Beacon, a prominent web3 accelerator program founded by Polygon co-founder Sandeep Nailwal in 2022, has announced the launch of its fourth and most ambitious cohort yet. This new batch includes 17 cutting-edge companies, marking a notable expansion from previous groups.
These companies, selected from pre-seed to Series A stages, hail from diverse sectors within web3, such as DeFi, infrastructure, and AI. Notable participants include Stakestone, EXO, Nubit, Aligned Layer, and eoracle, with several already backed by major VCs like Pantera, Founders Fund, Framework, and Andreessen Horowitz (a16z).
“We’re thrilled to welcome our largest and most diverse cohort so far,” Sandeep Nailwal expressed. “The caliber of companies joining us in the latest program is truly exceptional, and we’re excited to see how, with the aid of our mentorship and resources, they’ll go on to shape the future of web3 and beyond.”
The launch follows the successful graduation of Beacon’s S23 cohort, which included standout companies like scalable data availability layer 0G and verifiable oracle protocol ORA, both achieving unicorn status post-graduation. Success stories from this cohort have set high expectations for the new entrants, especially given their strong backgrounds and early achievements.
Aligned Layer and Nubit, two of the cohort members, have already raised significant Series A funding rounds of $20 million and $12 million respectively. This cohort’s potential is further underscored by the innovative projects these companies are bringing to the table:
- Aligned Layer is enhancing Ethereum’s efficiency with its decentralized network.
- EXO enables individuals to run personal AI clusters using everyday devices.
- Nubit is focusing on scaling Bitcoin’s data capacities to support applications like Ordinals and Layer 2 solutions.
Beacon’s three-month biannual program provides startups with critical mentorship, resources, and capital, aiming to propel their growth and establish them as leaders in the web3 space. “With the level of talent and innovation we’re witnessing in this new group, we are entirely confident that they can emulate, if not surpass, their predecessors,” Nailwal concluded, highlighting the program’s role as a catalyst in the web3 innovation landscape.
Analysts project that the spot price of Ether (ETH) could soar to between $12,000 and $22,000 by the end of this decade, with optimistic scenarios laid out by cryptocurrency brokerage StoneX Digital and asset manager VanEck.
Matthew Sigel, head of digital asset research at VanEck, forecasts that the Ethereum network could generate as much as $66 billion in annual free cash flow by 2030, potentially elevating the price of ETH to around $22,000 per token. On the shorter-term horizon, David Kroger, a data scientist at StoneX, anticipates ETH prices reaching approximately $4,600 within the next 18 months. However, Kroger suggests an even higher potential of around $12,621, citing significant upcoming technological advancements in Ethereum, as discussed during a StoneX panel on September 10.
The bullish estimates are rooted in the anticipated accrual of value to ETH holders from transaction fees as Ethereum increasingly processes a larger share of global transactions. Sigel pointed out Ethereum’s already significant transaction volume, stating, “Ethereum processed roughly $4 trillion in settlement value over the last year and another $5 trillion in stablecoin transfers annually. So this is far bigger than PayPal and is beginning to approach networks like Visa.”
Since its inception in 2015, Ethereum has accumulated $3 billion in fees (denominated in ETH), according to Sigel. Additional value accrual mechanisms for ETH include the “burning” of a portion of transaction fees—permanently removing them from circulation—and issuing new ETH to reward stakers who secure the network by posting ETH as collateral.
Despite a recent sharp decline in revenue following the network’s March Dencun upgrade—which cut transaction fees by about 95%—Sigel remains optimistic about Ethereum’s recovery prospects in the latter half of the year. “There wasn’t enough volume to make up for the fee decline, so investors have become less constructive about the chain,” Sigel explained. “Ethereum still has some levers it can pull to recover value […] That’s what we’re looking at for the second half of the year.”
Additionally, the broader appeal of Ethereum is linked to a growing global demand for decentralized solutions, as Kroger highlighted, especially outside the United States due to diminishing trust in centralized institutions and the credibility of the US dollar.
