51 Insights – What Matters in Digital Assets

Hey, it’s Marc.“There is room for both gold and Bitcoin to coexist on central bank balance sheets by 2030.” — Deutsche Bank, in a new report released this week. Did you know that Norwegian and Swiss National Bank already have $700M+ of Bitcoin exposure by owning Strategy stocks? PS: Upgrade to Pro for our daily CEO Notes & market signals. Then: Citi came out with a new report and estimated the stablecoin market size to grow up to $4T by 2030. [Full report]🚨 We just opened new sponsorship slots for our newsletters & podcast. Want to reach 35k+ digital asset leaders? Contact us here. Then: Hyperliquid just minted its own dollar. USDH went live this week with ~$2.2M in first-day trading, giving the exchange a native currency to power its markets. The timing is sharp: only a week earlier, Circle launched USDC on Hyperliquid with new cross-chain rails spanning 14+ blockchains. The stage is set for a showdown between “platform-native” and “network-native” money. [Read more] Whereas, Tether seeks $20B raise at $500B valuation, rivaling OpenAI, among world’s most valuable private companies. Also this week: * House GOP pushes 401(k) access to crypto* Vanguard, the $10T asset manager, to launch crypto ETFs* CFTC moves to allow tokenised collateral in derivatives* HSBC expands tokenised deposits to cross-border corporate settlements* Morgan Stanley nears launch of crypto trading via E-Trade. LinkWe’ll unpack all of these highlights below. 👉 We launched a new newsletter on digital asset treasuries. Subscribe below! Top Boardroom Reads 👉Subscribe to our Crypto Treasury Alpha newsletter here.* A conversation with VP of Technology at Solana Foundation (51)* $20B DAT Surge (51)* Bitcoin vs. Gold: The Future of Central Bank Reserves by 2030 (Deutsche Bank)* Stablecoins 2030: Web3 to Wall Street (Citi)* How Bitcoin can Shape the Future of Wealth Management (Bitcoin Suisse)* OpenAI + NVIDIA: $100B Bet on 10GW AI Infrastructure (51)* Central bank money as a catalyst for fungibility: the case of stablecoins (ECB)* Vitalik on L2s (Vitalik Buterin)* Stablecoin for treasuries (BVNK)* HYPE’s Damocles Sword (Maelstrom)* Nasdaq TradeTalks: New Tech Is Driving Market Structure Evolution (DTCC)🙌 Work with us: We create pioneering thought leadership that helps digital asset and technology companies lead the conversation, earn trust and win business.Top Signals This WeekVanguard goes cryptoVanguard, the $10T asset manager, is about to roll out crypto ETF access across its platform, reaching 1 in 6 U.S. households. For years, Vanguard swore off Bitcoin ETFs, calling them “too volatile.”. In 2024, Vanguard’s head of ETFs, Janel Jackson, called Bitcoin “immature” and “without inherent value”. [NEWS]Why it matters: Even a 1% allocation from its client base = $100B in flows, bigger than entire crypto ETF categories today. Once access goes live, crypto ETFs move from the edges of retail investing into retirement accounts, long-term portfolios, and passive allocations.Our take: Vanguard’s CEO Salim Ramji literally built BlackRock’s Bitcoin ETF before joining Vanguard. BlackRock’s Bitcoin ETF IBIT is the most successful ETF in the company’s history: $80B in assets since its launch in Jan 05, 2024. He knows exactly what he’s walking away from. The timing isn’t coincidence: The SEC just introduced generic listing standards. Expect 100s of ETFs over the coming 8-12 months and an institutional inflow we’ve never seen before. 401(k)s open to cryptoOn Sept 22, House Republicans pressed SEC Chair Paul Atkins to fast-track rules letting 401(k)s invest in Bitcoin, Ethereum, private equity, and VC. This builds on Trump’s Aug 7 executive order directing regulators to clear the path. [NEWS]Our take: $9T sits in U.S. 401(k)s. Even a 1% allocation to crypto = ~$90B of new demand. For context, all U.S. spot BTC ETFs combined have ~$140B AUM today. This isn’t about retail traders, it’s about creating the largest long-term, dollar-cost-averaging inflow Bitcoin has ever seen. CFTC greenlights Stablecoins for derivativesThe Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has launched a formal initiative to allow tokenised collateral, including stablecoins, into U.S. derivatives markets. The plan: let traders use tokenised assets like stablecoins and money market funds (MMFs) as margin in derivatives markets. [RELEASE]Our take: This is the strongest signal yet that U.S. regulators will allow tokenised Money Market Funds (MMFs) and stablecoins as eligible collateral in the $600T global derivatives market (notional value). Collateral = the foundation of derivatives. Shifting from cash and Treasuries to tokenised instruments unlocks 24/7 liquidity, faster settlement, and lower capital costs. Hyperliquid’s stablecoinHyperliquid just launched its own stablecoin, USDH, with ~$2.2M in early trading volume against USDC. Native Markets, which beat Paxos, Frax, and Agora in a validator vote, is rolling out USDH as a fiat-backed token issued on HyperEVM and bridged across the Hyperliquid stack. Reserves sit in cash and short-dated Treasuries, with transparency via oracles and a feedback loop funneling earnings into HYPE buybacks. [NEWS] Our take: Stablecoin competition is no longer just Circle vs. Tether. Exchanges, L2s, and now trading platforms like Hyperliquid are pushing “house dollars” to own their settlement rails. USDH is an attempt to localise stablecoin utility, yield, and governance within the Hyperliquid ecosystem instead of letting profits flow out to external issuers like Circle (USDC).HSBC pushed the tokenised deposit service (TDS) in AsiaHSBC just expanded its tokenised deposit service (TDS) to cross-border corridors (Hong Kong ⇄ Singapore) and is eyeing scale into the UK/EU. It has completed its first live USD transfer between Hong Kong and Singapore for Ant International and is pitching 24/7 instant settlement as a new baseline for corporate treasury operations. So what? Stablecoins may have led the early race with speed and reach, but banks are striking back with their strongest asset: regulated deposits. By tokenising them, traditional financial institutions are creating digital money that delivers blockchain’s instant, programmable features with the safety, trust, and regulatory clarity only banks can offer. [ANNOUNCEMENT] $100B Bet on 10GW AI InfrastructureOpenAI and Nvidia signed a letter of intent: Nvidia may invest up to $100B in OpenAI to fund AI data centres using millions of Nvidia chips. [RELEASE] [See full story]So what: It is Nvidia pre-paying one of its largest customers to ensure demand. It validates that compute scarcity = strategy, as Nvidia is investing $100B just to guarantee demand and erecting a formidable moat against rivals like AMD, Intel, and Google’s in-house silicon.News Flash* Strive acquires Smeler Scientific. Link* Circle is exploring mechanisms to make USDC transactions reversible. Link* Anthony Scaramucci backs AVAX treasury aiming to raise $550M. Link* Morgan Stanley nears launch of crypto trading via E-Trade. Link* Swarm to offer nine tokenised stocks on the Plasma blockchain mainnet. Link* Forward Industries to tokenise stock, expanding Solana treasury and DeFi use. Link* World Liberty Financial to launch debit card and trading app soon. Link* Kraken and Legion launch the Yield Basis BTC protocol with merit-based sale. Link* Plasma launched a neobank, Plasma One. Link* Bank of Canada urges federal stablecoin rules to modernise payments, remittances. Link* UAE signs global crypto tax deal, launches consultation to shape rules. Link* China and South Korea launch CN and KRW stablecoins globally. Link* PayPal invests in Stable blockchain to expand PYUSD usage globally. Link* GSR proposes Digital Asset Treasury ETF. Link* Grayscale crypto index fund approved for ETF. LinkThat’s all for now, folks.Take care– Marc & TeamPS: Upgrade to Pro for our daily CEO Notes & market signals. * Check out our AI newsletter, AI Operator, here.* Check out our Crypto Treasury Alpha newsletter here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.51insights.xyz/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.51insights.xyzHey, it’s Marc. ✌️“Solana’s built to be the internet’s capital market fast, decentralized, and ready for the future.”We sat down with Matt Sorg, VP of Technology at Solana Foundation, for an insightful look into why Solana’s high-speed, low-cost blockchain is redefining how value moves globally.From his days leading AI at Unity to steering Solana’s tech vision, Matt’s journey reflects the cutting edge of blockchain innovation. Now, he’s helping Solana power everything from meme coins to institutional assets, with AI and quantum security on the horizon.We talked about:* Solana’s core philosophy: "Increased Bandwidth, Reduced Latency."* Why it’s the go-to for DeFi, NFTs, and DePIN* How Solana outpaces traditional finance* Preparing for a quantum-secure future* AI’s growing role in blockchain… and much more.Here are our key insights & take-aways. The Solana advantageMatt keeps it real about Solana’s edge:“Solana delivers internet-scale capital markets, moving value faster than anything out there.”Unlike traditional systems like Visa, which settle daily, Solana’s near-instant transactions let businesses scale at the speed of the internet. Think digital startups buying AI compute or tokenizing assets, Solana’s low fees and high throughput make it a no-brainer for innovators.Matt explained how Solana’s ecosystem thrives:

