of Quincy’s municipal bonds marks a new era for the capital markets, leveraging blockchain technology. JPMorgan’s blockchain platform enabled faster settlements and enhanced transaction security.

AdditionnalyThe blockchain-based approach will mitigate risks associated with traditional systems while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

BlackRock updated the MEAR ETF’s prospectus to permit investments in municipal bonds settled on JPMorgan’s Digital Debt Service platform. However, the updated filing disclosed potential risks, including liquidity concerns and the possibility of errors in the blockchain platform’s underlying code. Despite these challenges, the move represents a critical step in applying blockchain technology into the municipal bond ecosystem.

BlackRock’s entry into blockchain-based municipal bonds is part of a broader trend in the financial industry. A handful of issuers and underwriters have been exploring blockchain’s potential in municipal markets. For example, the Michigan State University board of trustees recently considered a similar deal using Goldman Sachs’ proprietary digital assets platform.

Meanwhile, Goldman Sachs plans to spin out its blockchain-based digital assets platform into a new independent company within 12-18 months. The platform will simplify the creation, trading, and settlement of financial instruments using blockchain

In a parallel development, BlackRock’s Bitcoin ETF (IBIT) assets under management reached $57.8 billion within its first year. This figure is more than BlackRock’s gold ETF, iShares Gold Trust, which took 20 years to amass $33 billion in assets.

Chairman of MicroStrategy, Michael Saylor, emphasized Bitcoin’s growing dominance as an inflation hedge, describing it as “digital gold.” He noted that the rapid adoption of Bitcoin ETFs reflects a shift in institutional preferences toward digital assets.

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Germany’s Deutsche Bank is set to address compliance hurdles associated with public blockchain technology through the development of a Layer 2 protocol. Announced as part of Project Dama 2, this initiative will integrate blockchain efficiency with regulatory requirements, bridging traditional financial services (TradFi) and decentralized technology.

Germany’s Deutsche Bank Develops Layer 2 to Enhance Blockchain Efficiency

According to a recent Bloomberg report, Deutsche Bank has introduced Project Dama 2, an innovative solution to improve the compliance and efficiency of blockchain technology. The initiative is part of the Monetary Authority of Singapore’s (MAS) Project Guardian, which encourages financial institutions to explore asset tokenization.

Project Dama 2 incorporates Layer 2 protocol designed to operate and impact public blockchains like Ethereum. By leveraging ZKsync technology, the solution will reduce transaction costs and improve efficiency, aligning blockchain operations with regulatory standards.

Additionally, Boon-Hiong Chan, the Asia-Pacific innovation lead for applied industry at Deutsche Bank added,

“Using two chains, a number of these regulatory concerns should be able to be satisfied. This approach allows us to create a more curated and compliant framework while leveraging the benefits of public blockchain networks.”

Compliance Risks Addressed by Layer 2 Solution

Public blockchains present challenges such as unknowingly interacting with illicit actors or sanctioned entities. Deutsche Bank aims to overcome these obstacles with a curated list of validators that comply with stringent standards. This curated approach reduces the risks associated with blockchain transactions while maintaining the scalability and interoperability of public blockchain networks.

To further enhance compliance, the platform introduces “super admin rights” exclusively for regulators. The feature provides oversight authorities with tools to scrutinize fund movements. This offers an additional layer of transparency and trust in transactions.

Collaboration has been key to the development of Project Dama 2. Deutsche Bank has partnered with firms such as Memento Blockchain Pte. and Interop Labs to integrate advanced technologies like ZKsync. This collaboration aligns the platform with regulatory requirements while addressing the operational needs of financial institutions.

The bank plans to release a minimum viable product (MVP) for Project Dama 2 in 2025, pending regulatory approval. If successful, this initiative could serve as a model for other institutions exploring the integration of blockchain technology in traditional finance.

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Layer 1 blockchain project Avalanche has successfully raised $250 million through a locked token sale. This signals strong support from prominent investors such as Galaxy Digital, Dragonfly, and ParaFi Capital. The funds will be allocated toward advancing the Avalanche9000 upgrade, which will enhance the scalability and affordability of blockchain development. Consequently, Avalanche’s native token, AVAX, experienced a surge in price, rising by over 14% in 24 hours to $54.52.

Avalanche Raises $250M for Avalanche9000 Upgrade as AVAX Price Surges 14%

Following Avalanche’s announcement of a $250 million funding round, led by Galaxy Digital, Dragonfly, and ParaFi Capital, the blockchain project has boosted its position in the top Layer 1 projects. The locked token sale involves a vesting period, ensuring long-term alignment with participating investors. Among those joining the round are SkyBridge, Republic Capital, Morgan Creek Digital, and several other institutional backers.