X has been banned in Brazil. The French government has charged Telegram’s founder with some pretty outrageous crimes. Decentralized social platforms are what the world needs right now — more than DeFi and more than RWAs.
The blockchain and social media landscapes are on the cusp of a major transformation, thanks to LUKSO’s newest innovation — the Universal Follower System.
This feature, announced recently, promises to unify social connections across decentralized platforms, offering a seamless follower experience like never before.
Introduction to LUKSO’s New Universal Follower System
LUKSO, an L1 EVM-based blockchain, has always been at the forefront of integrating blockchain technology with social, creative, and cultural use cases.
Now, with the Universal Follower System, they are taking a massive step toward changing how users connect and interact online. This latest innovation solidifies LUKSO’s role in the ecosystem and sets a new standard for digital identity and social interactions.
How It Works
At its core, the Universal Follower System is a smart contract-based solution designed to create a unified follower registry across various decentralized applications (dApps).
Unlike traditional social media platforms where followers are siloed within each app, LUKSO’s system allows users to retain their followers across multiple platforms. If two users follow each other on one dApp, their connection is preserved across other dApps in the LUKSO ecosystem.
The technical aspects of this system are rooted in blockchain tech, keeping follower data secure, transparent, and immutable. By recording all follower interactions on-chain, LUKSO guarantees that users have full control over their social connections, free from the constraints of centralized platforms.
Unique Features and Use Cases
The Universal Follower System boasts several unique features that set it apart from traditional follower mechanisms:
- Automated Actions: The system supports automated actions like follow notifications, ensuring users are always informed about their social interactions.
- Customization Options: Users can customize their follower interactions based on specific criteria, tailoring their social experience to their preferences.
- Versatile Applications: From social networking to professional connections, the follower system can be applied across a wide range of use cases, making it a versatile tool for various online interactions.
The system has the potential to redefine how we perceive and manage our social connections in a decentralized world.
Why Blockchain?
LUKSO is a next-generation EVM Layer-1 blockchain designed to revamp social, creative, and cultural domains. The platform unlocks unprecedented opportunities for dApps and on-chain experiences using new smart contract standards.
The introduction of the Universal Follower System aligns perfectly with LUKSO’s mission to transform how people interact with blockchain technology.
Through these initiatives, LUKSO is paving the way for a more inclusive and user-centric blockchain ecosystem.
Universal Profiles
Central to LUKSO’s vision is the concept of Universal Profiles, based on the ERC 725 standard. Introduced by Fabian Vogelsteller in 2017. ERC 725 allows for the creation of smart contract accounts that can hold any information and be controlled by multiple private keys.
LUKSO’s Universal Profile is the first fully standardized smart contract account. It is a multi-functional profile that works across websites, social accounts, and blockchain wallets. This user-centric design ensures that individuals have complete control over their digital identity, making online interactions more secure and personalized.
Deploying and Using Universal Profiles
Deploying a Universal Profile on LUKSO is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Create a Profile: Visit the LUKSO platform and create your Universal Profile by entering basic information and uploading a profile picture.
- Customize the Profile: Add tags, links, and other details to personalize the profile. Set up control of the account on multiple devices with different permissions.
- Connect with Others: Follow other users and build a personalized social network across various dApps in the LUKSO ecosystem.
By deploying and using Universal Profiles, users can enhance their digital presence and make online interactions more meaningful and secure.
Decentralization Is the Foundation for the Future of Social Platforms
The introduction of the Universal Follower System and Universal Profiles has far-reaching implications for the future of social media, blockchain adoption, and digital identity. The platform will create a more interconnected and user-centric digital ecosystem where individuals have full control over social connections and online interactions.
LUKSO’s Universal Follower System will change social media. By offering a unified follower experience across decentralized platforms, LUKSO is setting a new standard for digital identity and social interactions.
For those looking to stay ahead of the curve, now is the time to get involved with LUKSO and experience the future of digital identity firsthand.