Hey, it’s Marc.The SEC approved “generic listing standards” that cut crypto ETF approvals from 240+ days to just 75. What this means: instead of only Bitcoin and Ethen reum ETFs, we could see 100+ new ETFs (Solana, XRP, DOGE, you name it) in the next 12 months. [More]On top of that, the Fed cut rates to 4.0–4.25% and signaled two more this year to support jobs: “Federal Reserve doesn't feel the need to move quickly on interest rate cuts.”— Jerome Powell, Chair of the Federal Reserve of the United StatesAnd if that weren’t enough, Google just launched the first open standard for AI agents to move money, including stablecoins. Pair this with PayPal rolling out crypto-native peer-to-peer payments and you see where payments are headed: programmable, instant, and borderless.Also this week: * MoneyGram, the world's largest on-off-ramp integrates stablecoins. * PayPal launches peer-to-peer crypto payments* Google launches open payment standard for agents, incl. crypto* Coinbase to launch Base token [deep dive]* Metamask launched mUSD stablecoin. * Ethereum Foundation forms an AI team. * Circle launches native USDC on HyperEVM. And much more…We’ll unpack all of these highlights below. 👉 We launched a new newsletter on digital asset treasuries. Subscribe below! Top Boardroom Reads * Stablecoins in focus: navigating the new digital financial landscape (EY)* The $1.6B Solana Treasury Bet, with Kyle Samani, Co-Founder of Multicoin Capital (51)* Weekly Digital Asset Treasury Update (51)* DAT Value Creation (Pantera Capital)* Digital Asset Alpha Letter August (FG Nexus)* Wall Street need a blockchain, that blockchain is Ethereum (Securitize)* BIS survey on central bank digital currencies and crypto (BIS)* How America weaponized crypto (51)* Circle vs. Hyperliquid (51)* Tempo, Libra, and the Illusion of Neutrality (Maja Vujinovic)🙌 Work with us: We create pioneering thought leadership that helps digital asset and technology companies lead the conversation, earn trust and win business.Top Signals This WeekGoogle: Agents are now moving stablecoinsGoogle announced the Agent Payments Protocol (AP2), the first open standard for AI agents making payments (incl. cards, real-time bank rails and stablecoins). The spec and reference code are live on GitHub, and the effort already includes 60+ payments, cards and web3 partners (Mastercard, AmEx, PayPal, Coinbase, Adyen and more). [Announcement] [Analysis]Why it matters: This is first enterprise-grade standard for AI agents to transact with stablecoins and crypto. AP2 includes x402, Coinbase ’s extension for agent-to-agent stablecoin payments. That means AI agents can now send stablecoins across wallets natively on blockchain rails.Go deeper: The protocol solves three core problems that break traditional payments when a bot buys for you: authorization (did the user actually pre-authorize this agent for this task?), authenticity (does the cart reflect the user’s intent?) and accountability (who owns liability if something goes wrong?).So what? This is Google saying: "Agent commerce with digital money is happening. Here's the standard." The future of payments won’t look like Stripe or Visa. It’ll look like agents moving stablecoins on open protocols.SEC opens crypto ETF floodgatesThe SEC approved Generic Listing Standards for crypto ETFs. Instead of 240-day, case-by-case filings, any token with a regulated futures market and six months of price history now qualifies for a spot ETF, with a standardized 75-day approval window.* Bitcoin took 11 years to get one ETF.* Now, expect 100+ ETFs in the next 12 months (Solana, XRP, DOGE, and more).* Grayscale’s multi-crypto ETF with BTC, ETH, XRP, SOL, and ADA was approved alongside.Why it matters: This marks the systemic shift. ETFs give pensions and institutions the cleanest on-ramp, with BTC and ETH ETF assets already tripling to $175B in a year. 59% of institutions now plan 5%+ crypto allocation. With rates falling and approvals now standardized, altcoin ETFs like Solana and XRP are inevitable, accelerating adoption and locking digital assets into Wall Street’s core product shelf.MoneyGram integrates stablecoinsMoneyGram, the world's largest on-off-ramp, launched a next-gen mobile app in Colombia that delivers inbound remittances as instant, USD-backed stablecoin balances (USDC), powered by Stellar and Crossmint. It is letting recipients hold, spend, or cash out dollars instead of local pesos, disrupting $860B remittances market. MoneyGram is the largest cash on/off ramp with nearly 500,000 retail locations across 170+ countries. [RELEASE] [Analysis]So what? With the peso down 40% in 4 years and $11.8B flowing in remittances, Colombians need dollar stability. If MoneyGram wins just 5% share, that’s $592M in USD wallets, shifting the battle from moving money to owning the customer’s balance.Why it matters: Remittances are a $860B market ripe for disruption, with blockchain slashing fees from ~10% to near zero. MoneyGram’s stablecoin app in Colombia is just the start, the real race is who scales dollar wallets across global corridors first.Circle vs. HyperliquidDays after Hyperliquid voted to launch USDH, a native stablecoin designed to funnel yield back into the protocol, Circle dropped its counterpunch: native USDC on Hyperliquid, complete with CCTP V2 for seamless cross-chain transfers across 14+ blockchains. [RELEASE] [Full Analysis]So what? Circle’s play is classic defence: drop native USDC + CCTP right after the USDH vote to remind Hyperliquid that USDC’s moat isn’t just liquidity, it’s trust and institutional rails. But this is bigger than Circle vs. USDH. Hyperliquid has become the test case for the “protocol state” — platforms using governance and market power to force issuers to share yield and align with the ecosystem. The fight is simple:* USDH → share the yield, keep value in the protocol* USDC → stay safe, stay liquid, stay globalCoinbase to launch Base tokenAfter years of denying it, Coinbase confirmed it is exploring a token for its Ethereum L2, Base. No design or timeline yet, but it’s now public strategy. [Tweet] [Full Analysis]Why it matters: With 13M daily txns, 865K active addresses, $5B TVL, and $1.28B in daily DEX volume, Base already outpaces Arbitrum and Optimism on activity. A token launch would instantly create a top-tier L2 asset and Coinbase’s $84B market cap adds a “Coinbase premium” that could push valuation to the $8B–$10B range.So what: Coinbase isn’t launching a token just to pump Base. They’re rewriting the growth story: from an exchange business to a platform + ecosystem giant.PayPal launches peer-to-peer crypto paymentsPayPal is launching PayPal Links, one-time, personalized payment links that let a sender drop a private, single-use payment into any conversation (text, DM, email); the feature debuts in the U.S. today, with the UK, Italy and more rolling out later this month. [RELEASE] [Analysis]Why it matters: Unlike Zelle®, Apple Pay or Venmo, these links work everywhere. No app switching, no friction. Right now, PayPal Links are just a smoother UX over PayPal’s existing payment rails. The real disruption: With crypto (coming soon), money can leave PayPal’s walled garden and move 𝘵𝘰 𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘱𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘣𝘭𝘦 crypto wallet. Money will move on blockchain rails, instantly, globally, at cents-per-transaction, bypassing banks. So what? PayPal is collapsing discovery → payment → settlement into a single shareable artifact, which (1) reduces merchant and checkout friction in conversational channels, (2) increases instant on-platform balances (creating float and product expansion opportunities), and (3) normalises crypto/stablecoin as a native settlement option inside mainstream P2P flows. News Flash* AI agents can use Circle wallets to unlock and pay for APIs. Link* SEC greenlights Grayscale crypto index fund conversion to ETF. Link* The Ethereum Foundation just announced the creation of its first AI-focused group, the dAI Team. Link* Amex now gives travellers digital passport stamps as NFTs. Link* SBI and global banks test real-time cross-border tokenised settlements. Link* UBS and Swiss banks trial tokenised deposits on the Ethereum blockchain. Link* London Stock Exchange launches blockchain platform for tokenized private funds. Link* Apollo tokenizes credit strategy as Grove invests $50M in ACRDX. Link* MetaMask's mUSD stablecoin went live. Link* Bitwise files with the SEC to launch a spot Avalanche ETF. Link* Santander’s Openbank now lets German retail clients trade crypto. Link* Forward Industries launches $4B share sale to expand Solana treasury. Link* DBS, Franklin Templeton, and Ripple launch tokenized money market fund. LinkThat’s all for now, folks.Take care– Marc & Team🚀 Work with us: We create pioneering thought leadership that helps digital asset and technology companies lead the conversation, earn trust and win business.* Check out our AI newsletter, AI Operator, here.* Check out our Crypto Treasury Alpha newsletter here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.51insights.xyz/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.51insights.xyzHey, it’s Marc. ✌️“Solana is the foundation for Internet Capital Markets. And we’re building the most on-chain public company in the world to prove it.”We sat down with Kyle Samani — co-founder of Multicoin Capital, early Solana backer, and now Chairman of Forward Industries — a newly launched $1.65B Solana treasury company backed by Multicoin, Galaxy Digital, and Jump [RELEASE]. 📈 NASDAQ: FORD"We are now the largest Solana DAT Treasury company in the world. And I can tell you our aspirations are a lot greater than that. We just got to the starting line and we're sprinting."Kyle’s not new to making bold bets. From launching Multicoin in 2017 to leading Solana’s seed round in 2018, his views have often been early — and right. Now he’s taking that same conviction to public markets and is betting everything on Solana's internet capital markets vision.We talked about:* Why Forward Industries raised $1.65B for Solana (not Bitcoin)* The MNAV premium game and what happens in bear markets* How treasury companies can actually outperform holding crypto directly* Solana vs Ethereum* Why corporate layer ones will fail* The timeline for internet capital markets going mainstreamLet’s jump in. Why FORD exists“It’s not enough to just buy Solana and trade at a premium. We want to rebuild capital markets on-chain.”Kyle sees Forward Industries as the first fully on-chain public company — not just buying SOL, but running payroll, governance, dividends, and vendor payments entirely on-chain.The vision:* Public company treasury model, but with real utility and cash flow* On-chain fundraising and operations* Yield from Solana DeFi, staking, and credit arbitrageThey’ve already secured ~$1.65B, including personal capital from Kyle and institutional backers. Up to 75% of capitalcame from TradFi institutions, including pensions, endowments, and sovereigns.Solana > ETFsKyle breaks down why treasury companies can outperform ETFs:“ETFs give you fixed exposure. But with a treasury company, you can grow the asset per share through yield, arbitrage, and M&A.”His strategy:

Hey, it’s Marc.This week felt like a turning point. Nasdaq tokenizing stocks, Tether entering the US, Fidelity moving Treasuries onchain, Franklin Templeton plugging into Binance, and then, this: “Crypto’s time has come. Most crypto tokens are not securities, and we will draw the lines clearly. We must ensure that entrepreneurs can raise capital on-chain without endless legal uncertainty.” — SEC chair Paul AtkinsWow. On top of that, we’ve all been glued to the Hyperliquid showdown and why Circle is about to lose 10% of its yearly revenue. We’ll unpack all of these highlights below. 👉 Crypto Treasury Alpha: Subscribe to our newsletter on digital asset treasury vehicles as long as it’s free 👇Top Boardroom Reads * Stablecoin and the Future of Finance (IMF). How stablecoins reshape payments and challenge monetary control.* The New Entertainment Economy (51). How blockchain is rewriting music & media economics.* Blockchains as emerging economies (Fidelity). A framework to value chains as digital nations.* The stablecoin moment (State Street). GENIUS Act and its global market fallout.* 1 Million Bitcoin (Fiftyone). A snapshot digital asset treasuries.* Tempo, Libra, and the Illusion of Neutrality (Maja Vujinovic). Why both corporate and open chains will win. 🙌 Work with us: We create pioneering thought leadership that helps digital asset and technology companies lead the conversation, earn trust and win business.Top Signals This WeekTether goes U.S.What happened: Tether is launching USAT, its first U.S.-compliant stablecoin in December. Anchorage Digital will issue, Cantor Fitzgerald will custody, and Bo Hines (ex-White House digital asset advisor) will run Tether U.S.Why it matters:* Direct shot at Circle: Tether already prints $13B in yearly profits vs. Circle’s $156M. With USAT, Tether now invades Circle’s regulatory home turf.* Boost for ETH & Tron: 78% of USDT supply lives on these chains — expect more flow as USAT scales.* Dollar dominance: Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said it best: “We’re going to keep the U.S. the dominant reserve currency in the world — and we’re going to use stablecoins to do that.”So what? This is about who controls the rails of the dollar in the digital era. USDT has a $180B market cap today. I expect 100s of billions to be flowing into USAT over the next years. And Tether just went from offshore giant to U.S. player with Washington ties, Wall Street custody, and a clear regulatory framework.NASDAQ tokenizes stocks starting 2026Nasdaq has filed with the SEC to tokenize every stock on its exchange starting 2026.If approved, every listed share will trade in two forms:* traditional digital (today’s rails)* tokenized blockchain version (new rails)Same order book. Same rights. Same execution priority.Dive deeper: Nasdaq won’t run its own chain. Instead, it’s tapping DTCC’s AppChain, built on Hyperledger Besu (Ethereum-compatible), with a working group that includes Citi, Mastercard, Visa, Santander, Consensys, and Accenture.Why it matters: Tokenized assets are $28B today. Ripple + BCG project $18.9T by 2033. Until now, “tokenized stocks” were mostly wrappers and derivatives with no shareholder rights (Robinhood, Kraken). This would be different: issuer-recognized, regulator-approved, real equities onchain. And once stocks settle on blockchain, the rest of Wall Street will follow. This could be a once-in-a-generation overhaul of capital markets.Circle about to lose 10% of its yearly revenueWhat happened: Hyperliquid, a DEX with $700M TVL and more daily protocol revenue than Ethereum and Solana, wants its own native stablecoin: USDH. We’re witnessing one of the biggest showdowns in crypto right now. [NEWS]Why it matters: Hyperliquid has $5.5B in stablecoins sitting on it today. Most of that is USDC, on which Circle quietly collects the interest. At current rates that’s ~$200M a year (almost 10% of its revenue). Zero flows back to Hyperliquid. With a native USDH, that value could be captured by the Hyperliquid ecosystem instead. [ANALYSIS]Now Paxos, Ethena, Agora, Sky (MakerDAO), Frax, Native Markets and others are all competing with proposals ranging from BlackRock-backed reserves to PayPal integrations to fully decentralized issuance. The final vote will happen on September 14. The twist: Whoever issues USDH must share the yield back to the ecosystem, pay validators, fund the assistance pool, and buy back HYPE. That revenue could grow to $1B+ a year as stablecoin balances scale. Bottom line: Winning USDH doesn’t guarantee revenue, but it grants brand legitimacy, the seal of being Hyperliquid’s “native” stablecoin. Even if no proposal hits escape velocity, the network wins.Fidelity joins tokenization raceWhat happened: Fidelity just launched its $204M Fidelity Digital Interest Token (FDIT) ($16.4T AUA) on Ethereum, a tokenized Treasury MMF, making it the second mega-asset manager (after BlackRock’s $2.2B BUIDL fund) to move assets onchain. Ondo Finance is the anchor investor, with 99% of FDIT’s assets tied to its OUSG fund. [ANNOUNCEMENT]So what? This instantly makes Fidelity one of the largest players in the $7B tokenized Treasuries market and a direct challenger to BlackRock’s BUIDL. With $12T AUM, the potential pipeline is enormous.Devil’s advocate: FDIT already has 99% exposure to Ondo’s OUSG. If Ondo’s inflows stall or reverse, Fidelity’s on-chain MMF looks illiquid.Dive deeper: FDIT is ERC20-native, recording ownership, transfers, and settlement directly onchain. JPMorgan, Fidelity, and BlackRock are already using tokenized MMFs as collateral, proving real efficiency gains in settlement, margining, and capital flows.Big picture: Tokenisation is moving from pilots into production. BlackRock, Kraken, R3, Solana are pushing tokenised stocks, MMFs, bonds, real estate, and more.Bonus: Fidelity released a report where it compared tokenization to American Depositary Receipts (ADRs), concluding it as the blockchain equivalent of moving an offshore asset to be recognized for investment and trading in a local market. Franklin Templeton partners with BinanceFranklin Templeton ($1.6T AUM) partners with Binance (300M users) to build "tokenized financial products" that merge: [ANNOUNCEMENT]* Franklin’s compliant tokenization (BENJI platform + tokenized funds)* Binance’s global trading infrastructure + investor reachThis dwarfs any pervious partnerships.* BlackRock x Coinbase? US only.* JPMorganChase x Coinbase? 80M users, US only.* Franklin x Binance? 300M users + global markets + retail & institutions.Tokenized funds won’t sit in a silo; they’ll trade at scale. And 300M Binance users = instant distribution.Stepping back: Franklin Templeton was the first incumbent to launch tokenised money market funds in 2021 with FOBXX, now live on eight blockchains, and this year launched the first fully tokenised UCITS SICAV fund in Luxembourg.So what? The line between TradFi and DeFi is blurring faster than most investors realize.News Flash* BBVA brings crypto custody on-chain with Ripple. Link* SEC’s plan to let companies raise capital directly on-chain under clear rules. Link* SEC delays BlackRock’s Ethereum staking ETF, plus XRP and Solana funds. Link* DTCC released institutional-grade upgrades on its collateral appchain. Link* Ant Digital tokenises $8.4B in China’s renewable energy assets. Link* Solowin Holdings (NASDAQ: $SWIN ) acquires AlloyX, a stablecoin infrastructure provider, for $350M. Link* Kraken acquires Breakout, an evaluation-based proprietary trading firm. Link* Tetra Digital Group to launch Canada’s first regulated stablecoin in 2026. Link* R3 hits $17B in tokenised assets, launches Labs on Solana. Link* Trump Media plans five America First ETFs, pending SEC approval. Link* Grayscale files for BCH, LTC and HBAR ETFs. Link* Hong Kong to launch wholesale CBDC and tokenised interbank deposits. Link* Oracle jumped 40%+ and added nearly $250B of market value (currently $922B) in a single session. Read the full AI storyThat’s all for now, folks.Take care– Marc & Team🚀 Work with us: We create pioneering thought leadership that helps digital asset and technology companies lead the conversation, earn trust and win business.* Check out our AI newsletter, AI Operator, here.* Check out our Crypto Treasury Alpha newsletter here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.51insights.xyz/subscribe

