Learning the friendly way

Currency volatility is a challenge that businesses operating across borders can’t afford to ignore. Exchange rate fluctuations can erode profits, increase costs, and create financial uncertainty, making it difficult for companies to plan effectively.

For businesses that deal with international transactions, traditional solutions like foreign exchange (forex) hedging can be expensive and complicated. Thankfully now, there's a smarter, more efficient alternative—stablecoins.

Stablecoins offer businesses a way to bypass the unpredictability of currency fluctuations by providing a digital asset pegged to stable currencies like the US dollar. The black and white of it is that they make cross-border payments faster, cheaper, and more reliable. 

In this article, we’ll explore why stablecoins are an ideal solution for tackling currency volatility in global financial management.

The challenges of currency volatility in global finance

Global businesses are constantly exposed to currency risks, for a range of reasons, including:

• Geopolitical events – Trade wars, conflicts, or political instability can impact currency values.
• Inflation and interest rate changes – Central bank policies can cause sudden shifts in exchange rates.
• Market speculation – Traders and investors can drive rapid price swings.

For businesses, currency volatility can lead to higher transaction costs, as moving money internationally becomes more expensive. It can also result in unpredictable revenue, making it difficult for companies operating in multiple countries to manage pricing. Additionally, if a currency depreciates suddenly, businesses may face financial losses as profits shrink overnight.

Many businesses use forex hedging strategies (such as forward contracts and options) to manage risk, but these methods are often costly, complex, and require expert knowledge. A simpler, more efficient solution is needed—and that’s where stablecoins come in.

Why stablecoins are the perfect hedge for businesses

Stablecoins offer a practical way for businesses to protect themselves against currency volatility. Unlike traditional cryptocurrencies (which are often highly volatile), stablecoins are pegged to a fiat currency providing a reliable and steady value.

Key benefits for businesses:

• Price stability – With stablecoins, businesses don’t have to worry about sudden exchange rate swings affecting their revenue or costs. 
• Fast, low-cost transactions – International payments using stablecoins settle in minutes, not days, with significantly lower fees than traditional banking systems.
• No dependence on banks – Unlike wire transfers, stablecoin payments don’t require intermediaries, reducing delays and extra costs.
• Transparent and secure transactions – Built on blockchain technology, stablecoins ensure auditable, tamper-proof payments, adding an extra layer of security.

For businesses engaging in global trade, payroll, treasury management, or e-commerce, stablecoins offer a modern financial tool to streamline operations and avoid currency-related risks.

Choosing the right stablecoin for your business needs

Not all stablecoins are created equal. Businesses need to choose the right one based on factors like trust, regulation, and network efficiency.

Top stablecoins to consider:

💰 USDT (Tether) – The most widely used stablecoin, but with some concerns around transparency.
💰 USDC (USD Coin) – Fully backed by regulated financial institutions, making it a trusted option.
💰 DAI – A decentralized stablecoin, offering stability without relying on a central issuer.

💰 EUROC (Euro Coin) – A fully backed euro-denominated stablecoin issued by Circle, providing a stable digital alternative for euro transactions.

Key considerations:

• Regulatory compliance – Ensure the stablecoin follows financial regulations in your operating regions.
• Blockchain network – Some stablecoins operate on multiple blockchains (Ethereum, Tron, Solana). Choosing the right network affects transaction speed and fees.
• Liquidity and acceptance – Businesses should opt for stablecoins with high liquidity and broad industry adoption.

Choosing the right stablecoin is essential for seamless global transactions while ensuring stability and security.

The future of stablecoins in global finance

Stablecoins are no longer just a niche tool—they are gaining mainstream acceptance among businesses, financial institutions, and regulators.

Growing adoption – Companies like PayPal and Visa are integrating stablecoins into their payment systems.

Institutional backing – Banks and investment firms are exploring stablecoin use for settlements and asset management.

Regulation on the rise – Governments are working on stablecoin frameworks, aiming to balance innovation with security.

Emerging financial products – Stablecoin-based loans, savings accounts, and remittance services are expanding the financial ecosystem.