Cryptocurrency investment is widely spread across the globe. Individuals have found this form of investing rewarding and bearing more profits. One of the most famous crypto investments is by using Bitcoins. However, you will need an ATM for your Bitcoin transactions. These ATMs are not very common, so you will need to research to locate one. Here are some ways one can locate a Bitcoin ATM Near You.
Use a Website
Some websites are specifically designed for bitcoins. These websites have an ATM locator that is specifically set to locate Bitcoin ATMs near you. You may look for an ATM by keying in your zip code, city, or state. This tool will show you the closest Bitcoin ATM near your location. They provide details and features of each ATM available. This is one of the most used methods of locating Bitcoin ATMs across the universe.
Use Mobile Apps
Locating Bitcoin ATMs can be done by several smartphone applications. They have functions that allow users to locate ATMs around them based on their current locations. Some of these apps include Bitcoin. Com and Wallet App. To find a Bitcoin ATM around with ease, install these apps on your smartphone.
Google Maps
You can find a Bitcoin ATM in your location by using Google Maps. You only need to type this keyword into Google Maps. It will then show a list of ATMs that are closer to your location. You get to know the map of nearby Bitcoin ATMs, making your search easy and saving you time. Once you get this information, click on the specific location to get more details about the Bitcoin ATMs available.
Cryptocurrency Exchange Websites
Most of the existing cryptocurrency websites provide a feature that locates Bitcoin ATMs. Users who would like to make transactions can find the ATM listing on the website. This is an easier way to get the map of the nearest Bitcoin ATM around them. When using these websites, ensure that you use a reputable and reliable website. When you get the details about the website, verify them through other sources.
Social Media
You can find a lot of information using your social media platforms. To get more information on ATMs around you. Follow pages from your social media that provide relevant information on Bitcoin ATMs. Follow communities and groups that are purely dedicated to cryptocurrency content.
Online Directories
Another method of locating an ATM is by using online directories. Most online directories provide a list of Bitcoin ATMs and where you can find an ATM near you. You only need to enter your location on any of the available sites and get an ATM location near you.
Bitcoins ATMs allow users to buy and sell bitcoins instantly. Finding one can be a hard task since these ATMs can not be found everywhere. If you are looking for an ATM nearby, use the above information for easy detection of an ATM. You can either choose to use a website, a mobile app, Google Maps, cryptocurrency Exchange Websites, or social media platforms.
The decentralized digital asset market attracts more and more investors each year and offers numerous ways to earn. However, most of these opportunities are not simple for the average user, primarily due to technical complexities. It is necessary to understand blockchains, digital wallets and their configurations if asset owner wish to store cryptocurrencies independently. If digital assets are stored on a centralized cryptocurrency exchange (CEX), a mandatory requirement is to invest a certain amount of money, i.e. to top up the balance of the trading platform.
There are very few options for passive income that don’t require deep knowledge of the cryptocurrency market or any investments.
Popular Earning Options in the Crypto Market — Is It Really That Simple?
Anyone can try to make money in the digital asset market by paying for training from an experienced trader with years of experience and credentials. However, even basic courses can be quite expensive, and the cost of Pro-level training can exceed $10,000. Moreover, no one trader, no matter how brilliant, can convey all their experience accumulated over many years of trading in just a month or two. There is no course can guarantee 100% success in trading. It’s important to understand that margin trading with leverage can bring significant profits but requires deep knowledge and experience, which beginners often lack. Unthoughtful operations, hoping for luck, typically lead to the liquidation of the deposit in 95% of cases.
Anyone can try buying “signals” (forecasts of price changes based on technical and fundamental analysis), but they do not always work propertly because the crypto market is very volatile and systematically manipulated by “whales” (large capital holders in digital assets) and the largest investment and hedge funds managing assets worth hundreds of billions of dollars.