Hi, it’s Marc. ✌️“BNB is the most overlooked blue-chip crypto asset in the space. It’s tied to the largest company in crypto, and yet Western investors still don’t fully get it.”We sat down with David Namdar — hedge fund veteran, Bitcoin OG, Galaxy Digital co-founder — now CEO of BNB Network Company (BNC), a $500M digital asset treasury betting big on BNB.David has been in crypto for more than a decade. From attempting one of the first Bitcoin ETFs at SolidX, to building Galaxy Digital with Mike Novogratz, to now leading a digital treasury platform for BNB, his journey mirrors the evolution of crypto itself.We talked about: * Why treasury companies are exploding now* BNB as “digital infrastructure equity”* and why he believes BNB is positioned to outperform Bitcoin over the next five years.… and much more.The treasury company explosionDavid keeps it simple about what Michael Saylor achieved:"He's been able to accumulate over 3% of the Bitcoin supply. At current prices, that's $70B."The playbook: Take corporate cash, buy Bitcoin, trade at a premium, sell more equity, buy more Bitcoin. Repeat.Five years ago, MicroStrategy was a struggling software company worth under $1B with $400-500M in cash. Today, it's over $100B with $70-80B in Bitcoin."The market loved it and traded at a premium. Then, he started creating this idea of a flywheel where he could sell more equity or sell debt in order to buy more Bitcoin.But it took validation time. David explains why other companies are following now:"After the model has been kind of validated over the last five years by Saylor, and then a couple of the more recent ones that have succeeded, MetaPlanet in Japan...it went from having $1-2B market cap to $5-10B."That strategy proved two things:* Bitcoin works as a corporate treasury reserve.* Markets will reward bold execution with premiums.The BNB thesisHere's David's core argument: BNB is systematically undervalued because U.S. investors don't understand what they're missing."Iimagine if in the U.S. we didn't have access to Apple, Google, Facebook, now Meta. Imagine if the largest social network, the largest tech company, something like Nvidia, was entirely outside of the U.S. market."The numbers back this up. Binance has 290M users. Most use BNB to pay reduced gas fees. All of that activity drives token burns and value accrual."BNB then is kind of this digital infrastructure equity of the entire Web3 universe. It actually has more activity in stablecoins than Ethereum does."David's positioning framework:* Bitcoin = digital gold* Ethereum = digital oil* BNB = digital infrastructure equityWhy treasuries matter now: Unlike past cycles, this time the U.S. regulatory environment has opened up, making it easier to bring corporate structures and capital markets into crypto.David estimates $100–200B will flow into digital treasuries over the next year, not through exchanges, but through public-market vehicles that institutional investors can buy.That means:* More disciplined capital allocation* Less froth around meme coins* More focus on blue-chip digital assets“Our job is to accumulate as much of the asset as possible — with discipline.”Digital asset treasuries vs. ETFsIt is simple. With an ETF, you always own the same amount of underlying asset per share. With treasury companies, successful execution can multiply your holdings.David breaks it down:"If they succeed at executing on the strategy and selling at a premium and getting the flywheel going...then you can end up with significantly more of the underlying asset per share than what you started with."But he warns against hype chasing:"What ends up happening a lot of the time with these treasury companies is there's an announcement that gets made. The stock jumps up 5-20x and investors rush in and immediately are down 50-80%."His advice: Wait a few days, understand the strategy, and verify the team can execute.The premium questionArthur Hayes thinks that NAV premiums will decline. David agrees, but with nuance:"We are going to see a lot of the premiums decline, but we're also going to see some of them persist for a lot longer than people think."His math: Outside MicroStrategy, there's $30-50B in treasury assets with $10-25B in premiums. He expects $100-200B more capital to flow in over the next year."During that process...that 10, 20, 30 billion of premium that [MicroStrategy has] will probably go to some of these other companies that are more capable to actually accumulate the underlying asset."Key takeawaysHere are some key takeaways David shared for public companies and institutional investors:* Digital asset treasuries are the next big capital market vehicle: Expect $100B–$200B to flow into crypto treasuries (beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum) over the next 12 months, skipping exchanges and going directly into corporate treasury vehicles.* Premiums will redistribute, not disappear: While some NAV premiums will compress, successful treasury companies with strong execution will capture value from weaker players. Access to capital markets during downturns determines survival.* Infrastructure matters more than hype: The winners will be treasury companies with experienced teams, diverse capital access, and focus on long-term asset accumulation rather than short-term price pumps.* BNB positioned for AI + Robotics transaction growth: BNB’s lower cost structure vs. Ethereum/Solana makes it the likely leader for AI, robotics, and trillions of microtransactions. BNB is evolving into the infrastructure chain and can provide AI and blockchain companies with scalability advantages.Take care, MarcMore from us:🚀 Work with us: We create pioneering thought leadership that helps digital asset and technology companies lead the conversation, earn trust and win business. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.51insights.xyz/subscribe

