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Why Telegram’s Tap-to-Earn Segment Is Winning Investors

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1 week ago

September 9, 2024

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The rapid rise of tap-to-earn games on Telegram, powered by The Open Network (TON) blockchain, has attracted significant attention — and funding — from venture capitalists. Investors are making substantial bets on Telegram’s tap-to-earn games like Notcoin, Hamster Kombat, and Catizen, seeing them as the future of Web3 gaming.

But what exactly is driving these investment decisions, and how do investors envision the future of tap-to-earn? BeInCrypto recently interviewed Animoca Brands, one of the biggest TON validators, and Hashkey Capital, which has made significant investments and formed partnerships with Catizen.

Undeniably, one of the key reasons venture capitalists are drawn to Telegram’s tap-to-earn ecosystem is its vast and engaged user base. With 950 million active users as of July 2024, the platform offers an unparalleled audience for developers looking to launch and scale games. This kind of organic reach dramatically reduces user acquisition costs, which is a major selling point for investors.

Furthermore, its crypto-native infrastructure sets Telegram apart from other platforms in the Web3 gaming space. The integration of TON blockchain allows for seamless transactions, reducing friction between the gaming experience and the user’s wallet. This ease of use is a significant draw for both developers and investors, as it allows instant monetization without the hurdles typically associated with blockchain adoption.

“Telegram is one of the few platforms where Web3 mechanics are baked into the experience. The ability to move from gameplay to crypto transactions without leaving the app is a huge competitive edge,” Junbo Yang, Investment Manager at Hashkey Capital, explains.

For investors, this integrated experience makes Telegram a prime candidate for further investment. The platform’s low transaction fees, scalability, and growing list of mini-apps ensure that developers can continue to innovate and retain users without the technical barriers that often plague Web3 adoption.

As TON ecosystem and tap-to-earn games grow, investors remain optimistic about the future of this segment. For instance, Hamster Kombat alone has attracted over 300 million users across 190 countries, with its upcoming HMSTR airdrop poised to be one of the largest in the crypto space.

Read more: What Is Hamster Kombat?

Meanwhile, Catizen has successfully built a loyal user base while optimizing its monetization strategy. Likewise, Notcoin attracted over 40 million global users and executed one of the year’s largest airdrops, solidifying its position as a key player in TON ecosystem.

Both Hashkey Capital and Animoca Brands see the success of these games as just the beginning. They believe as developers improve game mechanics, they will also discover new ways to retain users, moving beyond simple rewards to social and immersive experiences.

Why Telegram Could Drive the Next Web3 Boom?

Furthermore, the investors view these games as a proof of concept, demonstrating the scalability of the tap-to-earn model and its ability to retain users beyond initial incentives. This success reveals significant potential for growth and expansion within the tap-to-earn sphere.

In a recent exclusive interview with BeInCrypto, Yat Siu, the co-founder and executive chairman of Animoca Brands, strongly advocated integrating blockchain gaming into Telegram. He sees that the built-in audience allows games to scale quickly without costly marketing campaigns—a crucial factor for venture capitalists eyeing high returns.

“The next 100 to 200 million users in Web3 will come from Telegram and its gaming ecosystem,” Siu remarks.

Investors are primarily focused on three factors: user acquisition, scalability, and retention. However, they are also particularly excited about the potential for long-term monetization. Catizen, for example, stands out for its ability to retain users and optimize their lifetime value (LTV), showcasing sustainable growth and a profitable tap-to-earn model.

Junbo Yang highlights how Catizen and similar games set the stage for future development by prioritizing monetization and long-term user engagement.

“The early success of Catizen in monetizing its user base offers a blueprint for how other developers can scale their games,” Yang notes.

These investors’ perspectives align with the game teams’ long-term visions. In an email to BeInCrypto, the Hamster Kombat team revealed their plan to evolve into a multi-game platform.

“After the first airdrop, we will launch the second season with a massive expansion, allowing players to choose from multiple games to play. This begins the transformation of Hamster Kombat from a game into a gaming platform, similar to how Valve moved on from launching cult-status games to Steam, the largest game marketplace for PCs,” they elaborated.

Turning Setbacks into Growth: Why Investors Remain Optimistic Despite TON’s Hiccups

While the tap-to-earn model has proven its ability to attract users, the key challenge is keeping them engaged beyond initial airdrops and rewards. Some critics have raised concerns about mercenary users—those who join games solely to earn tokens—but investors see this as a short-term challenge.