Earn programs actively offered by CEX exchanges are less risky but don’t promise high earnings and still require at least minimal investments from the user. The risk of losing funds in the event of a CEX exchange’s bankruptcy is always present as evidenced by the sad stories of bankrupt trading platforms like Mt.Gox, Cryptopia, FTX, etc.
Is There an Alternative to Earn Without Risk and Investment?
The least risky, simple, and profitable way to earn in cryptocurrencies is the GameFi market. These are gaming projects that don’t require any investment and reward users with their tokens or cryptocurrencies for activity. The most popular trend in GameFi in 2024 is Tap2Earn games, which have already won the hearts of tens of millions of gamers worldwide. These games are commonly referred to as “tappers.”
The most promising, interesting, and anticipated project in the Tap2Earn game segment of 2024 is Monsta. This crypto game offers a new narrative in the world of tappers. It features a more engaging and colorful gameplay than its competitors, a variety of meme characters (cute monsters) inspired by trading stories, and unique game mechanics. An interesting feature of the game is the availability of unique trading cards, in addition to the standard rewards for activity, that reflect the dynamics of real top cryptocurrencies like BTC (Bitcoin), ETH (Ethereum) etc. These cards can be purchased at a fixed price in the Monsta game currency, but their value is tied to the value of the specific cryptocurrency they are denominated in and changes in real-time according to the market. You can create a portfolio of assets from these cards, learn and test your trading strategies. Who knows? Maybe later you could sell it on…Let’s see how this promising project evolves.
The first version of the game also includes “boosters” (which accelerate earnings), paid tasks and thematic daily and weekly quests. The team also plans to organize group tournaments where users can compete online, upgrade characters and expand the financial and gaming mechanics. These new features will make the gameplay even more fun and engaging, and the economy more realistic and varied.
Everything suggests that this game has the potential to take the market by storm and become a breakthrough in the Tap2Earn segment. Monsta immerses gamers in a radically different, richer gaming and financial experience and opens up new earning opportunities. This isn’t just “another tapper” on the market. It seems the developers aim to create a new narrative, a kind of “king” in the world of clickers, taking the Tap2Earn industry to a new, higher-quality level, as well as gamers’ incomes.
As we can see, a safe way to earn in the crypto market does exist. And when it can be combined with an interesting gaming process, it’s the best option possible. Are you already looking forward to the launch of Monsta?
Pepe Rektember could turn early investors into multi-millionaires, like other memecoins, such as Shiba Inu (SHIB) and Dogecoin (DOGE), did.
Pepe Rektember (PEPEREKT), a newly launched Solana memecoin, is set to explode over 16,000% in price in the coming days.
This is because PEPEREKT is set to soon be listed on numerous crypto exchanges, according to reports.
This will give the Solana memecoin exposure to millions of additional investors, who will pour funds into the coin and cause its price to rally, which will benefit investors who buy before these new exchange listings.
Currently, Pepe Rektember can only be purchased via Solana decentralized exchanges, like Jup.ag and Raydium.io, and early investors stand to make huge returns in the coming days.
Early investors in SHIB and DOGE made astronomical returns, and Pepe Rektember could become the next viral memecoin.
Pepe Rektember launched with over $8,000 of liquidity, giving it a unique advantage over the majority of other new memecoins, and early investors could make huge gains.
To buy Pepe Rektember on Raydium.io or Jup.ag ahead of the CEX listings, users need to connect their Solflare, MetaMask or Phantom wallet, and swap Solana for Pepe Rektember by entering its contract address – 2Ljnq1rNf2fzWwZGaHQkBteS1wrsbqiqtdVsxRhDWN6H – in the receiving field.
If you don’t have one of these wallets already, you can create a new wallet in a few minutes and transfer some Solana to it (which will then be used to buy the memecoin), from an exchange like Coinbase, Binance and many others.
Early investors could make returns similar to those who invested in Shiba Inu (SHIB) and Dogecoin (DOGE) before these memecoins went viral and exploded in price.
If this happens, a new wave of memecoin millionaires could be created in a matter of weeks – or potentially even sooner.