Hey, it’s Marc.The big story this week: Stripe is launching its own “blockchain for payments.” Circle has Arc. Google has GCUL. Who's operating the nodes? How decentralized is this? How do the validator economics look like?Here’s the truth: these aren’t blockchains. They’re databases with extra cryptography and political and legal overhead. Meanwhile, the real progress is happening in open protocols: Ondo moving stocks on Ethereum, Galaxy putting its equity on Solana, and Aave turning RWAs into collateral.Interesting fact: For the first time, public companies now hold over 1M Bitcoin, nearly 5% of the supply. In just five years, corporate treasuries have amassed $110B in Bitcoin, echoing gold’s role as a reserve asset.👉 Crypto Treasury Alpha: We launched another newsletter covering institutional moves and digital asset treasury vehicles. Subscribe below 👇Also, our highlights this week:* Stripe and Paradigm launch Tempo, its L1 for payments* Fireblocks launches the Network for Payments* Ondo lists 100+ tokenised U.S. stocks and ETFs on Ethereum* Galaxy puts Nasdaq stock directly onchain * Aave turns RWAs into DeFi collateralAnd much more.Top Boardroom Reads * Why Digital Asset Adoption Is Accelerating (Goldman Sachs). An interview with Matthew McDermott, Global Head of Digital Assets.* DeFi Is Following The SaaS And Fintech Playbooks (Ark Invest). It explores the evolution of Decentralised Finance (DeFi), drawing parallels to historical unbundling and rebundling cycles observed in SaaS and fintech industries.* The New Entertainment Economy (Fiftyone). A webinar with industry leaders and builders from CreatorFi, EVEN, and Republic Film unpacking blockchain as an infrastructure in the music and entertainment space. * 6 myths about privacy on blockchains (a16z crypto). It addresses six common misconceptions about privacy on blockchains, emphasising that concerns about new technologies and privacy are not new, dating back to the telegraph.* Money’s new operating system (51). An fintech-focused stablecoin report.* The Great Chain Debate (Maja Vujinovic). Explores in a why centralzed blockchains from Stripe and Cricle won’t win. We agree. 🙌 Work with us: We create pioneering thought leadership that helps digital asset and technology companies lead the conversation, earn trust and win business.Top Signals This WeekStripe builds its own blockchainStripe and Paradigm just launched Tempo, a blockchain purpose-built for payments. Co-designed with Visa, Deutsche Bank, Shopify, Nubank, OpenAI, and Anthropic, it comes with features like fiat-denominated fees and batch transfers (critical for payrolls and remittances, irrelevant for trading). [RELEASE]So what? Stripe isn’t saying “Tempo is the stablecoin chain.” They’re saying “Tempo is the payments chain.” It is working with top banks, which can plug their tokenised deposits into their infrastructure. Plus, Tempo’s design, fiat-denominated fees and batch payments are positioning it as the “neutral”, Stripe-grade settlement layer for finance. Our take: This is Stripe’s play to control the money rails. Just like Google with GCUL and Circle with Arc, the strategy is simple: own the chain, own the money. But here’s the catch: corporate blockchains always face the same wall: they can’t solve the trust problem. IBM’s Hyperledger fizzled, Meta’s Libra collapsed under regulatory pressure. Institutions like BlackRock or governments won’t settle trillions on rails owned by one company. They need neutral, credibly open infrastructure. Fireblocks launches the SWIFT of stablecoinsWhat happened: Fireblocks unveiled its Network for Payments, already processing $200B/month in stablecoin flows across 300+ firms, 40+ providers, and 100+ countries. Participants include Circle, Bridge (Stripe’s $1B acquisition), and major OTC desks, PSPs, and banks. The single API lets companies move, convert, and settle stablecoins globally without stitching together fragmented rails. [RELEASE]So what: Unlike Stripe’s Tempo (payments-focused L1) or Circle’s Arc (USDC-centric), Fireblocks isn’t building its own chain. It’s building the connectivity + orchestration layer across all chains and issuers. Think SWIFT, but for stablecoins:* Multi-issuer: Supports USDC, USDT, PYUSD, EURC, and others* Multi-rail: Works across blockchains, banks, and on/off-rampsThis neutral position matters. Again: No one wants to settle trillions on rails owned by one firm. Fireblocks sidesteps that trap: it doesn’t care which stablecoin or chain wins, it just moves the money.Punchline: While Stripe and Circle fight to own the rails, Fireblocks may quietly own the plumbing. And in payments, plumbing is where the real power sits.📈 Ondo puts 100+ U.S. stocks on EthereumWhat happened: Ondo Finance launched Ondo Global Markets, offering more than 100 tokenized U.S. stocks and ETFs on Ethereum, with support for Solana and BNB Chain to follow. Assets are backed 1:1 by U.S.-registered broker-dealers, transferable onchain 24/7, and integrated with wallets and protocols like BitGo, Ledger, 1inch, and LayerZero. [NEWS]So what: Stablecoins exported the dollar. Ondo wants to export the entire U.S. stock market.* Access: Ondo plans to scale to 1,000 assets by year-end, giving eligible investors in APAC, Europe, Africa, and LatAm onchain access to U.S. equities.* Liquidity: Tokens plug into DeFi rails for lending, collateral, and yield, beyond just “buy and hold.”* Scale: Competes directly with Kraken’s xStocks, Robinhood’s EU tokenized equities, and Coinbase’s pending U.S. tokenized stock play.The implications are massive for emerging markets. Buying U.S. equities today often requires complex FX, intermediaries, and high fees.Galaxy puts Nasdaq stock directly onchainGalaxy Digital just became the first Nasdaq-listed company to tokenise its SEC-registered public equity directly on Solana via Superstate’s Opening Bell. Unlike wrappers or synthetics, these tokens are legal GLXY shares with real shareholder rights, updated in real-time by Superstate as transfer agent. [RELEASE]So what? Most tokenised stocks so far (Kraken xStocks, FTX-era synthetics) were derivatives without issuer participation. In Galaxy’s model, shares are issued and recognised by the company itself, unlocking direct regulatory legitimacy and legal clarity. This signals that if equities can live onchain with full compliance, capital markets infrastructure is about to compress settlement times from days to seconds.Aave turns RWAs into DeFi collateralAave just launched Horizon, a lending market where institutions can borrow stablecoins against tokenised Treasuries, loans, and funds. At launch, collateral comes from Circle, Superstate, and Centrifuge, with backers like Ripple, VanEck, and WisdomTree in the mix. [RELEASE]So what? Until now, tokenized Treasuries and other RWAs were largely dead weight in DeFi, isolated from lending markets and capital-inefficient. Horizon changes that by making RWAs productive collateral. Qualified investors can post RWAs and borrow stablecoins; anyone can supply stablecoins (RLUSD, USDC, GHO) and earn yield from institutional borrowers.News Flash* Jack Ma's Yunfeng Financial Group bought $44M of ETH. Link* US SEC unveils agenda to revamp crypto policies, ease Wall Street rules* FIS launches AI-powered treasury suite. Link* VersaBank USA launches pilot for tokenised, FDIC-insured deposit receipts. Link* ~40% of daily code at Coinbase is AI-generated. Link* Trump family secures $5B paper fortune from WLFI crypto token launch. Link* Gemini just launched an XRP-branded credit card with Ripple. LinkThat’s all for now, folks.Take care– Marc & Team🚀 Work with us: We create pioneering thought leadership that helps digital asset and technology companies lead the conversation, earn trust and win business.* Check out our AI newsletter, AI Operator, here.* Check out our Crypto Treasury Alpha newsletter here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.51insights.xyz/subscribe

Hey, it’s Marc.“Ethereum is the Wall Street token.” That’s not crypto Twitter talking. It’s Jan van Eck, CEO of VanEck. His point is simple: every bank will need rails for stablecoins, and they’ll ask where to build them. His answer: Ethereum.That’s the backdrop this week as Google is building its own blockchain, Mastercard embeds stablecoins, and Rain made stablecoins swipeable at 150M Visa merchants. 👉 Crypto Treasury Alpha: We launched another newsletter covering institutional moves and digital asset treasury vehicles. Subscribe below 👇Also, our highlights this week:* Google is building its own blockchain, CME already testing it* Mastercard goes stablecoin-native, settlement live across EEMEA* U.S. puts macro data onchain* Rain raises $58M, makes stablecoins spendable at 150M+ merchants* Solana gets $1B Wall Street treasury vehicle, Galaxy, Jump, Multicoin leadingAnd much more.🚨Save your spot for our upcoming webinar!We’ll unpack how artists, music labels and filmmakers can strategically leverage blockchain to unlock direct-to-fan monetisation, onchain royalties, fan engagement and film financing. Spots are limited!Subscribe here to get notified of our upcoming events.Top Boardroom Reads * Ethereum meet Wall Street (Joseph Lubin). His take on SharpLink, Fundstrat and the future of Ethereum. * The productive treasury: A corporate guide to integrating Ethereum and digitalasset staking (Eigenlayer). * Google’s new Layer 1 blockchain (Rich Widmann). * Money’s new operating system (51). An fintech-focused stablecoin report. * Bitcoin Long-Term Capital Market Assumptions (Bitwise). The report details the macroeconomic factors influencing Bitcoin's outlook, such as rising U.S. debt, fiat debasement risks, friendlier regulation, and institutional adoption. * The State of Crypto Venture Capital in 2025 (Pantera Capital). Paul talked about how 2025 marks crypto’s most mature cycle yet, defined by record M&A and IPO activity, regulatory clarity, and convergence with AI, payments, and global finance.* Building the Stripe of Crypto Payments (51). A podcast with Iron CEO on how stablecoins are becoming the new rails for global finance.* The future of money is onchain (51). A discussion with the CEOs of OpenTrade and Ubyx on stablecoin use cases, infrastructure and programmatic yield. * The Relative Benefits and Risks of Stablecoins as a Means of Payment (BCA Research). The paper discusses the utility of stablecoins for retail payments through an objective, evidence-based approach that compares stablecoins with traditional retail payment methods.🙌 Work with us: We create pioneering thought leadership that helps digital asset and technology companies lead the conversation, earn trust and win business.Top Signals This WeekGoogle launches its own blockchainGoogle announced the Google Cloud Universal Ledger (GCUL), its own layer-1 blockchain earlier this year. It’s EVM-compatible, Python-programmable, and already being tested with CME Group for payments and tokenisation. Now, the announcement has gained new traction from a LinkedIn post of Google’s Web3 lead. [NEWS]Why it matters: GCUL isn’t just another chain. It’s Google applying the same playbook Stripe and Circle are running: own the rails, own the money. But here’s the catch: history is littered with failed corporate chains (IBM’s Hyperledger, Meta’s Libra). Why? Because centralized blockchains can’t solve the trust problem. Institutions like BlackRock or governments issuing digital currencies need credibly neutral, public infrastructure, not rails owned by one company. Don’t confuse distribution with trust. [OUR TAKE]Mastercard goes stablecoin-native What happened: Mastercard and Circle are rolling out stablecoin settlement (USDC + EURC) across Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. For the first time, acquirers on Mastercard’s network can settle merchant payments in stablecoins instead of waiting days for fiat bank wires [RELEASE]. Why it matters: Merchants don’t get paid directly, acquirers do. Embedding stablecoins into the acquiring stack means:* Faster payouts → no waiting days for cross-border payouts* Lower costs → stablecoin rails vs legacy correspondent bankingThis is Mastercard putting stablecoins at the core of commerce rails, sidestepping banks and owning the flow of settlement [OUR TAKE].U.S. Government puts macroeconomic data onchainThe U.S. Department of Commerce (via the BEA) and Chainlink are publishing official GDP, inflation (PCE), and consumer demand metrics onchain across 10 blockchains (Ethereum, Arbitrum, Avalanche, etc.). These feeds are secure, audited, and enterprise-grade. [Announcement]Why it matters: Onchain GDP and inflation data embed macro directly into enterprise workflows:* Payments: stablecoin treasuries auto-adjust yields to inflation* Lending: DeFi loans auto-adjust rates if PCE spikes* Risk: automated hedges trigger on macro releasesThis bridged the gap between Wall Street workflows and onchain finance. Instead of reconciling off-chain feeds, institutions get real-time, tamper-proof data where they already operate, making blockchains not just transaction rails, but macro-aware financial infrastructure.Stablecoins you can swipeStablecoin platform Rain raised $58M (Series B led by Sapphire Ventures), bringing total funding to $88.5M just 5 months after its $30M Series A. The company reports 10x transaction growth YTD and says its rails now reach 1.5B+ people across 150 countries via Visa, wallets, and on/off-ramps. [RELEASE] [OUR TAKE]Why it matters: Stablecoins have $283B in circulation — but most are stuck on balance sheets, not in daily commerce. Rain fixes that by making stablecoins:* Spendable: direct settlement at 150M+ Visa merchants* Scalable: one API for money-in, storage, and payouts* Enterprise-ready: PCI, SOC 2, and audited contractsThis shifts stablecoins from “treasury assets” to operating capital that businesses can actually use for payroll, merchant payouts, and cross-border spend.🚨Download our latest stablecoin for a deep dive on RainSolana gets a $1B Wall Street vehicleWhat happened: Galaxy, Jump Crypto, and Multicoin Capital are raising $1B (with Cantor Fitzgerald as banker) to launch the largest Solana treasury company. Think of it as Solana’s de-facto ETF alternative: investors buy shares in a public vehicle that holds SOL, earns staking yield, and offers leveraged exposure.Why it matters: Bitcoin and Ethereum already have ETFs (11 BTC, 8 ETH) and multiple treasury companies (MicroStrategy, Metaplanet, SharpLink, FG Nexus, Bitmine). Solana has neither.This treasury vehicle:* Becomes the default institutional on-ramp to Solana* Offers 3–5% yield from staking + DeFi (vs. zero from ETFs)* Bridges SOL into capital markets, not just crypto exchangesOur take: Forget waiting on a Solana ETF. Wall Street just built one with yield.News Flash* Tron cuts fees 60% to protect $81B USDT dominance. [Link]* US banks lobbying to amend GENIUS [Link]* Citi’s tokenisation plan with Citi Integrated Digital Asset Platform (CIDAP). [Link]* B5G6G pushes barter trade stablecoin at Africa–Singapore Forum. [Link]* Bitwise files for LINK ETF [Link]* B Strategy plans $1b BNB DAT [Link]* Metaplanet buys $11.7m BTC, joins FTSE Japan [Link]That’s all for now, folks.Take care– Marc & Team🚀 Work with us: We create pioneering thought leadership that helps digital asset and technology companies lead the conversation, earn trust and win business.* Check out our AI newsletter, AI Operator, here.* Check out our Crypto Treasury Alpha newsletter here.Got suggestions? Reply to this email. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.51insights.xyz/subscribe