As stablecoins evolve, their role in global financial management will only grow, making them a key tool for businesses worldwide.

Conclusion

Currency volatility remains a major challenge for businesses operating globally, as traditional hedging strategies are often expensive and inefficient, leaving companies searching for a better way to manage financial risk.

As outlined above, stablecoins offer a simple, effective, and low-cost solution to tackling currency fluctuations. By providing price stability, fast transactions, and reduced banking dependency, stablecoins empower businesses to operate seamlessly across borders.

For companies looking to future-proof their global financial operations, stablecoins are an answer worth considering. Explore how to leverage them through a dedicated crypto business account, and our team is here to help you integrate them into your strategy.

Managing payments across borders remains one of the biggest operational challenges for expanding businesses. While digital transformation has touched nearly every aspect of commerce, international banking is currently lagging behind with separate systems for crypto and traditional currency transactions, creating unnecessary complexity.

Tap solves this problem by offering each business a multi-currency account with a dedicated IBAN that functions as a bridge between these two financial worlds. For businesses handling both crypto and fiat currencies, this means one unified system rather than juggling multiple accounts and conversion processes. This isn't just convenient - it directly impacts your bottom line by reducing transaction fees, speeding up settlements, and simplifying reconciliation.

If you're handling international payments or considering crypto adoption, this could significantly streamline your financial operations. Here's what you need to know.

What is a business IBAN?

An IBAN (International Bank Account Number) serves as your business's financial passport - a standardised identifier recognised across 78+ countries. Unlike traditional account numbers, a Business IBAN follows a structured format that includes country codes, bank identifiers, and your unique account number.

What sets Tap's approach apart is the integration of this established banking standard with crypto functionality. Instead of operating in parallel financial universes, your transactions (whether in euros, dollars, or Bitcoin) flow through a single identifiable channel.

For finance teams, this means the end of reconciliation nightmares. For your customers and partners, it means one consistent payment destination regardless of their preferred currency.

How Business IBANs Work

The mechanics behind modern business transactions

A Business IBAN functions as the digital coordinates for your company's financial location in the global banking ecosystem. When properly implemented, it creates a frictionless path for money to flow into and out of your business regardless of currency type or originating country.

Sending and receiving payments

When receiving payments, your Business IBAN acts as a universal identifier that works across different payment systems. Clients simply enter your IBAN (and sometimes BIC code) into their banking platform, eliminating the confusion of different account number formats across countries.

For outgoing payments, the process works in reverse. You provide the recipient's IBAN, specify the amount, and Tap's platform handles the routing complexities behind the scenes. This standardisation prevents the common errors that lead to payment delays and rejection fees.

What separates Tap's system from conventional banking is the integration layer that works with both crypto and traditional currencies. When a client pays in Bitcoin, for example, you can choose to receive it as cryptocurrency or have it automatically converted to your preferred fiat currency before it reaches your account.

Banking networks demystified

Business IBANs interact with several key payment networks:

SEPA (Single Euro Payments Area): Covering 36 European countries, SEPA processes euro-denominated transfers typically within one business day at low fixed costs. Your Business IBAN automatically routes euro payments through this network without requiring a separate setup.

SWIFT (Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication): The backbone of international banking, SWIFT connects over 11,000 financial institutions worldwide.

Real-world transaction example

Consider a UK-based e-commerce business receiving payment from a German customer:

• The customer initiates a €5,000 payment to the merchant's business IBAN
• The transaction enters the SEPA network and arrives in the merchant's Tap account within hours
• The merchant can either keep the funds in euros or convert to GBP at their preferred timing
• If choosing to convert, Tap executes the exchange at market rates with minimal spread
• The funds become available for business operations, supplier payments, or withdrawal

This same process that once required multiple accounts, banking relationships, and days of processing now happens automatically through a single business IBAN. For businesses managing dozens or hundreds of such transactions monthly, the efficiency gains and cost savings compound significantly.

The ability to handle these complex financial pathways through one unified system represents the core value proposition of modern business IBANs - simplicity on the surface, sophisticated routing underneath.