The funds will be used to support the Avalanche9000 upgrade, currently in its testnet phase. This upgrade is engineered to make blockchain deployment and transaction execution more cost-efficient. According to the project, deployment costs could drop by 99.9%, and transaction costs by 25 times.

The managing partner, Dragonfly, Haseeb Qureshi, expressed excitement stating,

“We’re excited to triple down on our support for Avalanche as the network continues to push the boundaries of scalability, speed, and innovation in the blockchain space.”

Avalanche9000 Upgrade Drives Blockchain Adoption

The Avalanche9000 upgrade is a pivotal step in Avalanche’s roadmap. Launched in testnet with over $40 million in retroactive rewards for developers, the upgrade will make Avalanche a leading platform for purpose-built blockchains. It provides developers with customizable virtual machines and faster transaction finality to support various use cases.

The platform already hosts over 500 Layer 1 chains spanning sectors like gaming, tokenized real-world assets, decentralized finance (DeFi), and loyalty programs. Projects such as DeFi Kingdoms, Dexalot, and Lamina1 have chosen its scalability and efficient architecture. The upcoming mainnet launch on December 16 will attract more developer interest.

AVAX Price Climbs 15% Following Funding News

The news of securing $250 million sparked an immediate rally in the native AVAX price. The token surged by 15%, reaching $54.52 within 24 hours, as traders reacted positively to the project’s progress. This price movement reflects growing confidence in Avalanche’s ability to scale its blockchain network and attract institutional participation.

Additionally, Avalanche price continues to gain momentum, with its AVAX becoming the 11th cryptocurrency by market cap. More so, with a 100% surge in November, analysts suggest a rally toward $70 as adoption increases.

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Circle has announced the upcoming launch of its USDC stablecoin and Cross-Chain Transfer Protocol (CCTP) on the Aptos blockchain. This move marks a new phase in Aptos’ evolution as a scalable layer-1 blockchain designed for diverse Web3 applications.

Concurrently, Stripe will integrate Aptos into its crypto payment products, enabling businesses and individuals to convert fiat currencies into USDC and vice versa. This development will expand the accessibility of stablecoin payments across global markets.

Circle USDC and CCTP Set To Streamline Transactions on Aptos

According to a recent blog post, Circle will issue USDC natively on Aptos, eliminating the need for bridged versions. Native issuance ensures better efficiency and security for the blockchain’s growing DeFi ecosystem. Developers will also gain access to CCTP, which allows cross-chain transfers between Aptos and other blockchains, including Ethereum, Solana, Arbitrum, and Base.

Bridged USDC currently dominates Aptos’ stablecoin usage, with $160 million in circulation. However, the transition to native USDC will phase out bridged versions over time. To manage this shift, the bridged version will be renamed “lzUSDC,” and liquidity will gradually be migrated to the native USDC. Existing bridge providers, such as LayerZero, will facilitate the transition smoothly, ensuring continued operations for users and applications.

Reacting to the update, the Co-founder and CEO of Circle, Jeremy Allaire, added, 

“USDC + CCTP + Aptos = high-performance, very powerful programmable money infrastructure.  Excited for the upcoming launch!”

Stripe Integration Enhances Fiat-to-Stablecoin Transactions

Stripe’s integration with Aptos will enable users to convert fiat currencies like USD directly into USDC and vice versa through Aptos-enabled wallets. This feature will benefit global merchants by allowing them to process transactions more securely, quickly, and cheaply.

With the addition of Aptos to Stripe’s crypto products, businesses can leverage stablecoin payments to expand their operations globally. This partnership bridges traditional finance with blockchain technology. Simultaneously, it offers a streamlined solution for cross-border payments and enables widespread adoption of Circle’s stablecoin within the Stripe ecosystem.

In addition, beyond its initiatives with Aptos, Circle is preparing for an expansion into Hong Kong. The company aims to establish a local presence by applying for a license under the region’s upcoming stablecoin regulations. Hong Kong’s pro-crypto environment, including same-day USD settlements, positions it as a strategic hub for operations in Asia.

As part of its broader growth strategy, the stablecoin issuer is also exploring other Asia-Pacific markets, including Australia. These initiatives come as the company prepares for its highly anticipated IPO.

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Goldman Sachs is preparing to spin out its digital assets platform into a new company focused on leveraging blockchain technology for large financial institutions. According to Mathew McDermott, Goldman’s global head of Digital Assets, the platform leverages blockchain to enhance efficiency. 

More so, the platform will streamline the creation, trading, and settlement of financial instruments. The spin-out process, still in its early stages, is expected to be executed within the next 12 to 18 months, subject to regulatory approvals.