“The age of accounts is ending. The age of wallets is beginning.”— Tony McLaughlin, CEO of Ubyx, ex-CitiFor the release of our new stablecoin report “Digital Dollar, Real Yield,” we sat down with two of the sharpest operators in stablecoin infrastructure:* David Sutter, CEO of OpenTrade, powering yield infrastructure for fintechs using stablecoins* Tony McLaughlin, CEO of Ubyx and former Citi exec, building the first global clearinghouse for stablecoinsBoth are quietly shaping what the next decade of global finance will look like, faster, cheaper, programmable. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.51insights.xyz/subscribe

“Enterprises don’t want ten integrations to enter the blockchain space. They want one partner that does it all: on-ramps, off-ramps, custody, cards, compliance.”We sat down with Max von Wallenberg, the co-founder and CEO of Iron to discuss how stablecoins are becoming the new rails for global finance.Iron is a stablecoin payments infrastructure company recently acquired by MoonPay. It provides stablecoin APIs that enable wallets, fintechs, and enterprises to move money seamlessly across fiat and crypto rails—covering on-ramps, off-ramps, global payouts, and banking-like functionality for wallets.We’ll talk about:* Regulatory catalyst* Enterprise FOMO* Infrastructure moats* Why every fintech will go stablecoin-native… and much more This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.51insights.xyz/subscribe

Hi, it’s Marc. ✌️“Blockchain is just infrastructure. The real question isn’t ‘Why do you need blockchain?’ but rather ‘Can it make your solution better, faster, and more scalable?.”The restaurant industry is a trillion-dollar business, yet most restaurants operate on razor-thin margins of 4% or less. Traditional platforms like OpenTable and Toast have created walled gardens that limit restaurants' control over customer relationships, payments, and loyalty programs.We sat down with Ben Leventhal, the founder and CEO of Blackbird Labs to discuss the future of first-party data ownership with blockchain.Blackbird, a blockchain-powered platform aims to revolutionize payments and loyalty by giving restaurants direct ownership over their transactions and customer data. It is proving that Web3 isn’t about hype—it’s about solving real-world business problems.Here’s what we’ve covered:* Why Blackbird was built: Restaurants rely on platforms like OpenTable, Toast, and POS systems, but these platforms own the customer data—not the restaurants. The biggest players in restaurant tech (OpenTable, Toast) control customer data. Blackbird enables restaurants to own their payments, loyalty programs, and consumer insights.* Saving millions using blockchain: Payment processing fees eat up 2-3% of revenue—a significant loss for low-margin businesses. Restaurants can reduce these costs significantly by leveraging blockchain.* Restaurants must own their consumer data: The restaurant industry operates on 4% margins—losing even 1-2% to third parties is a major issue. Owning first-party data means you can increase retention without paying intermediaries.* How Blackbird works: Instead of relying on third-party reservation and payment systems, Blackbird gives restaurants full control over transactions and customer data. It enables customers to check in, dine, and leave without manually paying—payment happens in the background. Transactions happen using Fly tokens, stored in an auto-generated wallet for every user, reducing friction.And much more.On the Consumer Experience with Blackbird,“Payments are loyalty. You can’t separate the two. Our goal is to make them seamless for both consumers and restaurants.”Key Take-Aways for Brand Leaders* Blockchain for payments & loyalty can work: Brands should explore tokenized loyalty programs that are interoperable across multiple locations and do not lock consumers into walled gardens.* Pro Tip: Ensure that customer data and transactions are stored in a way that the brand—not third parties—can leverage for direct relationships.* Blackbird’s FlyNet (L3 blockchain on Base) enables real-time transactions and ownership of consumer interactions. It combines payments, loyalty, and consumer data into one seamless platform.* Own your first-party data: Restaurants need flexible, modular tech stacks that empower them to own customer relationships, not rely on third-party platforms that take a cut.* Pro Tip: If your brand is in hospitality or retail, blockchain can help you to own first-party data and reduce reliance on intermediaries.* Removing friction in the customer experience pays off: Brands should look at how friction in payments, loyalty, or onboarding affects conversions and invest in streamlining the experience.* Pro Tip: Benchmark your checkout or payment experience against the best in digital commerce (Amazon, Apple Pay, Uber)—if it’s slower, fix it.* Blackbird allows seamless check-ins and auto-pay, eliminating the “waiting for the check” problem. * Result: Higher transaction volume, lower payment processing costs, and more engaged customers.* Blockchain is a tool, not the product: Do not start with technology—start with the problem and assess if blockchain (or AI, etc.) is the best solution.* Pro Tip: If your Web3 initiative doesn’t offer clear benefits over Web2 alternatives (better UX, lower costs, more control), reconsider the implementation.* Numbers prove product-market fit: For emerging tech solutions in traditional industries, real adoption numbers matter—always ask for proof of traction.* Pro Tip: When evaluating new tech partnerships, demand KPIs like transaction volume, retention rates, and real-world adoption figures.* Blackbird is already processing over $500K+ in transaction volume in 2025. Over 1,000 restaurants onboarded across New York, San Francisco, and Charleston.Blockchain should be invisible—it’s a tool, not the product.Tune in to dive deeper into Blackbird’s infrastructure and the future of blockchain in the restaurant industry. That’s all for now.Marc & TeamPS: We help companies like Avalanche, Near, or MoonPay with industry-leading thought leadership campaigns. Interested? Start dominating your vertical. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.51insights.xyz/subscribe

Hi, it’s Marc. ✌️"The biggest AI impact isn't in chatbots—it’s in backend efficiencies like demand forecasting, inventory management, and pricing optimization."We sat down with Mario Lang, Executive Director & Global Technology Lead at The Estée Lauder Companies Inc., to discuss the key shifts in technology to define the next decade of luxury.The Estée Lauder Companies (ELC) have explored emerging technologies, such as blockchain-based Digital Product Passports (DPPs) for authentication, consumer engagement, and resale tracking. They are also developing AI-driven customer service agents to enhance white-glove luxury experiences. Mario said: “Many brands fail in digital transformation because they silo innovation teams from core business units—tech must be embedded, not an afterthought.”In 2024, ELC and Microsoft expanded their partnership with an AI Innovation Lab to power prestige beauty with generative AI by accelerating consumer engagement, speed to market, and localized relevance across ELC’s 20+ brands. The company also built an AI tool to merge trend data with products to spot trends, optimize marketing, and boost profitability while improving consumer targeting and reducing marketing inefficiencies.AI, blockchain, and immersive commerce are no longer experiments—they are shaping how brands engage, optimize, and sustain long-term value.Here’s what we’ve covered:* Digital Product Passports (DPPs) – The future of CRM* AI in Luxury – Backend first, frontend next* NFTs – From collectibles to utility* AI-powered trend spotting & pricing optimization* Web3 loyalty programs* The shift to interoperable luxuryAnd much more.The future of luxury isn’t brand silos—cross-brand collaboration will redefine consumer engagement. Brands need to stop hoarding consumer data and embrace shared loyalty ecosystems.Key Take-Aways for Brand Leaders* DPPs will be the CRM: DPPs lower the barrier to consumer-brand interaction, replacing the outdated PII (Personal Identifiable Information) model. They authenticate luxury products, support resale, and build long-term consumer relationships.* Action: Start integrating DPPs in your supply chain today across sourcing, retail, and resale. The EU will require them soon for sustainability compliance.* No ID management platform currently exists that fully bridges procurement, retail, and consumer engagement—this is an untapped opportunity.* AI should first optimize operations, then elevate consumer experience: AI agents can enable hyper-personalized luxury service at scale, reducing human resource needs. The biggest opportunity isn’t in chatbots—it’s in backend efficiencies: demand forecasting, dynamic pricing, and supply chain optimization.* Action: Deploy AI to optimize inventory, promo pricing, and customer segmentation before launching consumer-facing AI experiences.* NFTs are not dead—they need utility: The NFT hype cycle is over, but functional NFTs tied to loyalty, gated access, or resale verification will thrive. Sports teams and entertainment brands are leading the way in NFT utility—luxury is behind.* Pro tip: Instead of a collectible, think of NFTs as a membership key—reward consumers with exclusive product drops, events, or brand collaborations.* Metaverse is evolving through AR & Wearables: Full-scale VR adoption is waiting on better hardware, but AR is already driving results in retail activations. Consumers expect seamless blending of digital and physical luxury experiences.* Action: Test AR activations in high-footfall retail spaces and track conversion from AR-driven engagement to purchase.* The future of luxury loyalty is interoperable: Consumers want brand-agnostic loyalty programs where benefits travel across brand ecosystems. The biggest brands are already tracking consumer behavior beyond direct sales—department store data is the next battleground.* Action: Consider partnering with other brands or platforms for shared loyalty programs. A perfect example: Cavs Rewards* The biggest opportunity isn’t just better loyalty—it’s disrupting wholesale retail data access, allowing luxury brands to reclaim customer insights lost in department stores.* Future-proofing- How to vet emerging technologies: Leaders need to assess tech through clear business outcomes, not just “innovation for innovation’s sake.” Brands that fail to connect technology to engagement, conversion, or efficiency will struggle with adoption.* Action: Categorize all new tech into:* Now – Solves an immediate business need (e.g., AI for pricing optimization)* Soon – Competitive advantage in 1-3 years (e.g., DPPs, loyalty evolution)* On the Horizon – Moonshot innovation bets (e.g., AR-based virtual commerce)* Pro tip: Never lead with “innovation” when pitching tech internally—frame solutions in terms of revenue, efficiency, and conversion.The next decade of luxury isn’t about digital gimmicks—it’s about using technology to lower friction while preserving exclusivity.Brands that integrate AI, blockchain, and immersive experiences into existing consumer journeys—instead of treating them as standalone experiments—will win.Dive deeper and listen to the full conversation.That’s all for now.Thanks,Marc & Team51 can help your Web3 & AI scale-ups to become the go-to name for enterprises & brands. We’ve built the highest-quality growth engine in Web3:* 70K+ B2B business leaders & direct corporate access to get in front of decision-makers.* Institutional grade research & BD execution to deliver high-intent corporate prospects & higher conversion rates* Sales enablement & GTM strategy to close enterprise deals faster.Clients include: Avalanche, MoonPay, Near Foundation, and others.Let’s talk. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.51insights.xyz/subscribe