The Solana memecoin craze continues amid larger memecoins, like Shiba Inu (SHIB), Dogecoin (DOGE) and DogWifHat (WIF) trading sideways in recent weeks and losing momentum.
This is why many SHIB, DOGE and WIF investors are instead investing in new Solana memecoins, like PEPEREKT.
Such memecoins have no utility and no inherent value, but investors looking for high gains have been investing in them due to their potential to rapidly rise in price.
Musk Moon could turn early investors into multi-millionaires, like Shiba Inu (SHIB) and Dogecoin (DOGE) did.
Musk Moon (MUSKMOON), a new Solana memecoin that was launched today, is poised to explode over 17,000% in price in the coming days.
This is because MUSKMOON is set to soon be listed on numerous crypto exchanges, according to reports.
This will give the Solana memecoin exposure to millions of additional investors, who will pour funds into the coin and drive its price up.
Currently, Musk Moon can only be purchased via Solana decentralized exchanges, like Jup.ag and Raydium.io, and early investors stand to make huge returns in the coming days.
Early investors in SHIB and DOGE made astronomical returns, and Musk Moon could become the next viral memecoin.
Musk Moon launched with over $3,000 of liquidity, giving it a unique advantage over the majority of other new memecoins, and early investors could make huge gains.
To buy Musk Moon on Raydium.io or Jup.ag ahead of the CEX listings, users need to connect their Solflare, MetaMask or Phantom wallet, and swap Solana for Musk Moon by entering its contract address – EeALBZqKS9k4YCFngxwUynEpoKW8Mqf6hXDLuUHhGs1Q – in the receiving field.
If you don’t have one of these wallets already, you can create a new wallet in a few minutes and transfer some Solana to it (which will then be used to buy the memecoin), from an exchange like Coinbase, Binance and many others.
In fact, early investors could make returns similar to those who invested in Shiba Inu (SHIB) and Dogecoin (DOGE) before these memecoins went viral and exploded in price.
If this happens, a new wave of memecoin millionaires could be created in a matter of weeks – or potentially even sooner.
The Solana memecoin craze continues amid larger memecoins, like Shiba Inu (SHIB), Dogecoin (DOGE) and DogWifHat (WIF) trading sideways in recent weeks and losing momentum.
This is why many SHIB, DOGE and WIF investors are instead investing in new Solana memecoins, like MUSKMOON.
Such memecoins have no utility and no inherent value, but investors looking for high gains have been investing in them due to their potential to rapidly rise in price.
On September 8, Bitcoin (BTC) recorded another monthly low, with analysts cautioning about the risks should it fall below $54,000. During the Asian trading session, BTC/USD plummeted to $55,282 on Bitstamp, as observed by Cointelegraph Markets Pro and TradingView.
The downturn occurred as the cryptocurrency market anticipated crucial unemployment data from the United States, with Bitcoin struggling to recover from the six-month lows it reached on August 5. Analyst Caleb Franzen highlighted the precarious situation, pointing to the 200-day simple (SMA) and exponential (EMA) moving averages, which were positioned at $63,840 and $59,462, respectively. He noted the formation of a “cloud” between these averages, indicating potential market movements.
“If Bitcoin loses this green range and has a daily close below $54k (the low daily close on Aug. 5), I’ll concede that this is a formal rejection & new low on the 200-day MA cloud,” Franzen stated. He emphasized that a drop below this level would not be a bullish sign and would signify a significant shift in market trend.
Despite the bearish outlook, Franzen also identified a bullish divergence on September 5, noting an upward trend in Bitcoin’s relative strength index (RSI) despite the falling price. “Bitcoin in a short-term regression downtrend, but with a bullish RSI divergence that’s still intact,” he observed.
Concerns about Bitcoin’s direction were echoed by other traders. Arthur Hayes, former CEO of crypto exchange BitMEX, expressed his bearish stance by initiating a short position, anticipating the price to drop below $50,000 over the coming weekend.