Goldman Sachs Plans Blockchain Platform Spin-Out

According to recent reports, Goldman Sachs intends to establish an independent company to operate its digital assets platform. The platform will use blockchain technology to facilitate financial transactions. Consequently, the initiative will create an industry-owned platform enabling financial institutions to issue, trade, and settle assets like bonds and cash efficiently. 

Mathew McDermott, global head of Digital Assets at Goldman, confirmed the plans noting,

“If you are trying to build out a scalable marketplace, you want to have the right strategic participants embracing this technology. You want a number that is nimble enough to operate, driven by the commercial use cases.” 

The bank’s timeline for the spin-out spans 12 to 18 months, contingent on regulatory approvals. While the company will manage the transition, it also plans to enhance the platform’s capabilities and develop new commercial use cases, making it more appealing to market participants.

Tradeweb Joins As First Partner

Tradeweb Markets Inc. has been announced as the first strategic partner for Goldman Sachs’ digital-assets platform. The collaboration will focus on creating innovative commercial use cases, further strengthening the platform’s utility for financial firms. 

Additionally, the partnership reflects a growing trend among large institutions to integrate blockchain technology into traditional financial systems.

The inclusion of external stakeholders will make the platform industry-neutral and scalable, addressing concerns from firms reluctant to engage in systems developed solely by competitors. Goldman has emphasized the importance of attracting strategic participants to ensure the platform’s success in areas like tokenizing funds for collateral use.

In addition to the planned spin-out, Goldman Sachs is enhancing its digital asset offerings. The bank is exploring secondary transactions in private digital asset companies. This will provide liquidity options for family offices and other clients. According to McDermott, the approach will allow buyers to capitalize on private market discounts.

Moreover, Goldman is preparing to resume Bitcoin-backed lending services, reflecting its commitment to offering comprehensive financial solutions in the digital asset space. The company’s digital assets platform, initially launched in 2022, has already supported transactions such as issuing bonds for the European Investment Bank.

The planned spin-out aligns with Goldman Sachs’ history of separating internally developed software platforms. Past examples include REDI Technologies in 2013 and Simon, a structured investments marketplace, in subsequent years. This approach has allowed the bank to scale innovative technologies while maintaining its core team and expertise.

More so, the new entity will integrate blockchain into mainstream financial systems by addressing inefficiencies in asset trading and settlement. The venture follows a recent $718 million investment in Bitcoin ETFs, signaling growing institutional interest. This includes significant stakes in BlackRock iShares Bitcoin Trust and Grayscale GBTC, highlighting the increasing embrace of crypto by traditional finance.

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At Devcon 2024 in Bangkok, Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin outlined the platform’s advancements and his vision for its future, focusing on decentralization, scalability, and inclusivity. In his keynote, Buterin presented Ethereum as the “world computer,” a foundational platform for a diverse digital economy.

Vitalik Buterin Unveils Ethereum Future at Devcon 2024

In a keynote address at Devcon 2024 in Bangkok, Vitalik Buterin shared insights into the evolving Ethereum Network and his goals for its development. Describing Ethereum as the “world computer,” he emphasized its role in fostering a global, decentralized economy that supports a vast on-chain ecosystem. 

Buterin’s speech highlighted Ethereum journey from its inception to becoming a foundational technology for diverse applications. This positions the platform as a secure, inclusive, and scalable infrastructure for the digital world.

More so, Vitalik Buterin highlighted that Ethereum transition from Proof of Work (PoW) to Proof of Stake (PoS) was a key milestone. The shift reduced the platform’s energy consumption and reinforced its security and decentralization. 

Layer 2 Solutions Transform Accessibility and Affordability

Vitalik Buterin has also talked about Layer 2 roll up of ethereum which enhances scalability of Ethereum Network. He said that Layer 2 technologies like Optimistic Rollups and ZK Rollups allow the network to accommodate a large number of transactions because they can happen off-chain and then complete on the Ethereum mainnet. It is a way that Ethereum can continue to remain decentralized while providing for the faster and cheaper transactions.

For instance, Layer 2 fees have gone down from 50 cents to less than 0.1 cent, which opens up Ethereum for multiple uses. These lowered fees open new opportunities for developers and users. This cost reduction was critical for making the platform more accessible as scalability increases the number of potential users exponentially.

Additionally, Vitalik Buterin highlighted the advantages of Ethereum PoS model, which prioritizes security and inclusivity. PoS enhances Ethereum resilience, making it less reliant on energy-intensive mining and more accessible to a broader community of participants. Buterin noted that Ethereum’s PoS framework is integral to creating an equitable system, allowing for more decentralized control over the platform.

These developments come as the Ethereum co-founder responded to critiques recently, emphasizing a vision for cohesive, seamless interactions across Layer 2 networks. 