Hi, it’s Marc. ✌️“There is no correlation between budget and success. The most successful brands are the ones that understand the community they’re entering and add value rather than just push ads. Spending millions doesn’t guarantee engagement—listening and iterating does.”We sat down with Charles Hambro, Co-founder and CEO at GEEIQ, to break down how brands can use Roblox, Fortnite, and other virtual worlds to drive engagement and stay ahead.GEEIQ is an analytics platform that helps brands track and optimize activations in virtual spaces. Since 2018, it has analyzed hundreds of brand campaigns, proving that gaming isn’t just for experiments—it’s a core marketing channel.Why it matters: Traditional social media is losing ground. Younger audiences are spending more time inside games than scrolling feeds. For brands, this isn’t just an opportunity—it’s the next battleground for attention.On why brands are moving into virtual worlds, Charles said:“Virtual worlds are not just games anymore—they’re social hubs. People aren’t just playing, they’re hanging out. That’s where brands need to be.”By the data: The last 5 years have seen a shift from social media to user-generated content (UGC) platforms like Roblox, Fortnite, and Zepeto.* In Q4 alone, 110 brands launched activations in Roblox, more than Fortnite (75) and Sandbox (31) combined.* Roblox has seen 847 brand activations since 2018, nearly double Fortnite (477).Here’s what we’ve covered:* Why brands are shifting from social media to virtual worlds—and why Roblox dominates brand activations.* How virtual commerce is evolving—and what Walmart, Gucci, and Hugo Boss are testing.* The biggest mistakes brands make in gaming activations—and how to avoid them.* Why traditional social media and gaming platforms will merge—and how brands should prepare.And much more.Virtual commerce is still in the early stages. Brands should experiment with digital-to-physical strategies, but don’t expect instant ROI—yet. The real winners will be the brands that experiment early, listen to the data, and focus on engagement over impressions.The Ultimate AI x Crypto Intelligence PlatformCompare, analyze, and track AI startups & vendors in real-time — powered by research and data, not hype. Join the waitlist for exclusive early access 👉Key Take-Aways for Brand Leaders* Roblox is not the only game in town: Roblox leads in brand activations, but it’s not the only platform that matters. Fortnite, Zepeto, and others offer different opportunities based on budget, audience, and engagement style. The right choice depends on your strategy—not hype. Breaking it down:* Fortnite → High-quality brand activations, but bigger budgets required.* Zepeto → Strong Gen Z, female audience—ideal for fashion & lifestyle brands.* Decentraland & Sandbox → Web3 & NFT focus, but smaller user bases.* PRO TIP: If reach and engagement are the goal, Roblox is still the best bet. But don’t assume success—test, analyze, and refine before scaling.* From social media to virtual worlds: Brands no longer need approval from platforms like Roblox or Fortnite to launch activations. Just like users can create and publish content, brands can build their own experiences, virtual stores, or branded items without needing direct partnerships with the platform. Virtual worlds function like social platforms where brands can build their own spaces (similar to how they used to create Instagram profiles).* PRO TIP: Don’t treat virtual worlds like traditional gaming—approach them like social media platforms where users expect engagement, not ads.* Brand success isn’t about big budgets: Spending more doesn’t guarantee success—brands that listen to the community and add value perform better. Engagement, not impressions, drives ROI—time spent with a brand in virtual worlds outperforms traditional social media.* PRO TIP: Before launching, use data to study user behavior and adjust your activation accordingly.* E-Commerce in virtual worlds is just beginning: Walmart’s test in Roblox (powered by GEEIQ’s data) showed potential but had limits—only three real-world items were available for purchase. Meanwhile, Roblox partnered with Shopify to let creators sell physical goods directly in-game using Shopify’s checkout, with a full launch set for 2025. Gen Z and Gen Alpha already shop on social platforms and buy virtual items on platforms like Roblox. As virtual worlds evolve, in-game purchases could outpace traditional e-commerce.* PRO TIP: Brands should experiment with digital-to-physical commerce (e.g., selling digital skins that unlock real-world products) to prepare for this shift.* Virtual worlds will become more social: Meta’s Horizon Worlds could be the sleeping giant, with Meta’s 3B+ monthly users and deep platform integration. Expect mergers and acquisitions between virtual platforms and traditional social media. More social features (news feeds, TikTok-like experiences) will be integrated into virtual worlds.* PRO TIP: If you’re planning for long-term brand positioning, start testing activations in virtual spaces now—before competition floods in.* Blockchain and Web3 games aren’t dead: Blockchain and Web3 gaming aren’t a lost cause—they just need a fresh approach. Platforms like Decentraland and Sandbox didn’t resonate because NFTs weren’t the real draw. Users care more about immersive social and gaming experiences than the underlying tech. For blockchain to truly make an impact in gaming, it’s about traditional giants like Roblox or Fortnite seamlessly integrating on-chain assets.* PRO TIP: Brands should focus less on chasing the NFT hype and more on gamifying experiences that enhance engagement. The future of Web3 in gaming lies in creating multiple touchpoints, building lasting loyalty, and delivering real utility—like cross-platform asset ownership.Virtual worlds aren’t just an extension of gaming—they’re the future of brand engagement.Tune in to dive deeper into Charles’ brand strategy.That’s all for now.Thanks,Marc & Team📊 Data Drop: Top Brands in Gaming / Immersive CommerceWe have curated a dataset of 150+ of immersive commerce / gaming activations of major consumer brands. Subscribe to PRO to get free access to all the data (at the bottom of the article) 👇 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.51insights.xyz/subscribe

Hi, it’s Marc. ✌️We sat down with Michael Chock, Chief Solutions Officer at SmartMedia Technologies, John Timoney, Co-founder at Uptop and Mark Epps, Director of Communication and Web3 at ATP Tour to break down how sports clubs are leaving millions on the table—and how new tech is turning passive fans into paying customers.Sports teams and brands monetize less than 5% of their fan base despite having millions of followers. This brings the need for monetising fan engagement, not just measuring.On the future of Web3 and fan engagement, Mark said:“When we launched our ‘Momentum’ campaign, we grew our fan database by 25% in just eight days. And we did it using NFTs—without even calling them NFTs."On the need for fan identity and first-party data, John said:“The future of fandom and marketing is direct-to-wallet. Your wallet is your identity, your transaction history, and your engagement proof—all in one."On loyalty, Michael said: “Sports teams don’t have a loyalty challenge—they have an engagement challenge. Having millions of Instagram followers means nothing if brands can’t turn them into real value.”— Michael Chock, Smart Media TechnologiesWant the full breakdown? We just dropped our flagship report on The Future of Fan Engagement.Key Take-Aways for Brand Leaders* Sports and brands have massive digital audiences but monetize only 1-5% of them. Even a 1% improvement in monetization can generate significant revenue. Brands should shift from passive social media followings to opt-in, direct engagement models that provide fan incentives.* PRO TIP: Develop digital experiences where fans willingly share data in exchange for unique perks (e.g., exclusive early access, and customized rewards).* The future isn’t about "fan loyalty" but fan identity tracking—understanding behaviours, preferences, and engagement across platforms. Build persistent digital identities (wallet-based or tokenized) where a fan’s engagement history follows them across platforms.* PRO TIP: Track engagement patterns (e.g., app usage, in-stadium check-ins, digital purchases) to personalize future offers.* The Cleveland Cavaliers' fan wallet system increased partner grocery store sales by double-digit percentages by shifting fan spending habits. Leverage data-driven loyalty ecosystems that reward fans not just for spending with the team but with partner brands.* PRO TIP: Instead of generic discounts offer rewards tied to emotional moments—such as premium game experiences, access to exclusive gear, or VIP content.* Platforms like Meta owns the audience, not the brand. Engagement on Instagram or TikTok means nothing if brands don’t capture direct data. Brands need to shift efforts from social media vanity metrics to first-party data collection through direct-to-fan channels.* PRO TIP: Use QR codes, in-stadium activations, or gamified content that drives fans to owned platforms (e.g., team apps, digital wallets).* The winning fan engagement model is open-loop, not closed-loop. This means rewards, identity, and experiences should work across multiple ecosystems. Move toward an interoperable ecosystem where a fan’s engagement in one place unlocks perks elsewhere.* PRO TIP: Collaborate with sponsors and leagues to create a unified fan wallet where brands share, rather than silo, consumer engagement data.* Marketers are demanding more ROI from sponsorships. Sponsors want more than just logo exposure; they want data-driven attribution. Build sponsorship assets that measure impact beyond impressions—such as engagement-based rewards or real-time participation analytics.* PRO TIP: Use direct-to-wallet marketing instead of email spam—personalized offers will drive conversion rates exponentially higher.Web3 is a “HOW”, not a “Why.”The adoption curve is already underway—120M+ active blockchain wallets exist today, and digital-first consumers are shifting to seamless, owned experiences.Tune in to dive deeper into Web3 fandom strategy.That’s all for now.Marc & Team🚀 Work With 51: Scale Your Web3 x AI Corporate AdoptionOur industry OGs, vast network, research team & 70k+ B2B audience help you:* Co-publish enterprise-grade reports with us, driving traffic and boosting B2B outbound conversion rates.* Execute a multi-channel growth campaign that delivers better results than anything else in Web3's consumer space. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.51insights.xyz/subscribe

Hi, it’s Marc. ✌️“The hype around Web3 gaming really outpaced the product delivery. Many teams prioritized token launches over actually building fun games. Games are actually B2C products. It has to be fun. It’s not necessarily about tokens and being able to earn in games.”We sat down with Anton Umnov, Founder and CEO of Helika, to discuss the future of Web3 gaming, AI, and the rise of Telegram as a gaming powerhouse.With over 15 years of experience in data analytics across fintech and crypto, Anton built Helika, a leading Web3 gaming analytics platform. On the role of social gaming & mini-apps, Anton said:“The biggest Web3 games will emerge from mini-app ecosystems like Telegram, TikTok, and Line—not traditional app stores.”Here’s what we’ve covered:* Evolution of Web3 gaming: In the last cycle, many Web3 games rushed to launch tokens instead of building actual gameplay. Now, the focus has shifted to creating engaging, player-first experiences that can compete with traditional games. The industry is learning that fun must come before financial incentives.* Telegram is the new gaming powerhouse: With 1B+ users, Telegram’s mini-apps are becoming the fastest, lowest-cost way to scale Web3 games. These games benefit from frictionless onboarding, viral sharing mechanics, and built-in social engagement, making Telegram a low-cost, high-growth alternative to traditional app stores.* AI in game development: AI is shortening development cycles from 3-5 years to just 12-18 months by automating in-game economy balancing, NPC behaviors, and real-time A/B testing. AI-powered agents will adjust difficulty, create personalized experiences, and enhance monetization strategies dynamically.And much more.The future of gaming is a fusion of AI, Web3, and social-driven distribution models. Games won’t just be played—they’ll be owned, evolved, and monetized in real-time.🚨 Mark your calendars: On February 6th 12:00PM EST we’ll host a panel on: * How The Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA) increased member spend with sponsors by 40%, generated 1M+ loyalty transactions in just two months with millions in additional revenue. * How Karate Kombat built a global sports league with millions of fans bey turning their marketing budget into direct incentives for fans, pioneering a model that every sports club (and brand!) can adopt. With top-tier speakers: * Robert Bryan (Founder Karate Kombat)* Michael Chock (Chief Strategy Officer, Smart Media Technologies),* Mark Epps (Director Comms & Web3, ATP Tour)* John Timoney-Gomez(Co-Founder Uptop)Attendees we’ll receive early-bird access to our biggest report yet on fan engagement across sport & entertainment with Web3 tech.🚨 Secure your spot & report below, spots are limited! 👇Key Take-Aways for Brand Leaders* Web3 gaming is maturing: Web3 gaming over-promised and under-delivered in the last bull cycle. Brands and investors should bet on game studios prioritizing engagement over speculation—the next 12-24 months will be crucial.* PRO TIP: Track Telegram mini-app adoption as an early indicator of Web3 gaming’s next breakout successes.* Adopt AI and optimise: Traditional AAA games take 3-5 years to build. AI and blockchain infrastructure are cutting this down to 12-18 months by automating game balancing, NPC behavior, and A/B testing. * PRO TIP: Studios should integrate AI-driven procedural generation and real-time player analytics to accelerate development and optimize monetization.* Telegram as the App Store of Web3 games: Telegram has 1B+ users, and Web3 gaming is taking off through its mini-app ecosystem. First-gen Telegram games (Notcoin, Katiz) proved the model—now, mid-core+ games are launching. Web3 game developers and brands should prioritize Telegram mini-apps—they offer the fastest user onboarding and lowest marketing costs.* PRO TIP: Use Telegram-native viral mechanics (stickers, social sharing, tokenized rewards) to bootstrap adoption at near-zero cost.* Web3 Gaming = Fintech in disguise: Web3 games are embedding staking, lending, and DeFi mechanics inside gameplay. This creates sticky user engagement and makes gaming wallets a financial hub beyond just in-game purchases.* PRO TIP: Brands should treat Web3 gaming as an entry point into next-gen fintech—gaming wallets could become the Venmo of Gen Z.* Move beyond US: Korea has higher crypto adoption than the U.S., and major studios there are already integrating blockchain. MENA (Middle East & North Africa) governments are creating regulatory sandboxes to attract Web3 game developers. Studios should localize incentives for Asian & MENA audiences—financialization matters more to these markets than to Western gamers.* Community co-creation: Unlike traditional gaming, where AAA studios build in stealth, Web3 games require constant player feedback and iteration. Successful Web3 games treat early adopters as stakeholders, not just customers.* PRO TIP: Game studios should launch early betas, use Discord/Telegram for real-time community feedback, and adapt mechanics in response to user behavior.The future is AI + Web3 + Social Virality → where games evolve in real time, monetization is adaptive, and global adoption scales through messaging apps, not app stores.Tune in to dive deeper into Anton’s Web3 gaming strategy.That’s all for now.Marc & Team This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.51insights.xyz/subscribe

