Anthony Georgiades

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Offering both big-picture and detailed views of transactions, blockchain explorers are a powerful tool for both individuals and companies. Even those who aren’t steeped in the finance industry can probably call up a visual image of an old-school stock ticker, generating lengths of white tape to help investors stay on top of stock market transactions and developments. Today, these have been supplanted by up-to-the-moment digital trackers. In similar fashion, the crypto industry has blockchain explorers, which offer users real-time tracking of not only their own transactions, but also everything happening on the blockchain. Providing invaluable information for both individuals and companies, blockchain explorers bolster insiders’ argument that cryptocurrencies can be a secure and trustworthy option for investments and digital transactions. Below, 11 members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle discuss some of the benefits blockchain explorers offer to all users.

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The ultimate impacts of CBDCs on the crypto industry may be a mixed bag of positives and negatives, and insiders need to monitor developments. In June 2023, the Atlantic Council, based in the United States, announced the results of a study on global nations' interest in and progress toward creating their own central bank digital currencies. Eleven countries have already launched CBDCs; 130 others are in the exploratory phase, and about half of those have begun the development process.  Market watchers cite multiple factors behind governments' push toward CBDCs, from the decreasing use of cash by the general population to geopolitical tensions and events. Whatever the underlying reasons, though, crypto industry players need to keep an eye on developments and consider how the rise of CBDCs could impact the industry and global marketplace. Here, 11 members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle share their predictions for possible outcomes from the ever-expanding development and introduction of CBDCs.

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Collective creativity and shared ownership of content in the metaverse raise considerations regarding fair use, credit and compensation for creative contributions.

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A combination of trends already underway and deliberate industry action could lead to crypto’s watershed moment in terms of public adoption. For many, the crypto industry feels as though it's hovering on the brink. It attracts high-profile attention and headlines; yet widespread public interest and adoption haven't yet followed.  There may be a variety of factors giving the public pause, ranging from stories of misconduct by bad actors to simply a lack of understanding of the industry's technology, philosophy and potential. But is it possible some significant trend or development could tip the scales in crypto's favor? Below, 13 members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle speculate about some of the factors and events they believe could lead to a groundswell of interest in the crypto industry among the general public.

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To successfully scale, crypto and blockchain companies need to know as much about business development as they do about their technology. Founders of crypto and blockchain companies launch with a vision of bringing an innovative and impactful service to the business or consumer marketplace. And as with entrepreneurs in any industry, they have the goal of growing. With expertise in the technology and its potential, leaders of crypto and blockchain firms may be clear on the "nuts and bolts" aspects of scaling — infrastructure upgrades, interoperability, compliance and so on — but less knowledgeable about the business development side of growing a company. Crypto and blockchain companies seeking to expand will need to make multiple decisions — but first, they need to know all the questions that have to be answered. Below, 16 members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle share some of the factors growing companies will need to examine and offer their tips for confidently moving forward. 

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Blockchain companies aren’t just selling themselves; they’re also selling the industry’s technology and principles as a whole.  Word about blockchain technology’s benefits has penetrated the global marketplace, so now’s the time for blockchain businesses to begin deliberately refining and sharing their marketing messages. Like other service businesses, blockchain companies have to find effective ways to explain why their service in particular is the right choice for a potential client’s unique needs. However, unlike service companies in other industries, in many cases, blockchain leaders will be marketing a service that B2B clients may be intrigued by but don’t understand well. Marketing a business always takes a lot of hustle, and blockchain technologies will likely need to blend traditional marketing methods focused on their own unique benefits with new strategies to make B2B clients outside the industry excited about what blockchain can do. Below, 16 members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle share tips to help blockchain companies improve their marketing strategies to attract and land potential clients.

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Blockchain-based data providers are faced with a golden opportunity — if they’re able to scale their infrastructure to handle the demand. Each year, the amount of data generated across the globe is growing exponentially. From the explosion in the use of digital tools in the workplace to the ever-growing use of Internet of Things devices, social media, online gaming, e-commerce and other digital platforms, each day sees the creation of a massive amount of data that needs to be stored securely and efficiently.  Blockchain technology provides a decentralized, immutable, secure solution, making it an ideal option for multiple industries. But first, blockchain-based data providers need to prove they can scale to meet the exploding demand. By leveraging smart partnerships and building new solutions that are compatible with what’s already in the market (and familiar), the blockchain industry can lead the way in addressing an issue in genuine need of a solution. Below, 10 members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle share tips to help blockchain-based data providers scale to meet the ever-growing demands of the broader data storage space.