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Binance Chain has secured a $10 million investment in cloud service credits from Google Cloud to bolster the development of projects within its Most Valuable Builder (MVB) Program. This collaboration will accelerate the progress of over 40 projects by providing resources necessary for growth in key technology areas like artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing. 

Binance Chain Secures $10M Google Cloud Credits to Boost MVB Program Projects

In a recent announcement, Binance Chain revealed its partnership with Google Cloud’s Web3 Startups Program, to advance blockchain development within its ecosystem. Through this alliance, Binance Chain will gain access to $10 million in cloud service credits. This will be dedicated to supporting over 40 projects participating in its MVB Program. 

More so, the investment will allow emerging projects to leverage Google Cloud’s AI and cloud computing resources.

The MVB Program has grown into a vital accelerator for blockchain-focused projects. This new funding provides additional opportunities for project teams to scale their operations and enhance their offerings. Each MVB project can apply for up to $350,000 in Google Cloud credits, with additional support available based on project needs and technological focus.

Google Cloud’s Web3 Startups Program 

Google Cloud’s Web3 Startups Program offers Binance Chain a unique advantage through cloud credits and development support. Under this program, AI-focused Web3 projects within BNB Chain’s MVB ecosystem may receive up to $350,000 in cloud credits over two years, while non-AI-related projects can access up to $200,000. This approach allows participating projects to focus on AI innovation while receiving specialized resources.

The MVB Program, now in its eighth season, aims to cultivate high-potential Web3 applications for long-term success. The partnership with Google Cloud will bridge blockchain with cutting-edge cloud technologies.

Additionally, the MVB Program plays a role in supporting developers and founders who are building decentralized applications. Designed as a four-week intensive program, MVB connects project teams with Binance Labs and CMC Labs. This will offer comprehensive guidance on development and scaling strategies. The program’s eighth season features over 40 projects focusing on DeFi, the Metaverse, NFTs, and gaming.

The addition of Google Cloud credits will increase the viability of projects within the program by providing tools essential for growth.

Notably, the Binance Chain ecosystem has become a hub for decentralized applications, boasting over 4,000 dApps across various sectors. This includes DeFi protocols, Metaverse experiences, NFT marketplaces, and blockchain games, all driven by an active community. The infrastructure provided by Binance Chain will support a large user base that fuels liquidity for these applications.

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JPMorgan has rolled out a significant upgrade to its blockchain platform, and as part of this effort, the company is rebranding it from Onyx to Kinexys.

The bank also revealed plans to introduce on-chain foreign exchange capabilities on the Kinexys platform by Q1 2025. This new feature is expected to enable automation of 24/7, near real-time multicurrency clearing and settlement, further enhancing the platform’s functionality.

JPMorgan’s Blockchain Unit Rebrands as Kinexys

JPMorgan has renamed its blockchain platform from Onyx to Kinexys. The rebranding came as the banking behemoth throws its weight behind the tokenization of real-world assets. Umar Farooq, Co-Head of JPMorgan Payments, pointed to the company’s objective of shifting beyond the constraints of traditional technology. The goal is to create the full potential of a multichain world.

Farooq emphasized that JPMorgan wants an increasingly connected ecosystem, tearing down fragmented systems. It also wants to improve interoperability, and helpe the financial infrastructure overcome its limitations as it stands today.

The tokenization of real-world assets, including traditional financial instruments, has become a fast-growing focus within blockchain technology.

Central banks are ramping up their involvement in this particular focus area. JPMorgan was an early front-runner in that space with Onyx and its blockchain-based settlement technology, the JPM Coin. The system has now been rebranded to Kinexys Digital Payments.

JPMorgan’s Kinexys to Introduce On-Chain FX in Q1 2025

JPMorgan reportedly said the blockchain business had processed more than $1.5 trillion of transactions since its launch in 2020. This includes intraday repos and cross-border payments at an average daily transaction volume of more than $2 billion. Its customers include Siemens, BlackRock, and Ant International.

The bank also announced the introduction of on-chain foreign exchange capabilities on the platform by Q1 2025. It said it would achieve “automation of 24/7, near real-time multicurrency clearing and settlement.” The service will initially handle the US dollar and euro, with other currencies expected later.

JPMorgan believes this indicates increasing transaction volumes, client adoption, and product expansion by the bank. This places it in an excellent position to accelerate the integration of blockchain technology and tokenization into TradFi.

A Strategic Rebrand or a Distraction?

The recent rebranding of the blockchain platform of JPMorgan from Onyx to Kinexys raised many questions: Why now? It was announced on US election day and released in Singapore, raising speculation over why this strategic move had been made.

According to people familiar with the situation, one possible factor for a name change comes from a potential copyright issue with the Onyx name. Some have even pointed out that the timing becomes suspect, as it almost appears to have deliberately diverted the media’s attention from the political event.