Hi, it’s Marc. ✌️"Blockchain is not a magic wand you plug in. It requires a mindset change—it’s a paradigm that demands adaptation to decentralisation for it to work effectively."We sat down with Pedro Lopez-Belmonte Eraso, Web3 & tech innovation expert, to discuss use-cases of Web3 technology in the luxury sector. With 11+ years of experience in the luxury industry including building Richemont Group’s blockchain tech strategy for the past 6 years, Pedro explained why blockchain is not just a technology but a paradigm shift.Richemont is a Switzerland-based luxury goods holding company with operations into three main divisions: jewelry maisons, watches, and fashion and accessories. In 2021, its maison Cartier partnered with LVMH, and Prada to launch Aura Blockchain Consortium for luxury brands. The platform uses blockchain to ensure transparency, traceability, and proof of authenticity for consumers.On Digital Product Passports, Pedro said:"Digital passports are one of the most relevant blockchain use cases. They will enable interactions with third-party services, such as reselling, recycling, and insurance, at minimal cost."Here’s what we’ve covered:* DPPs: Luxury watches with digital passports can increase resale value by up to 30% while strengthening customer loyalty.* Embrace Ecosystems: Instead of building proprietary blockchain solutions, plug into established ecosystems like Ethereum or Polygon to reduce costs and unlock scalability.* Educate Your Team: Schedule quarterly workshops to ensure leadership understands blockchain’s potential beyond NFTs.And much more.The luxury sector is still at the beginning of its blockchain journey. Blockchain isn’t just about technology—it’s about a mindset shift. To succeed, brands must adapt to decentralization and adopt standards that allow interoperability. While some companies chase trends, the most successful brands focus on utility, customer empowerment, and long-term value creation.Here’s how you can stay ahead.Key Take-Aways for Brand Leaders* Shift to Utility: The future of blockchain lies in digital passports, loyalty programs, and pre-owned marketplaces—not collectibles. By 2025, shift 50% of your blockchain projects from collectibles to utility-based applications.* PRO TIP: Measure success with metrics like retention rate and engagement frequency, not speculative sales.* Embrace Ecosystems Over Proprietary Systems: Blockchain ecosystems (e.g., Polygon, Ethereum) offer scalability and cost-efficiency by integrating third-party services like recycling and resale. Partner with 3-5 ecosystem players within 12 months to test interoperable use cases.* PRO TIP: Use plug-and-play platforms to accelerate implementation while maintaining control.* Digital Product Passports: Digital passports enhance lifecycle tracking, resale value, and personalization. Done right, they can boost resale value by up to 30%.* PRO TIP: Pair passports with an interactive app for customers to track repairs, upgrades, or ownership history.* Build a Scalable Program: Blockchain records every product interaction, enabling deeper customer relationships. Create an NFT-based loyalty program where customers earn rewards for product usage or participation in events.* PRO TIP: Automate rewards through smart contracts, cutting program management costs by 20-30%.* Avoid NFT Mistakes: Porsche’s NFT project failed due to poor value delivery, while IWC’s Diamond Hand Club succeeded by airdropping free tokens and building community value. Avoid upfront charges for NFTs. Start with free airdrops and focus on exclusive benefits like VIP events.* PRO TIP: Use token-gated experiences to engage loyal customers.* Data Potential with Blockchain: Blockchain offers high-quality, privacy-focused data collection. Brands can offer 10-20% discounts or perks to incentivize customers to share behavioural data securely.* PRO TIP: Build a blockchain-based data dashboard to monitor customer trends while ensuring compliance.Blockchain isn’t just technology. If applied correctly, it can redefine customer relationships. Leaders who embrace ecosystems, focus on utility, and adapt their mindset will unlock opportunities others can’t see.As Pedro Lopez-Bajmonte said:“Blockchain is not a tool; it’s a paradigm shift. Brands need to give up some control to gain transparency, trust, and scalability.”Tune in to dive deeper into Pedro’s Web3 strategy.That’s all for now.Thanks,Marc & Team▶️Top Podcasts:Find our other podcasts here:* Spotify* Apple Podcasts* Youtube⚡️ Work With Us & Reach 50k+ Corporate LeadersOur industry OGs, vast network, research team & 50k+ B2B audience help you:* Co-publish enterprise-grade reports with us, driving traffic and boosting B2B outbound conversion rates.* Execute a multi-channel growth campaign that delivers better results than anything else in Web3's consumer space. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.51insights.xyz/subscribe

Hi, it’s Marc. ✌️"We learned the hard way: keep things simple. Overcomplicating propositions alienates fans. When we stripped it back this year, we smashed our targets."We sat down with Mark Epps, Director of Communications and Web3 at ATP Tour, who shared insights into the organization’s Web3 journey, the successes of its recent Momentum Drop activation, and its vision for the future of fan engagement.In November 2024, the ATP Tour launched Momentum, offering fans 15 free, match-specific digital collectibles at the ATP Finals. These data-driven NFTs use match metrics to visualize player momentum, blending storytelling with fan engagement—no crypto jargon, just exclusive digital experiences.Tennis has 1B fans, yet fewer than 1% attend events each year. The rest are intermediated by broadcasters or social media platforms. The result?* Limited fan data: ATP struggles to understand fan preferences and behaviors.* Missed sponsor opportunities: Without direct relationships, sponsors lack effective ways to connect with fans.Momentum Drop—the ATP’s latest Web3 activation—addresses these challenges.In November 2024, the ATP Tour launched Momentum at the ATP Finals in Turin. The activation offered fans 15 match-specific digital collectibles, visualizing player momentum using match data.* No crypto jargon: The experience was Web3-powered but it felt familiar and simple to use.* Time-sensitive claims: Fans had just 24 hours to collect each item, creating urgency and retention.Results That Speak Volumes: Momentum Drop shattered expectations.* 75K participants: Far exceeding expectations for sign-ups.* 10 collectibles claimed per fan (on average): Fans returned five times during the event, demonstrating high retention.* 25K fans claimed all 15 items: A testament to the stickiness of the experience.* 87% opt-in rate for marketing: Over 65K fans opted into ATP communications—proof of deep engagement."The numbers blew our minds," said Epps. "It was proof that tennis has a passionate cohort of fans who want their engagement recognized and rewarded."Here’s what we’ve covered:* Scarcity drives action: Fans respond to time-limited, high-value activations.* Simplicity scales: Overcomplication derails adoption—strip experiences down to the essentials.* Build for sponsors: Sponsors demand measurable ROI. Web3 creates new opportunities for granular insights and high-value engagements.* Centralize the fan journey: Unify touchpoints (e.g., ticketing, merch, social) to enhance personalization and lifetime value.* Proof matters: Use early wins to validate hypotheses and secure internal buy-in for long-term projects.And much more.AI Mastery: Your Business Can't WaitTired of AI investments that don't deliver? Stop wasting time - and start generating immediate ROI with AI. "The AI Process Playbook for Business" shows you how to transform your operations with battle-tested frameworks and practical generative AI workflows. From first prompt to full implementation, fast-track your AI advantage today.On why Web3 isn't overhyped, Mark said:"It's tough to say it’s overhyped when we haven’t seen that many sticky and sustainable use cases yet. For us, Web3 is a pragmatic tool to solve a clear business problem—not about dropping random NFT collections to extract value from audiences."Key Take-Aways for Brand Leaders* Unlock billions of fans globally: Traditional engagement relies on intermediaries (e.g., social media, broadcasters), limiting direct relationships and monetization. Build direct-to-fan platforms that collect meaningful fan data while reducing dependency on third-party platforms.* PRO TIP: Start with a Fan ID system—a decentralized digital identity that follows fans across interactions (e.g., ticketing, merch, digital activations).* Experimentation yields growth: Success requires iteration. Early wins build credibility, while “failures” provide data to refine future activations. Adopt a test-and-learn mindset—validate concepts through small pilots, then scale once KPIs align.* PRO TIP: Simplicity is non-negotiable. Keep experiences frictionless, especially when introducing new tech.* Retention wins through gamification: Fans engage more deeply when there’s scarcity and a clear incentive to return. Use scarcity and completion-based rewards to drive repeat engagement.* PRO TIP: Design collectible systems that reward consistency—think streak bonuses or milestone achievements.* Data-driven fan engagement: Personalized rewards and engagement strategies increase loyalty and lifetime value. Leverage blockchain to build fan profiles based on on-chain activity. Reward loyalty with tokenized benefits or exclusive access.* PRO TIP: Use token-gated activations (e.g., premium merch drops, sponsor perks) to deepen connections with superfans.* Scaling through iteration: A single, centralized engagement platform builds consistency across events while creating scalable systems. Identify fragmented fan ecosystems within your brand and integrate them under a single platform.* PRO TIP: Partner with scalable blockchain solutions that offer speed, cost-efficiency, and high-volume transaction support.ATP’s approach shows how Web3 is more than a tech trend—it’s a strategic enabler for deeper fan connections, actionable data, and scalable engagement models.What’s NextATP plans to scale Momentum Drop across its year-long tour calendar, creating a Fan ID system that unifies engagement across platforms—from tickets to merchandise.The takeaway? Web3 isn’t just hype. For ATP, it’s solving business challenges while building deeper connections with fans and sponsors alike.Tune in to dive deeper into ATP’s Web3 strategy.That’s all for now.Thanks,Marc & Team▶️Top Podcasts:Find our other podcasts here:* Spotify* Apple Podcasts* Youtube⚡️ Work With Us & Reach 50k+ Corporate LeadersOur industry OGs, vast network, research team & 50k+ B2B audience help you:* Co-publish enterprise-grade reports with us, driving traffic and boosting B2B outbound conversion rates.* Execute a multi-channel growth campaign that delivers better results than anything else in Web3's consumer space. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.51insights.xyz/subscribe