Similarly, trader Peter Brandt spotted a megaphone pattern on the weekly chart, suggesting that the market could see a “massive thrust” into price discovery. Brandt indicated that a test of the lower boundary could bring prices down to around $46,000. He summarized the current market dynamics by saying, “A massive thrust into new ATHs is required to get this bull market back on track. Selling is stronger than buying in this pattern.”
Robinhood Markets’ cryptocurrency division has agreed to a $3.9 million settlement with the California Justice Department following accusations of restricting crypto withdrawals from 2018 to 2022.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced the settlement on September 4, marking it as the first public action by the California Department of Justice against a cryptocurrency company. Bonta alleged that Robinhood Crypto LLC breached state commodities laws by allowing customers to purchase cryptocurrencies without actually delivering the assets. Instead, customers were compelled to sell their holdings back to Robinhood to withdraw their funds.
Additionally, Bonta criticized Robinhood for inaccurately informing its customers that it held their crypto assets directly, when in fact, these were often held at other trading venues. He also pointed out that Robinhood falsely advertised connecting to multiple trading venues to secure competitive prices for its users, which was not consistently the case.
The settlement, formalized on August 31, does not involve an admission of guilt or denial of wrongdoing by Robinhood. However, it includes significant corrective measures. Robinhood is now required to enable direct crypto withdrawals to customer wallets and must make its trading, order handling, and custody processes transparent and compliant with the stipulated guidelines.
“Our investigation and settlement with Robinhood should send a strong message: Whether you’re a brick-and-mortar store or a cryptocurrency company, you must adhere to California’s consumer and investor protection laws,” Bonta stated, emphasizing the broader implications for industry compliance.
Robinhood’s general counsel, Lucas Moskowitz, responded to the settlement by stating, “We are pleased to put this matter behind us. The settlement fully resolves the Attorney General’s concerns related to historical practices, and we look forward to continuing to make crypto more accessible and affordable to everyone.”
Following the announcement, Robinhood (HOOD) shares experienced a minor downturn, closing down 1.34% at $19.11 on September 4, with a slight recovery in after-hours trading to $19.14, as reported by Google Finance.
Venga has recently unveiled a new crypto application tailored for the European market but accessible worldwide, now available on the iOS App Store. This app is designed to make blockchain services widely accessible and integrates a variety of financial crypto services into one seamless interface.
The app boasts an advanced user experience, featuring easy onboarding and a visually appealing design. It serves as a comprehensive platform for decentralized finance (DeFi) and Web3 technologies, allowing users to engage with a broad spectrum of crypto functionalities.
Venga’s CEO, Michael Stroev, expressed enthusiasm about the launch, stating, “We’re thrilled to launch Venga in Europe and provide access into the cryptosphere to the masses. For too long, crypto apps have been constrained by suboptimal UX and poor technology.
“Venga aims to fix all of these issues by placing the tools for decentralized finance in the hands of everyday users and providing the knowledge necessary to discover, invest, and navigate the digital economy.”
The application enables users to buy, sell, swap, transfer, and hold cryptocurrencies with ease. Plans for future updates include features like staking and exchange, alongside traditional finance (TradFi) functionalities and access to new decentralized markets such as real-world assets (RWA).
The development team behind Venga includes experienced professionals like CEO Michael Stroev, previously COO and Head of Product at Nebeus, CIO Mikhael Soschin, former CTO at Infintec, and other specialists with strong backgrounds in blockchain technology.
Venga’s design focuses on exceptional user experience and interface, positioning it as a superior alternative to existing crypto applications. The app is built on a robust technical base that enhances responsiveness and ease of use, promoting efficient navigation through the complexities of Web3.
Registered with the Bank of Spain and the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Poland as a Virtual Asset Service Provider and Custodian, Venga prioritizes transparency and compliance. It educates its users about blockchain through an informative blog and encourages practical engagement with its technologies, aiming to lower the barriers to crypto adoption and broaden its user base.