While JPMorgan positions the rebranding as an enhancement of its blockchain platform for a strategic reason, the timing and motive encourage skepticism about whether this was the real reason for making the name change.

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VanEck asset management company has launched a new PYTH ETN product, extending its European offerings with a focus on the Solana-backed Pyth Network. This new product, listed on Euronext Amsterdam and Euronext Paris, aims to provide investors across 15 European countries with exposure to PYTH without requiring direct cryptocurrency holdings.

VanEck Rolls Out Solana-Powered PYTH ETN Across 15 European Countries

In a recent announcement, VanEck introduced the PYTH ETN to expand European access to the Pyth Network, a platform focused on delivering real-time financial data to blockchain systems. Listed on Euronext Amsterdam and Euronext Paris, this Exchange-Traded Note (ETN) allows investors from 15 European countries, including Austria, Switzerland, and Germany, to participate in the performance of PYTH without directly owning cryptocurrency.

The firm’s approach with this ETN will simplify crypto investments for traditional investors. These investors do not want to deal with the processes of purchasing, safekeeping, and protection of the tokens. More so, VanEck is responding to the increasing demand for the blockchain technology in Europe. It will leverage Solana-backed Pyth Network as a provider of high-quality first-party data sources.

Additionally, the investment firm incorporated secure storage solutions to manage the assets backing the PYTH ETN. In collaboration with Bank Frick, a Liechtenstein-regulated financial institution, VanEck ensures that all assets supporting the ETN are held in cold storage. This offline approach to asset management will protect investor funds against potential cyber threats.

The PYTH ETN follows the firm’s successful launch of similar products, including BTC and ETH ETNs. These products have consistently prioritized investor security while providing exposure to the evolving crypto market.

Focus on Crypto and AI Innovation

In parallel with the PYTH ETN launch, wealth manager recently established a venture fund, VanEck Ventures, to back innovative projects in the crypto and AI sectors. The $30 million fund is aimed at early-stage fintech and digital asset companies. It will promote stablecoin technologies, cross-border payments, and advanced blockchain solutions. 

The asset manager’s dual strategy combines new investment products like the PYTH ETN with funding for blockchain startups. This approach highlights its commitment to advancing crypto and blockchain technology in a fast-evolving market.

Following the recent announcement, Solana (SOL) price saw a slight rally, reaching $168 with a 4% increase in the past 24 hours. The trading volume surged as well, jumping by 16.95% to $3.08 billion, indicating heightened market interest. 

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Chainlink has announced a substantial upgrade to its platform with the introduction of the Chainlink Runtime Environment (CRE). This is aimed at expanding the platform capabilities across thousands of blockchains. Concurrently, the Chainlink news is a shift toward a more modular, flexible, and developer-friendly platform. 

The CRE is a foundational layer enabling developers to compose and execute custom workflows. It leverages decentralized oracle networks (DONs) to provide secure, reliable data feeds and support smart contract automation.

Chainlink Runtime Environment Boosts Flexibility for Web3 Developers

In recent Chainlink news, the cross-chain platform has introduced the Chainlink Runtime Environment (CRE) to enhance flexibility for developers working in the Web3 space. CRE enables modular, customizable workflows that span across various blockchains, removing the limitations of single-chain integrations. This architecture allows developers to select and combine reusable components such as data feeds and off-chain API connections into workflows that meet specific application requirements.

In addition, CRE leverages DONs to ensure reliable execution and data accuracy. The platform enables developers to compose workflows from multiple capabilities, allowing for advanced financial applications and greater cross-chain compatibility. CRE’s setup makes it particularly attractive to financial institutions seeking custom data feeds and risk models. This will expand Chainlink’s relevance in traditional finance markets.

Moreover, the decentralized Oracle network has adopted a phased approach to upgrade its platform architecture. It will start with transitioning services like the Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol (CCIP) to the new Chainlink Runtime Environment. This rollout strategy ensures uninterrupted service for existing Chainlink users. The platform’s shift to a modular framework allows capabilities to be reused across different workflows, optimizing network scalability.

More so, the Chainlink news aligns with market demands for more secure and reliable cross-chain applications. This gives developers and enterprises a powerful toolkit to implement multi-chain workflows seamlessly.

LINK Price 6% Rally Ahead of Recent Upgrades

Following the Chainlink news, its native token, LINK, rallied 6% over the last 24 hours. The price increase highlights growing market interest in Chainlink’s advancements and its potential for further adoption in the blockchain ecosystem. Analysts predict LINK price to rally targeting the $15 mark if it continues to build momentum.

Adding to its value, Chainlink recently partnered with the HBAR Foundation on Hedera to support DeFi development. This collaboration brings Chainlink’s data feeds and Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol (CCIP) to Hedera’s platform. 