However, investors believe that as developers increasingly adopt the tap-to-earn model, they will also find ways to extend user lifecycles, enhancing its sustainability. Yat Siu believes that the tap-to-earn model, while currently reward-driven, is laying the foundation for a much larger gaming ecosystem.

“Tap-to-earn is just the beginning. Once users enter the ecosystem, the goal is to build community and social experiences that keep them engaged for reasons beyond just token rewards,” Siu argues.

In addition to the sustainability concerns, the Telegram ecosystem has faced recent challenges. For instance, earlier in August, BeInCrypto reported that TON blockchain experienced an outage, temporarily halting block production for several hours. This incident raised concerns about the network’s ability to handle future surges in activity, especially with the increasing number of users participating in tap-to-earn games.

Addressing the issue, Yat Siu acknowledged the outage but remained confident in TON’s resilience. Siu emphasized that TON is still in its early stages and believes that such challenges are part of the network’s growth process. He sees TON’s potential to become even larger than Telegram itself in the future, driving the platform’s growth.

“TON itself should remain as a censorship-resistant decentralized platform like other chains, but the projects and dApps themselves can implement measures to ensure stability,” he said.

Regardless of these challenges, venture capitalists remain confident in the potential of tap-to-earn. The coming years will reveal whether this model will secure its place as a lasting feature in Web3 gaming, but for now, investors are fully committed.

Disclaimer

Following the Trust Project guidelines, this feature article presents opinions and perspectives from industry experts or individuals. BeInCrypto is dedicated to transparent reporting, but the views expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect those of BeInCrypto or its staff. Readers should verify information independently and consult with a professional before making decisions based on this content. Please note that our Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Disclaimers have been updated.

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TradFi To Become Biggest DeFi Customer

Published

58 mins ago

September 19, 2024

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Chainlink co-founder Sergey Nazarov predicts that tokenized real-world assets (RWAs) will soon be more valuable than cryptocurrencies. He points to the increasing involvement of traditional finance in decentralized finance, driven by a growing interest in tokenization.

Nazarov also noted that Chainlink is ready to take advantage of this shift in the blockchain space.

TradFi Interest in Tokenized RWAs To Alter Blockchain

Nazarov anticipates an interconnected world where decentralized finance (DeFi) and TradFi actively transact with each other. Acknowledging the growing interest in tokenized RWAs, he says TradFi would be DeFi’s largest customer.

Speaking at Token2049 in Singapore, Nazarov highlighted DeFi’s ability to generate yield and create reliable markets for RWAs. He urged the industry to prepare for this shift, noting that it’s already happening, driven by asset tokenization. According to Nazarov, blockchain technology is giving TradFi exactly what it needs.

Chainlink co-founder also highlighted how decentralized infrastructures like Chainlink and smart contracts are transforming the digital space by removing the need for traditional counterparty relationships. Instead of relying on human decision-making, automated code ensures outcomes, improving efficiency and reducing risks that traditional finance models often face.

Chainlink co-founder on TradFi, DeFi, and tokenized RWA during Token2049 in Singapore

Nazarov emphasized that this represents a major shift from the current TradFi model, where delays and risks stem from human intervention.

His remarks align with his statements from late August, when he predicted that tokenized real-world assets (RWAs) would surpass crypto in value by 2027, driven by institutional interest and TradFi integration. Currently, the RWA market is growing, with RWA.xyz data showing it is already a $2.22 billion industry.

Tokenized RWA — Tokenized Securities Industry Valuation. Source: RWA.xyz

This development comes as blockchain technology continues to tackle the infrastructure challenges faced by traditional finance, while also opening up new investment opportunities. Blockchain’s ability to streamline workflows and significantly improve settlement times is especially appealing — echoing what Sergey Nazarov explained about the efficiency and certainty that decentralized systems offer.

“TradFi needs all kinds of different data that allow those traditional finance smart contracts to function properly…the Net Asset Value (NAV) data of tokenized funds is an example of a dashboard live on production showing the proof of Reserves of one of the many ETF funds use to prove things about them,” Nazarov said.