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Smart ESG practices can help crypto mining companies be more responsible members of the global community and attract new investors. Companies across industries are focused on improving their environmental, social and governance practices, and with good reason. In addition to having the desire to do good for its own sake, businesses are very aware that more and more investors are taking a company’s ESG standards and practices into account when making investment decisions. Crypto mining companies would do well to look into how they too can keep ESG practices in mind, and in light of a common criticism levied at the crypto industry — that it has a large carbon footprint — they may want to begin by focusing on energy efficiency and emissions. Below, eight members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle share tips to help crypto mining companies adopt or enhance ESG practices and share that work with fellow industry members and the public.

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Crypto companies operating in the EU must begin work now to comply with MiCA and assess how it might affect their global operations. In May 2023, the European Union signed its landmark Markets in Crypto-Assets legislation into law. Crypto businesses operating in the EU now have a fixed timeline to comply with MiCA’s wide-ranging guidance and regulations, which address everything from defining a crypto asset to establishing reserve requirements for stablecoins. While MiCA is impacting crypto at a challenging time, many insiders welcome this groundbreaking legislation and expect it to lead to a stronger, more vibrant industry. Below, nine members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle share their insights to help crypto companies ensure they’re compliant with MiCA once it’s in full effect.

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If they start in the right place and leverage the many available resources, devs new to blockchain can become thriving community members. Tech developers looking for a new challenge may well be turning their attention to blockchain. The space is still fresh enough that a newcomer can get in on the ground floor of exciting new developments and take their place among industry pioneers. However, devs who are used to being “tech gurus” may hesitate at the threshold, uncertain where to begin their professional journey with blockchain. And there’s no doubt there’s important homework to be done before leaping in. Below, 10 members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle share some tips for curious developers who are new to blockchain coding and programming but want to join the growing professional community.

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The United States doesn’t have to start from scratch when it comes to developing effective laws and guidelines for crypto. While the U.S. has long been known as a center of innovation and new technology, the nation’s regulatory bodies don’t seem to know quite what to make of the crypto industry. The U.S. is lagging behind countries in Europe and Asia in establishing crypto regulations, and it’s not because the industry is broadly resistant. Indeed, crypto insiders would welcome — are asking for — clear and consistent guidelines. Still, one of the benefits of being late to the party is being able to learn from what’s working in the regions that have forged ahead. Below, 11 members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle discuss a few of the most important things U.S. regulators can learn from actions taken in other countries as they begin to establish laws and guidelines for crypto.

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Crypto exchanges must take the initiative in addressing regulators’ and investors’ concerns about liquidity. Globally, the young crypto industry struggles with image issues. The latest blow came in May 2023, when the U.K.’s Treasury Committee recommended that crypto trading and investment be regulated as gambling rather than as a financial service.  Setting aside the fairness or accuracy of the opinions of regulatory agencies and crypto-skeptical investors, it’s clear that the industry must take every possible step to earn the trust of outsiders. This includes the need for crypto exchanges to address liquidity concerns — not only to enhance exchanges’ trustworthiness and credibility, but also to provide a stable and seamless trading experience for users. Below, eight members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle suggest strategies to help crypto exchanges calm investors’ concerns about liquidity.

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NFTs have democratized access to the art world in unprecedented ways, unlocking new opportunities for artists who might otherwise not have been able to make a living from their passions.

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Due diligence when vetting crypto and blockchain companies comprises considering both traditional business factors and unique imperatives. Venture capitalists may be wary of the crypto and blockchain industry at the moment, and it’s not without reason. However, the highly publicized bad actions of a few shouldn’t keep VCs from spotting the real potential that well-run businesses in the sector can offer. As with investments in any industry, conducting thorough research and asking smart questions can help VCs ensure they’re backing reputable companies poised to make a positive (and profitable) impact in the market. Here, 12 members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle share tips for a VC who’s considering investing in a crypto and blockchain company.