Hi, it’s Marc. ✌️“NFTs are like bricks—just because the hype settles doesn’t mean they won’t build the next great structures.”We sat down with Tareq Nazlawy, Co-founder and CEO at Trace, to explore how sports teams, brands, and leagues can turn cultural capital into measurable value. With a career spanning Adidas, Science Magic Studios, and now Trace, Tarek brings a unique perspective to the intersection of culture, commerce, and technology. Trace turns unknown sports fans into an addressable audience through time-limited digital memorabilia, creating deeper engagement. It enables IPs to gain first-party data, sponsors get targeted exposure, and fans are rewarded with recognition and exclusive experiences.Recently, Trace teamed up with the ATP Tour to launch Momentum, offering fans 15 free, match-specific digital collectibles at the ATP Finals. These data-driven NFTs use match metrics to visualize player momentum, blending storytelling with fan engagement—no crypto jargon, just exclusive digital experiences.Spoiler: Tarek believes only 0.5–1.5% of fans have a direct connection to their favorite teams. The rest? That’s the untapped potential Trace is working to capture.Here’s what we’ve covered:* Playable commerce: Gamified fan credentials like Trace’s “digital passports” boost loyalty, turn rituals into tangible rewards, and provide meaningful data for brands and sponsors.* The love-money balance: Focus on amplifying what fans already love. Tarek explains why commercializing every interaction risks corrupting authentic fan relationships.* Real metrics for sponsorships: With sponsors investing $100B annually in sports, providing measurable ROI through fan-level data is no longer optional.And much more. Ready to move from AI spectator to leader? "The AI Process Playbook for Business" delivers battle-tested frameworks to transform your operations with generative AI. Written for busy executives, this practical guide fast-tracks your journey from basic prompts to high ROI sophisticated AI workflows. Master AI before your competitors do.On fan engagement, Tareq said:“Focus on feeding obsessions, not creating new ones. Fans already love something—your job is to amplify it.”Key Take-Aways* Build Direct Fan Connections: 99% of fans remain anonymous to teams and sponsors. Brands can grow direct engagement to 5–15% by using tools like digital memorabilia. A “fan passport” model recognizes and rewards loyalty through collectible markers of engagement, creating status tiers.* PRO TIP: Offer fans exclusive “fan passports” or collectibles to capture email opt-ins and boost engagement.* Enable Scarcity-Driven Commerce: Limited-edition digital and physical memorabilia can trigger scarcity-driven buying behavior, mirroring hype models in sneaker culture.* PRO TIP: Pair digital assets with exclusive physical merchandise to bridge the digital and physical experience seamlessly.* Lead with Emotional Value: Emotional resonance, not financialization, sustains fandom. Fans cherish moments and recognition more than monetary rewards.* PRO TIP: Design digital assets to evoke nostalgia and shared experience rather than focusing solely on resale value.*  Monetize Passion: Fans' emotional investment leads to higher spending on tickets, merchandise, and subscriptions when nurtured properly.* PRO TIP: Develop integrated ecosystems where fans can spend directly within your platform, eliminating third-party intermediaries (e.g., broadcasters or social media platforms).* Gamify the Fan Experience: Fans need consistent incentives to stay engaged. Time-limited rewards, like Trace’s “event tokens,” drive participation and excitement.* PRO TIP: Launch pre-event gamified campaigns to bring fans back to your platform multiple times a week.Tune in to the podcast to learn more about monetization of fandom without losing authenticity.That’s all for now.Thanks,Marc & Team▶️Top Podcasts:Find our other podcasts here:* Spotify* Apple Podcasts* Youtube⚡️ Work With Us & Reach 50k+ Corporate LeadersOur industry OGs, vast network, research team & 50k+ B2B audience help you:* Co-publish enterprise-grade reports with us, driving traffic and boosting B2B outbound conversion rates.* Execute a multi-channel growth campaign that delivers better results than anything else in Web3's consumer space. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.51insights.xyz/subscribe

Hi, it’s Marc. ✌️“Gaming is the new social media. Platforms like Roblox and Fortnite let brands create experiences where people spend not seconds, but minutes—sometimes even hours—engaged with your content.” We sat down with Luca Zicconi, the Web3, Metaverse, XR, and Gaming Lead at Škoda Auto, to discuss their work in the Škodaverse.As a brand with over 130 years of history, Škoda is embracing the future through Skodaverse, an initiative redefining consumer engagement with Web3 technology. They introduced NFTs to celebrate Škoda's 30 years as the official main sponsor of the IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship in 2022. Here’s what we’ve covered:* Early adoption pays off: Škoda entered Web3 before heavyweights like Adidas and Nike, staking its claim as a leader in the space. Now, they have created a community and connected Škodaverse with gaming and metaverse.* Value over extraction: Rather than selling NFTs, they gave them away for free—building goodwill and long-term relationships with fans.* Cross-functional buy-in: Success in Web3 isn’t a solo effort. They built internal alignment through education, task forces, and leadership support.And much more. Web3, Gaming, and Metaverse are changing how brands engage with consumers. Skoda is one of the leading players in the space touching all the verticals with proven traction. They have taken a step further and introduced AI avatars to make their digital experiences more compelling. On Web3’s potential and outlook, Luca said “The hype may have died down, but the technology hasn’t stopped. Big brands like Visa, Lufthansa, and Meta keep building. Web3 is maturing, and it’s here to stay.”Key Take-Aways* Follow the audience: Platforms like Roblox (2.5M+ visitors for Skoda) and Fortnite are more effective than standalone metaverses. Why? The audiences are built in, reducing acquisition costs and increasing visibility.* PRO TIP: Skip the standalone builds. Partner with platforms that already have millions of active users.* Track engagement, not just conversion: In Skoda’s Nemesis platform, users spend an average of 10–15 minutes, far exceeding engagement on Instagram Reels (measured in seconds). Immersive experiences hold attention and deepen connections.* PRO TIP: Invest in content that keeps users engaged longer. Engagement time is the new ROI.* Use blockchain infrastructure: Skoda’s "Skoda Passport", powered by POAP tokens, rewards fans for both online and offline activities—no crypto wallet required. It’s a scalable way to integrate Web3 into existing loyalty programs* Use blockchain tools like POAP to reward engagement without alienating non-Web3 users. We have covered all the details here. * Educate and align: Web3 success starts inside. Skoda ran webinars, events, and newsletters to onboard stakeholders and align cross-functional teams. This internal education was critical to gaining buy-in.* PRO TIP: Prioritize team education to break down silos and drive new initiatives.* Gamify your long-term strategy: Skoda’s Roblox game, teaching road safety, is a hit with Gen Z and Alpha audiences. While these younger users aren’t immediate customers, they’re building lasting connections with the brand.* PRO TIP: Gamified experiences are more than fun—they’re the foundation for future brand loyalty. Connect all the initiatives building a deeper connection with your customers.Skoda’s strategy highlights the importance of meeting audiences where they are, delivering real value, and focusing on the long game. They took customized approaches across platforms tailored to the platform-specific demographics. Tune in to the podcast to learn more about how they are capitalizing on early-move advantage in the space. That’s all for now.Thanks,Marc & Team▶️Top Podcasts:Find our other podcasts here:* Spotify* Apple Podcasts* Youtube⚡️ Amplify Your GrowthBuilding a Web3 business OR looking to innovate with Web3 tools? FiftyOne Labs  , powered by 51 Insights is your unfair advantage. We combine what and who we know to help you win:* Capturing market & mind share with our 50k+ b2b audience* Shape your narrative & create qualified opportunities* Developing a go-to-market and growth strategy* Increase outbound conversion rates This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.51insights.xyz/subscribe

Marc sat down with Stephen Messer, internet entrepreneur, inventor and investor, and founder of Collective[i], to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming corporates. Collective[i] is a AI pioneer, using AI-driven economic models to provide businesses with predictive insights and real-time decision-making tools. Before founding Collective[i] in 2008, Messer built and sold LinkShare, one of the world's largest affiliate marketing companies. His vision was shaped by watching AI evolve from simple expert systems to today's sophisticated neural networks. Key Insights ⛓️‍💥1. The Three-Layer AI StackMesser presents a compelling framework for understanding AI development:* Commodity Models: Language, image, and audio models trained on public data* Commodity + Complexity Models: Domain-specific models requiring expert knowledge (e.g., protein folding)* Proprietary Data Models: Models trained on private business data to generate unique insights👉 This taxonomy helps executives understand where sustainable competitive advantages might actually exist in AI.2. The LLM Reality CheckMesser argues that language models will likely be commoditized, similar to how browsers became utilities. Current LLM capabilities are "tapping out" due to limited novel training data:* The real value comes from combining LLMs with domain-specific models* Pure LLM advice tends to be generic and unactionable3. Economic Foundation Models as Competitive AdvantageMesser emphasizes that the real game-changer lies in economic foundation models that track and analyze real-time business transactions. Collective[i] is pioneering this space, creating an AI that "observes" global commerce and generates actionable business insights. This includes: * Time-series awareness enables understanding of macro event impacts* Cross-company learning while maintaining privacy* Ability to make predictive decisions about inventory and routing* Integration with autonomous agents for real-time optimizationQ&A Highlights * Marc: What's the difference between training an LLM with proprietary data versus using an economic foundation model? Stephen Messer: Unlike LLMs that lack context and time sensitivity, Collective[i]’s model can factor in real-world events, like interest rate changes or geopolitical shifts, providing business-specific insights.* Marc: How are traditional providers responding to Gen AI? Stephen Messer: Everything we know is gone... When you get into AI, what you start to realize is every way we think about how the world functions changes. Because it's not about just collecting data anymore and processing it.* Marc: How does Collective[i] differ from traditional solutions like Salesforce? Stephen Messer: In the Salesforce model, every customer's data is used to only analyze themselves... We're moving away from simple machine learning, regression models, etc., to deep learning, and we're learning across the entire network of our clients.* Marc: AI Agents? Stephen Messer: AI agents will optimize supply chains, manage inventory, and respond to market changes dynamically—a vision that is feasible today, but often limited by outdated corporate infrastructures.Curated Timestamps[Early AI Experience] ~5:00* Began working in expert systems, eventually building and selling LinkShare.* Transitioned to neural networks with connections to Google Brain.💵 [Data's Value] ~12:00* Middle Eastern countries are now major investors in AI.* Funding is increasingly directed toward companies like Anthropic, OpenAI, and MidJourney.* Investment sources are shifting from venture capital to sovereign wealth funds.🔮 [Future Predictions] ~35:00* AI is expected to become an integral "family member" within the next 5 years.* Anticipated deep integration with healthcare and career management.* Focus on AI's role in preventive problem-solving.🌐 [Blockchain Integration] ~45:00* AI will play a key role in accelerating Web3 adoption.* Legacy systems will need upgrades to support new technologies.* Emphasis on ensuring data authenticity and ownership.Looking Ahead: What Business Leaders Need to Know 🔮The 5-Year View* AI will become an integral part of daily business operations* Companies will need to upgrade their technology infrastructure* Those who don't adapt risk falling behind competitorsKey Action Items* Start Training Now* Invest in AI education for your team* Focus on practical applications in your industry* Build understanding at all levels of your organization* Prepare Your Infrastructure* Review current systems for AI compatibility* Consider how blockchain might integrate with your AI strategy* Focus on data quality and security* Watch Your Competition* Monitor how others in your industry use AI* Be prepared to move quickly when opportunities arise* Don't wait for perfect solutions - start experimenting nowOur Take 🎯The most interesting thing about this interview isn't what Messer says about AI - it's what he reveals about how enterprise value will be created and destroyed in the next decade. While everyone's distracted by ChatGPT, the real revolution is happening in the boring back offices of enterprise software.Stephen Messer: "Imagine if you could actually run an economy by having an AI optimized every single day of how business is being done."That's not just a technology prediction - it's a complete reimagining of how business operates. And it's probably going to happen whether we're ready or not.The Kicker 🥁If Messer’s predictions are accurate, many companies are underestimating:* How quickly enterprise software will be disrupted* How valuable cross-company data assets will become in the future* How completely business operations will be transformedAnd we're probably overestimating:* The value of standalone LLM companies* The durability of current enterprise software* The importance of proprietary data silosThe final thought: The next trillion-dollar company might not be building a better chatbot - it might be creating the economic foundation model that runs the global economy. That’s it for today!Talk soon,– MarcFind our other podcasts here:* Spotify* Apple Podcasts* YoutubePS: Before you go, here’s how our industry OGs, vast network, research team & 50k+ B2B audience help you:* Co-publish enterprise-grade reports with us, driving traffic and boosting B2B outbound conversion rates.* Execute a multi-channel growth campaign that delivers better results than anything else in Web3's consumer space. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.51insights.xyz/subscribe