Notwithstanding, the road to a complete transition to digital infrastructure is marred with challenges. Among them are legal considerations, identity standards, and data privacy, which would demand careful evaluation with regulatory systems in mind.

Accordingly, TradFi and DeFi players and the broader financial services industry must work to build infrastructures capable of supporting broader tokenization adoption while ensuring security and compliance before Nazarov’s dream can become a reality.

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In adherence to the Trust Project guidelines, BeInCrypto is committed to unbiased, transparent reporting. This news article aims to provide accurate, timely information. However, readers are advised to verify facts independently and consult with a professional before making any decisions based on this content. Please note that our Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Disclaimers have been updated.

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Vitalik Buterin’s Speech, and More

Published

2 hours ago

September 19, 2024

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The Token2049 conference in Singapore has once again proven to be a key event for the crypto industry, showcasing major advancements and collaborations.

The event covered everything from Ethereum’s growth to new partnerships in sports and AI, highlighting how the industry continues to evolve.

Vitalik Sings Ethereum’s Progress: Fees, Speed, Future

Ethereum creator Vitalik Buterin surprised Token2049 attendees by delivering his speech in the form of a concert. Despite the unusual presentation, he shared key updates on Ethereum’s progress.

Buterin highlighted how Layer-2 networks have reduced transaction fees and improved transaction confirmation times to just 5 to 15 seconds.

He also stressed the importance of balancing mainstream adoption with Ethereum’s core values of decentralization and open-source development. Buterin briefly mentioned the ongoing competition with Bitcoin, which currently dominates 58% of the market.

On the second day of Token2049, global crypto exchange Bitget announced a partnership with LaLiga. The collaboration, timed with Bitget’s sixth anniversary, will focus on leveraging blockchain technology alongside LaLiga’s ventures into AI, virtual reality, and the metaverse.

Bitget CEO Gracy Chen highlighted the alliance’s potential to connect with millions of football fans in emerging markets. This follows Bitget’s 2022 partnership with Lionel Messi, reflecting the growing overlap between crypto and sports.

Solana Mobile Unveils ‘Seeker’: Next-Gen Web3 Smartphone

Solana Mobile, a subsidiary of Solana Labs, has unveiled its second-generation Web3 smartphone, called “Seeker”. Previously referred to as “Chapter Two,” Seeker has already secured over 140,000 presale units across 57 countries, according to Emmett Hollyer, Solana Mobile’s general manager. The device is set for release in 2025 and aims to further Web3 mobile development within the Solana ecosystem.

Seeker’s key features include a seed vault wallet, Solana dApp Store 2.0, a Seeker Genesis token, and enhanced hardware. The Early Founder price is $450 until September 21, 2024.

This launch comes after the Saga phone faced initial struggles with sales, but later sold out following a surge in the value of the BONK meme coin.

Chainlink’s Sergey Nazarov Predicts RWA Surge

Chainlink co-founder Sergey Nazarov once again predicted that tokenized real-world assets (RWA) will soon surpass cryptocurrencies in value on Web3. During his keynote at Token2049, he stated that TradFi will become decentralized finance’s (DeFi) largest customer, reshaping the blockchain industry.

Nazarov highlighted Chainlink’s Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol (CCIP) as crucial in connecting various financial systems. He noted that Chainlink’s oracle network has already enabled $15.49 trillion in transaction value since 2022.

To integrate with blockchain, TradFi needs access to diverse data types and cross-chain connectivity. CCIP offers programmable token transfers, allowing value and data to be included in single transactions.

CertiK, the prominent blockchain security firm, announced a major upgrade to its Web3 services. The company introduced two free community security tools: Token Scan and Wallet Scan, aimed at increasing user asset protection.

Token Scan offers instant security checks for tokens, helping users detect potential scams on networks like Solana. Wallet Scan allows users to assess their wallets for risks such as approval vulnerabilities, and interactions with phishing addresses.

These tools were developed based on CertiK’s extensive experience, including over 70 white hat operations, reporting of 4,000+ security incidents, identification of 115,000 code vulnerabilities, and protection of approximately $360 billion in assets.

Hollywood Veteran Critiques Celebrity Meme Coins

Andrew Saunders, a former Hollywood executive and now Skale’s chief marketing officer, voiced criticism of celebrity-backed meme coins at Token2049. Despite his background in entertainment, Saunders warned against these tokens due to concentrated supply and high risk, likening them to a player-versus-player game where early entry is key to making a profit.