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Before reaching out to a potential banking partner, it’s wise to know both what they can offer and what they’ll expect. Choosing the right banking partner can be a particularly tricky process for a crypto or blockchain company. While there are many options in the market, only a few will possess the experience, commitment and risk tolerance companies in a young and tech-forward industry need. And simply making a choice won’t seal the deal: Crypto and blockchain entrepreneurs must have the detailed information banks will demand at their fingertips and be ready to reciprocate the transparency they themselves expect from a financial partner. There’s a lot of homework to be done before beginning any sort of outreach, so knowing what to look for as you begin the research is a helpful head start. Below, nine members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle share their advice for crypto and blockchain companies that are beginning the process of choosing a banking partner.

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Proper vetting of potential Web3 partners includes looking both at traditional business fundamentals and industry-specific USPs. When considering Web3 partnerships, the background and perspective of the evaluator may lead to blind spots. Traditional companies and investors may know the business fundamentals and financial metrics to examine but be unclear on industry-specific “must-haves” such as necessary tech capabilities and a committed fan base. Industry insiders, on the other hand, may be impressed by a potential partner’s community presence and the features they promote but overlook the health of the financial and advisory foundations.    To ensure a profitable partnership that brings value to both parties and to end-users, it’s essential to examine both the big picture and the telling details. Below, 17 members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle share tips for companies and individuals engaged in evaluating a potential Web3 partnership.

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Staking protocols are subject to evolving and varying regulations, so be prepared to monitor and meet new legal requirements.  As even late-night talk show hosts begin to weigh in on events in the crypto industry, it’s clear the public is increasingly paying attention to both the potential and challenges of investing in crypto. Of even more immediate concern to crypto companies, though, are the questions around the type and number of legislative guardrails lawmakers will inevitably impose. As regulators start to eye staking protocols, companies must ensure they engage in the ongoing work of ensuring that their staking is compliant. Below, 11 members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle discuss effective ways for companies to ensure compliant staking as the industry continues to evolve.

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A bear market may not be the best of times for a crypto startup, but it’s not an insurmountable barrier, either. Launching a startup in any industry is hard. Launching during a bear market is even harder. Launching a startup in a bear market in a relatively new industry like crypto — which many investors don’t fully understand and which has had its share of recent negative headlines — brings a whole additional slate of challenges. But as many industry pioneers have proven, it’s not impossible, as long as founders follow a few smart strategies. Many of the members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle are startup founders themselves, and all are longtime industry veterans and market watchers. Here, 18 of them share their tested tips for crypto companies starting out during these volatile times.

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The series of collapses of CeFi platforms have weeded out bad actors and unsound business models.

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Balancing cost-cutting efforts with smart efficiency strategies can help crypto companies weather current macroeconomic conditions. Crypto winter has been challenging enough for the industry; it doesn’t help that the broader macroeconomic environment is uncertain as well. With ongoing talk of a potential recession, tightening access to investor capital and rising interest rates, some crypto and blockchain companies are joining their peers in other industries in exploring cost-cutting measures. While trimming the budget may be a necessary effort, it’s important to do so judiciously. Further, leveraging smart strategies can help companies avoid deep cuts and boost productivity and efficiency. Here, 15 members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle share tips to help companies in the crypto and blockchain space wisely adjust to survive the current macroeconomic environment.

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There are multiple strategies to help crypto ecosystems create a welcoming environment for developers.  The ecosystem concept is unique to (and uniquely suited to) the crypto industry. These synergistic communities offer a network where participants can benefit from each other’s work and progress while building an ever-stronger foundation. A recent study found there were more than 18,000 active Web3 developers and pinpointed the ecosystems having the most success attracting new developers. So what do ecosystem projects need to do to achieve similar success to these top performers? According to the industry experts of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle, it’s essential to be cognizant of what developers are really looking for in an ecosystem. Below, 12 of them share strategies ecosystem projects can leverage to attract more developers.