Hence, the development provides developers on Hedera with reliable data and cross-chain capabilities for secure, decentralized applications. The integration demonstrates Chainlink’s expanding reach across diverse blockchain networks, driving adoption and LINK price gains.

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Ankr’s recent integration with The Open Network (TON) is creating excitement among developers and investors. The partnership, designed to facilitate decentralized application (dApp) development on TON, could impact Toncoin Price in the coming months.

With Ankr’s advanced Web3 API service now integrated, developers have streamlined access to the TON, positioning the network for substantial growth. As a result, many are speculating about how this development could influence Toncoin Price.

Ankr’s TON Blockchain Integration Could Boost Toncoin Price

Ankr’s integration with the TON Blockchain enables developers to build decentralized applications (dApps) with greater ease, especially within the Telegram ecosystem, which boasts over 950 million users. 

With Ankr’s Remote Procedure Calls (RPCs), developers no longer need to deploy or maintain their own blockchain nodes to access on-chain data. Instead, they can directly interact with TON’s network through pre-configured APIs. This simplifies the dApp creation process.

Additionally, Ankr’s TON RPCs will allow developers fetch real-time data, execute transactions, and manage TON wallet operations without the operational overhead of node maintenance. Consequently, Ankr is lowering the entry barriers for developers, making it easier to build high-performance dApps and digital assets. 

More so, the geo-distributed nature of these RPCs will ensure low latency and reliable connectivity. The streamlined access will attract more developers to build on the blockchain. This will drive further network activity and, in turn, influencing Toncoin Price.

Furthermore, the growing utility of the TON protocol is showcased by its rapid user adoption. Earlier this month, the Tegram Blockchain registered more than 11 million monthly active addresses, fueled by dApps, mini-apps, and gaming tokens.

Similarly, the increasing activity could directly influence the demand for Toncoin, as it remains the native token of the TON ecosystem. 

In addition, the partnership comes at a time when the TON Network has reached 100 million unique holders. This is a sharp increase from the 4.3 million holders recorded this year, illustrating the rapid adoption of the network. As more users join, Toncoin Price is expected to see more volatility and growth opportunities.

Will TON Price Reach $8?

At press time, Toncoin Price consolidates around $5 with a 0.65% 24 hour price surge. However, the growing demand for stablecoin transactions and the increasing utility of the TON Blockchain suggest that a price surge to $8 could be within reach. 

Recent data indicates that USDT transactions exceeded $300 million on the TON network have, underscoring the growing appeal of the platform.

Additionally, whale accumulation and a decline in exchange supply are positive indicators for Toncoin Price. With fewer tokens available on exchanges and more held in cold storage, the market could see reduced selling pressure. Hence, TON Price could break through current resistance levels and aim for an $8 breakout in the coming weeks.

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Aurum Equity Partners launched a $1 billion tokenized equity and debt fund on the XRP Ledger, an enterprise-grade blockchain network linked with Ripple.

The Fund will seek investments in data centers across the US, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, India, and Europe. It has been heavily promoted as the “world’s first combined equity and debt tokenized fund” that allows investors to engage in a hybrid model by utilizing both asset classes via blockchain technology.

Aurum Launches $1B Tokenized Fund on XRP Ledger.

Aurum Equity Partners unveiled the world’s first hybrid equity and debt tokenized $1 billion Fund, powered by Zoniqx’s asset tokenization technology.

This initiative leverages the XRP Ledger, a decentralized and open-source Layer 1 blockchain, to power real-world asset tokenization for data center investments.

NEW – Tokenization of assets is happening on the XRP Ledger!

Aurum Equity Partners Launches $1 Billion Tokenized Equity and Debt Fund Using Zoniqx and XRP Ledger Technology https://t.co/K7hhiV0Dt9#xrp #xrpl #xrpledger #tokenization #ripple pic.twitter.com/QThGUJGEAN

— Tony Edward (Thinking Crypto Podcast) (@ThinkingCrypto1) October 22, 2024

The project will set up data centers across key regions such as the United States, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, India, and Europe; therefore, this has been one of the major applications of blockchain in better managing and accessing conventionally illiquid assets such as private equity and debt.

This new launch marks a vital milestone in the growth trajectory of both the XRP Ledger and Ripple Labs, proving their ambition to tap into the growing RWA tokenization market.

More recently, institutional interest in exploring Blockchain applications for classical financial instruments such as bonds and equity, operating efficiently and offering faster settlements around the clock, has caught new attention. McKinsey, BCG, and other reports forecast RWA markets to grow to trillions of dollars over the coming years.