Looking ahead, Saunders predicted a shift in the landscape as crypto regulations become clearer and public understanding improves. He envisioned a future where celebrities use blockchain to connect with fans in a more meaningful way, accessing unique data through an “arm in” model.

As a better alternative to meme coins, Saunders suggested that celebrities develop decentralized applications (DApps) where fans could earn points through social interactions. These points could then be redeemed for exclusive experiences or merchandise.

Solidus Ai Tech and SambaNova Partner for Web 3.0 AI

Solidus Ai Tech has partnered with SambaNova Systems to advance AI in Web 3.0 by integrating SambaNova’s RDU stacks into Solidus Ai Tech’s AI marketplace and European HPC Data Centre. This collaboration promises unprecedented speeds in AI inferencing and fine-tuning.

Set to launch in September, the AI Marketplace will feature advanced AI models powered by SambaNova’s SN40L chip, making high-performance AI accessible across various industries. Paul Farhi, CEO of Solidus Ai Tech, described it as a major leap for AI, while Su Le from SambaNova emphasized the potential for decentralized intelligence in Web 3.0.

Venture Trio Launches Fund for Aptos Ecosystem Growth

MEXC Ventures, Foresight Ventures, and Mirana Ventures have joined forces to establish a new fund aimed at boosting the Aptos ecosystem. This collaborative initiative will focus on supporting promising projects built on the Aptos platform, with a particular emphasis on developing crucial Web3 use cases.

The fund will prioritize projects that leverage Aptos infrastructure, including technologies like Block-STM, and those that facilitate seamless interoperability with key EVM ecosystems. This strategic investment demonstrates strong confidence in Aptos’ technological advancements and future potential.

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How Fed Rate Cut Could Help LINK

Published

3 hours ago

September 19, 2024

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Chainlink’s (LINK) price has risen above $11 following the recent Fed rate cut. This increase has ignited fresh speculation about the coin’s short-term outlook.

In this analysis, BeInCrypto examines the factors contributing to the hike, the potential implications of the rate cut, and what traders can expect from LINK.

Chainlink Key Drivers Want More

According to Santiment, alongside the recent rate cut, Chainlink’s 90-day Mean Coin Age (MCA) has risen. The MCA reflects the average age of tokens in circulation, with a low MCA suggesting that previously inactive tokens are being moved from cold wallets, potentially leading to a sell-off and putting downward pressure on the price.

Conversely, a rising MCA indicates that investors are holding onto their tokens and engaging less in trading activity, often signaling a long-term hold strategy. In Chainlink’s case, the spike in the MCA suggests that many investors are choosing to keep their LINK tokens dormant or moving them into self-custody, reducing selling pressure.

Chainlink 90-Day Mean Coin Age. Source: Santiment

Beyond the rising coin age, the 4-hour LINK/USD chart reveals a surge in the Cumulative Volume Delta (CVD), a key indicator of market sentiment. Each bar on the CVD shows whether the market is dominated by buying or selling activity. Red bars signal selling pressure, which could drive the price down.

In LINK’s case, the chart shows five consecutive green bars, indicating sustained buying pressure. This suggests that the market’s demand for LINK is growing, potentially supporting the continuation of its uptrend.

Chainlink Cumulative Volume Delta. Source: TradingView

LINK Price Prediction: Further Gains

The daily chart shows that Chainlink is holding strong at the $10.02 support level, which played a key role in its recent breakout above the $10.83 resistance. Currently, LINK is trading at $11.30, with no significant resistance in sight to halt the uptrend.

Using Fibonacci retracement levels to assess potential price targets, LINK’s next likely move could take it to $11.86, corresponding to the 38.2% Fibonacci level. If it breaks past this point, the next target could be around $12.98, a level that appears within reach given the current momentum.

Chainlink Daily Analysis. Source: TradingView

However, the cryptocurrency could experience a pullback if it fails to surpass $11.86. If that happens, LINK might drop to $9.25.

Disclaimer

In line with the Trust Project guidelines, this price analysis article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or investment advice. BeInCrypto is committed to accurate, unbiased reporting, but market conditions are subject to change without notice. Always conduct your own research and consult with a professional before making any financial decisions. Please note that our Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Disclaimers have been updated.

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