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NFTs are a new asset powered by a new technology, so regulators will need to craft all-new solutions.  Many outside the crypto industry first heard of nonfungible tokens only within the last year or so, with most mainstream coverage focused on the digital artwork market. Those not in the know may well have thought NFTs would amount to nothing more than digital collectibles. However, industry pioneers grasped the full potential of NFTs, and new applications are surfacing that could impact multiple industries.  As the value of NFTs as assets is realized, regulation is sure to follow — but it won’t be as simple as applying the rules established for more traditional assets. Below, 10 members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle discuss some important facts regulators should understand as they start to scrutinize NFT markets.

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Attracting Web3 businesses will take a blend of traditional strategies and a commitment to helping the industry develop a firm foundation.  Local communities are always in the business of attracting businesses. A diverse foundation of companies in a region brings many things with it, including new residents, higher tax receipts, and more and better educational, recreational and health amenities. Forward-looking communities may well be looking for ways to become magnets for the next generation of tech businesses, including blockchain and crypto firms. As pioneers in the space, the members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle know exactly what the industry’s entrepreneurs are looking for. Below, they share 10 tips to help community leaders persuade Web3 businesses to open their doors in their locale.

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Like every market cycle, this crypto winter will eventually end.

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Leveraging the right blend of marketing strategies can not only raise a Web3 brand’s profile but also earn users’ trust. Web3 has its share of high-profile influencers who have opened the door to consumer and business interest in the industry. While this creates a tide that can help raise the profile of all companies in the space, eventually a Web3 brand will need to find a way to stand out and stand on its own two feet. Traditional marketing methods like thought leadership, social media outreach and working for earned media coverage can all be leveraged by Web3 companies, but it’s also wise to lean into the space’s unique strengths, including its technology and commitment to community. Below, 14 members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle discuss marketing strategies Web3 brands can use to both increase exposure and build trust among current and prospective users.

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The crypto and blockchain industry grew up with Twitter, and the platform remains a vital networking tool.  Social media and the crypto and blockchain industries seem to be a perfect fit. What better way for companies in the industry to communicate in real time and build communities than through the platforms designed for doing just that? While many marketing firms and industries are highlighting “fresh” sites like TikTok, much of the crypto audience remains devoted to Twitter, and the platform offers its own slate of tools and trends that fit industry needs. Still, using Twitter to build, grow and interact with your community takes more than posting or sharing an occasional tweet. Below, 13 members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle share their tips for leveraging Twitter to build crypto and blockchain communities.

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To persuade TradFi firms and Web2 users to think outside the box, Web3 pioneers first have to do so themselves. When it comes to traditional finance, crypto and blockchain leaders are faced with something of a disconnect. TradFi firms are in one sense competition, but unless TradFi comes to embrace Web3, Web3 can’t reach its full potential. Complicating efforts to reach out to TradFi are mutual feelings of uncertainty: Crypto and blockchain pioneers fear that TradFi’s influence may weaken the consumer- and transparency-first commitment industry enthusiasts value, while TradFi firms are wary of a new industry whose technology and guidelines they don’t understand. With its long history, traditional finance is familiar to consumers and has earned widespread trust. By partnering with TradFi firms, Web3 organizations could accrue some of that positive feeling. Further, by viewing TradFi as a potential customer base, Web3 firms could begin to grow organically. From “ceasing hostilities” to spreading a wider net, there are many things crypto and blockchain leaders can do to bridge the gap between Web3 and TradFi. Below, 16 members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle share their ideas.

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In a time when VC funding is hard to come by, crypto companies seeking to attract investors must focus on value, not hype. It’s no secret venture capitalists react to prevailing market conditions when making decisions, and amid global economic uncertainty, entrepreneurs from across industries are finding that VC funds are more difficult to come by these days. This is especially true for crypto and blockchain companies, which have to overcome not only a knowledge barrier but also the lingering fear aroused by recent bad behavior from certain high-profile crypto founders and firms.  Crypto pioneers who became accustomed to a free-flowing tap of VC cash during the industry’s early heyday may need to adjust their mindset and approach to be successful when seeking funds in the current market. Here, 12 members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle share tips to help crypto and blockchain companies move forward as VC funds become less generous with their investments.

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2022 was quite the year for crypto. It saw incredible innovation and greater adoption. This progress was accompanied by some major growing pains, including major hacks and scams amid an overall bear market.