Stablecoin to Unlock Liquidity for Tokenized Assets

Ripple is waiting for the regulatory nod from New York State to introduce its stablecoin pegged with the US dollar. This motive is to raise liquidity and, further, tokenize and settle financial assets across its XRP Ledger XRPL network.

As Ripple Labs President Monica Long says, this is all about how this stablecoin would help institutions in their goal of better asset tokenization. This will also help regarding the company’s legal turmoil with the SEC. Just recently, the US SEC said it would proceed with its Ripple Lawsuit appeals.

David Schwartz, Ripple’s Chief Technology Officer, also pointed to private equity tokenization as a key emerging use case in real-world asset tokenization that drives such essential benefits as the fight against illiquidity and restricted access to these markets.

He explained:

“Using XRPL’s ability to process transactions efficiently and securely, Aurum and Zoniqx show how real-world assets can be managed more effectively by harnessing a decentralized blockchain.”

Indeed, the functionality offered by XRPL means companies like Aurum and Zoniqx are showing how blockchain can make managing real-world assets easier.

XRP Reaches 30 Million MetaMask Users

The XRP Ledger is a decentralized, layer-1 blockchain that has been touted in the market for more than ten years with its reputation for reliability and stability. It has the ease of tokenization and exchange for both crypto-natives and real-world assets in mind.

For its robust and institutional-grade functionality, XRPL embeds features that facilitate secure, efficient, and scalable financial services.

During a $200M XRP transfer, Ripple recently revealed that the XRP Ledger partnered with MetaMask, a Web3 wallet service. By integrating XRPL Snap, MetaMask users can now engage with the Ledger from their wallets. 

The integration should enable the Ledger to share MetaMask’s 30 million monthly active users, making XRP and the XRPL more accessible to developers and the retail audience. 

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Charles Hoskinson has said that the Cardano network will become “larger” than Bitcoin and Ethereum and provided a timeline for when this will happen. This came as the Cardano founder also made a case for why his network has an edge over other layer-1 networks, especially with the Voltaire era, which has ushered in decentralized governance on the network.

Charles Hoskinson Reveals When Cardano Will Flip Bitcoin And Ethereum

The Cardano founder mentioned that his network would become larger than Ethereum ten years from now and larger than Bitcoin in another decade. Charles Hoskinson added that most governments will run on their infrastructure a decade after this happens. He made these statements at the Cardano summit in Argentina, which just kicked off.

Cardano becoming larger than Bitcoin and Ethereum will translate to the ADA price, flipping the BTC and ETH prices. That undoubtedly looks impossible for now, considering that ADA is currently the eleventh-largest crypto by market cap. At the same time, BTC and ETH are the first and second largest cryptos by market cap.

However, Charles Hoskinson is confident that it will eventually happen based on his belief that Cardano has superior technology to these other networks. He recently mentioned that Cardano is number 1 while remarking that the gap between the network and other networks isn’t close, especially with the network’s decentralized governance and the amazing roadmap items on the horizon.

Why Decentralized Governance Matters A Lot

Charles Hoskinson provided more insights into why Cardano’s decentralized governance matters. He said that with onchain governance, they have everything they will need to solve any problem. He added that this is why they aren’t focused on marketing but rather looking to build a true community that will also help market the network.

The Cardano founder also suggested that they were playing the long game rather than focusing on instant success. He said they want to build a network everyone can trust, including world governments. He emphasized that true decentralization brings about trust, which will help eliminate intermediaries and global firms that currently control all the narratives.

This is why Charles Hoskinson believes the Voltaire era is significant for the Cardano network and puts it above every other layer-1 network. Hoskinson also used the opportunity to shade networks, which venture capitalists fund. He indicated bowing to VC funding contradicts the whole purpose of blockchain technology. He remarked that most of these networks are centralized, as only a few run validator nodes on them.

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SingularityDAO, Cogito Finance, and SelfKey have announced a strategic merger to form Singularity Finance. This new entity will enhance the tokenization of the artificial intelligence economy through a specialized Layer-2 network. The unified platform will introduce the SFI token as its core network token, consolidating the three existing tokens, SDAO, CGV, and KEY, into a single currency to streamline transactions and governance within the ecosystem.

SingularityDAO, Cogito, SelfKey Merge to Form Singularity Finance, SDAO Price Rally 19%

The collaboration between SingularityDAO, Cogito Finance, and SelfKey has resulted in the creation of Singularity Finance. This platform will transform the AI sector by tokenizing real-world assets and integrating AI into the decentralized finance (DeFi) landscape. 

Moreover, the merger leverages each company’s strengths to create a robust Layer-2 solution on the Ethereum blockchain. It aims to democratize access to AI technologies and financial products. Following the merger announcement, SingularityDAO’s token, SDAO price, experienced a significant uptick, rising 19% to a trading price of $0.34.

The new entity will deploy Cogito’s advanced tokenization frameworks as the merger progresses. SelfKey’s identity solutions will also be integrated to ensure compliant user participation. This strategy will offer enhanced liquidity and improved access to AI-driven financial tools.

Token Consolidation and Future Plans

In addition, the creation of Singularity Finance will consolidate SDAO, CGV, and KEY into the new SFI token. This move will unify the economic structure of the merged entities and simplify the user experience across its platforms. 

However, the token conversion will take place based on different ratios, with consideration on the trading history of each tokens. In particular, the SDAO tokens will be exchanged for SFI at 1:80.353, CGV at 1:10.890, and for KEY token at 1:1 ratio. Selling of the SFI token will commence on the Ethereum and BNB Chain, but the expansion will be done on other blockchains after the mainnet scheduled for early 2025.

Before these changes occur some form of governance will be put in place to addresses them. As such, token holders will exercise their voting rights in several rounds of voting to take place before the end of October. This will create a community-based approach in the new financial environment.

Moreover, the merger will introduce decentralized marketplaces and financial instruments that leverage Artificial Intelligence to optimize asset management, risk assessment, and investment strategies. More so, Singularity Finance will facilitate the tokenization of physical assets like GPUs and extend to computational resources and AI models, thereby broadening the scope of assets available onchain.

SingularityDAO will revolutionize AI and DeFi through this merger, paving the way for a tokenized future in artificial intelligence.

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‘Off the Grid’, a battle royale shooter, first came out as early access but quickly became one of the top-grossing free-to-play blockchain games on the Epic Games Store but there are many new things one should know about.

The game takes a center approach to blockchain gaming first, bringing premium gameplay over incentivized token mechanics. Integrating blockchain into the game will complement the game and not be the main attraction.

Minting in-game assets such as weapons and skins as NFTs on Avalanche’s AVAX subnet GUNZ ensures players’ ownership of those assets. This allows them to participate in secondary markets, making the items not only valuable inside the game but also tradable.

‘Off the Grid’ – What is It All About?

‘Off the Grid’ uses blockchain technology through an Avalanche AVAX subnet called GUNZ, which would create an independent blockchain ecosystem for minting NFTs representing in-game items such as weapons and skins. Since the Epic announced the game, AVAX price grew by more than 9% in a week.

Developed by Gunzilla Games and built on the Avalanche blockchain, this game blends a more old-school take on battle royale with blockchain, offering something different and grabbing the attention of both gamers and the crypto community.

Since it was minted on-chain, the game gave players ownership of these items in return. This would, in turn, create a way for trading in secondary markets. This adds value and ownership beyond standard in-game purchases. This is because assets are transferable and can be profitable for the owners.

That is a big deal, as the game is an AAA title – the blockbuster equivalent of movies within gaming. This also represents a pivot from the current model Web3 gaming. Other games were usually focusing more on token rewards than the actual gameplay.

Traditional blockchain games have been under the wrong name for giving rewards that convince people to start playing but only for the rewards, thus seeing a sharp drop in user count shortly after the airdrop. At the same time, ‘Off the Grid’ places its sound gaming experience first and foremost, while blockchain features support the ecosystem, not drive it.

Blockchain Gaming to Focus on Gameplay, Not Tokens

The design choice also reflects industry leaders’ calls for blockchain games to focus on an engaging gameplay experience, leveraging tokenization to enhance gameplay rather than as a primary driver. However, tangles in joining crypto wallets, for instance, are yet to be overcome for increased blockchain game adoption.

In fact, a survey conducted by Elympics, the Blockchain Game Alliance, and PlayToEarn revealed that over 10% of surveyed individuals have never tried blockchain gaming, which may suggest that smoothing user onboarding is probably key to the growth of blockchain gaming.

‘Off the Grid’ is working to make blockchain gaming more appealing and sustainable, working on a more gaming-first approach over incentivized token mechanics.

Overcoming Barriers to Blockchain Gaming Adoption

Since its release, ‘Off the Grid’ has been sitting at the top of the Epic Games Store’s Most Popular Free-to-Play PC Games list, beating several of Epic’s smash hits. It also topped the trending list, showing how well-received the game was. On Twitch, the title is performing equally as well, as roughly 148,000 viewers were online this past Friday, making it the most-watched game on the service.

So, as of now, early access only supports limited content, such as one map and game mode, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. Although the in-game economy based on GUNZ tokens has been implemented, the key features of blockchain, such as NFT-based rare items and weapons, have yet to be fully integrated.

A considerable part of ‘Off the Grid’ recent rapid rise has involved an enormous marketing push: gameplay clips flooding social media, many tagged with #OTGpartner, and streams featuring popular streamers like Matthew “Nadeshot” Haag.

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