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The crypto industry isn’t unique in facing a developer shortage, but it can develop some unique solutions to the problem. Ask any leader in any industry for a list of the significant issues they’re facing right now, and odds are they’ll mention the difficulty of finding and retaining top-quality talent. It’s been a long-term, ongoing issue when it comes to professionals with a technology focus, and as businesses across industries undergo digital transformation, it’s not just a problem for tech-focused companies anymore. As a relatively new, tech-forward industry, the crypto and blockchain space is definitely feeling the pinch when it comes to landing and keeping talented developers. However, it’s not a problem without a solution. By exercising creativity and leaning into the space’s unique strengths and appeal, crypto and blockchain companies can catch the interest and loyalty of top-quality devs. Here, seven members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle share some ideas to help leaders in the space address the developer shortage the industry’s currently facing.

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The crypto industry would be wise to learn from and adopt the proven principles and processes TradFi relies on to protect consumers. Crypto pioneers and decentralized finance companies often talk about their commitment to opening up financial opportunities to underserved populations, but that’s only half the battle in achieving success for this fledgling industry. Global consumers must be confident that the funds they invest with crypto companies are safe, secure and accessible for withdrawal when desired. While traditional finance companies may not offer all the new and unique opportunities and potential of DeFi, what they do enjoy is a long history and established methods for protecting consumers’ investments — and maintaining their trust. Below, 10 members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle discuss some helpful things the crypto industry can learn from the TradFi industry, including practices DeFi companies should consider adopting and adapting for their own customer base.

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Full transparency around transactions, projects and technologies is the only way crypto can grow as an industry.   In the midst of a bear market, the last story the crypto industry wanted to see hit the headlines was the debacle at FTX. It’s a story centered on the biggest negative perception many in the public still have of the crypto industry: that transactions regularly happen out of public view for the benefit of a handful of bad actors and at the expense of customers. Whether it’s fair or not, this negative reputation of crypto is something honest crypto leaders and companies will have to overcome, and the best way to do that is by ensuring current customers know what’s going on with the assets they’ve invested and that potential investors clearly understand the potential the industry offers. Below, 15 members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle discuss ways crypto companies can provide improved transparency for their customers.

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For effective, consistent results, enhancing the security of bridge protocols must begin with smart practices by developers. In March 2022, the developers of the Ronin bridge announced a hack in which $612 million was taken in just two fraudulent transactions. It was a blow that struck at the very foundations of crypto’s potential: If transactions between blockchains can’t be effectively secured, the industry will remain fragmented. The development of new blockchain bridges has taken off in recent years, and it’s essential for devs to take heed of the lessons from the Ronin hack. Below, 10 members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle discuss strategies devs can leverage to increase the security of bridge protocols—it’s a challenge that may take more than careful coding.

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Changing negative perceptions of the crypto industry entails a combination of education and consistent, smart SOPs. While it has staunch defenders and high-profile enthusiasts, there’s no question the crypto industry has been the subject of intense scrutiny. Many leading voices, from media figures and financial pundits to elected officials, fairly regularly publish opinions on crypto ranging from skeptical to downright hostile. And a recent spate of less-than-positive events in the crypto space isn’t helping to enhance the industry’s broader reputation. While industry leaders can’t change the past or control the actions of unscrupulous actors, they can do more to strengthen crypto’s foundation and spread the word about the space’s positive potential. Below, 16 members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle share practical ways industry leaders can help improve crypto’s reputation among the general public.

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While rising interest rates can entail increased risk for the crypto industry, they may also bring new opportunities. As a new and distinctive industry, it can be easy to forget that crypto is subject to impact from overall economic conditions and market forces, just like any other sector. Crypto business leaders must pay attention to rising interest rates and pivot as necessary to both manage new risks and take advantage of possible new rewards.  From the potential downsides — like difficulties in accessing funding — to the possible silver linings — like new interest in crypto from investors looking to outpace inflation — rising interest rates will certainly bring changes to the industry. Below, 15 members of Cointelegraph Innovation Circle discuss important issues crypto leaders should focus on as interest rates rise, and why.

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There have been too many hacks involving losses in the hundreds of millions of dollars due to design failures and a lack of robust security standards.