Cross-border advantages that impact your bottom line

The practical benefits of a business IBAN become immediately apparent in cross-border transactions:

• Reduced rejection rates: correctly formatted IBANs virtually eliminate payment failures due to incorrect account details
• Faster settlement times: direct routing through the SEPA network for European transactions
• Lower transaction costs: fewer intermediaries means fewer fees eating into your margins
• Simplified compliance: clearer transaction trails for more straightforward reporting

Bridging crypto and traditional finance

The crypto market now represents a $2 trillion opportunity that many businesses struggle to tap into due to technical and operational barriers. A business account with Tap eliminates these obstacles by providing:

• Seamless conversion between crypto and fiat currencies
• Consolidated financial reporting across all currency types
• Regulatory compliance built into the platform
• Reduced exposure to crypto volatility through instant conversion options

For businesses cautiously exploring crypto acceptance, this hybrid approach offers a low-risk entry point without requiring major infrastructure changes.

Implementation without disruption

Setting up a business account through Tap requires minimal operational changes:

• Fill in the contact form to initiate a callback
• Complete the business  account set-up and verification process
• Receive your unique account with IBAN
• Update payment details with clients and suppliers
• Integrate with your existing accounting systems

The entire process typically takes less than 48 hours, with Tap's team handling the technical heavy lifting.

Is a Tap business account right for your growth strategy?

It's worth considering a business account if your company:

• Operates in multiple countries or currencies
• Needs to reduce payment processing costs
• Wants to accept crypto payments without complexity
• Are looking to streamline financial operations

As payment landscapes continue evolving, businesses that implement flexible, future-proof solutions gain a significant competitive advantage in customer experience and operational efficiency.

Discover how a dedicated crypto-friendly business bank account with a built-in IBAN can streamline your operations. Speak with a dedicated Tap account manager to discuss potential savings based on your specific transaction patterns.

The business world won't wait for outdated payment systems to catch up. The question isn't whether you need more efficient payment solutions - it's how quickly you can implement them.

Let’s make your cross-border payments simple. Schedule a chat with our expert team and explore how Tap can work for your business.

Have you ever sent an invoice and then spent the next week chasing your payment? Or worse… have you ever lost crypto by sending it to the wrong address!? If you have, well, you’re not the only one. And that’s exactly what Request has come to fix.

Traditional systems for the most part still rely on an awkward mix of middlemen, manual data entry, and accounting software that belongs in a different era. On top of all that, human error will always be a factor. Request (REQ) aims to cut through these inefficiencies by offering a blockchain solution for creating, tracking, and settling payments.

Whether you're just dipping your toes into crypto or you're already swimming in the deep end of Web3 finance, Request stands out for more than one reason. So, let’s dive in and find out!

How Request Actually Works (Without Jargon)

At its core, Request Network allows someone to issue a secure, immutable payment request through blockchain technology. Think of it this way: instead of manually sending funds to a wallet address (which carries the very real risk of one mistyped character sending your money into the digital void), the payee generates an invoice through a smart contract. The payer then approves it with a single transaction. Simple, clean, and significantly less prone to expensive mistakes.

This model reduces common payment errors, improves recordkeeping for everyone involved, and creates what financial people love to call "a single source of truth." Because all payment data lives on-chain, financial histories become independently verifiable without needing to trust third-party payment processors or wade through conflicting records.

It goes without saying, your accountant’s job gets significantly simpler. Payment requests, transaction amounts, due dates, tax information, and complete audit trails can all exist within the same blockchain-based system.

Why Businesses Are Building on Request

Request has become something of an unsung hero in the Web3 infrastructure world. Many blockchain organizations (from DeFi protocols to gaming studios) have adopted it because it addresses challenges that traditional payment systems simply weren't designed to handle.

Here’s what makes it special:

• Reliable audit trails. Every single request is timestamped, immutable, and independently verifiable, an accountant's dream, really.
• Built-in compliance capabilities. Request's architecture naturally supports detailed tax reporting and regulatory workflows, which matters considerably more than it sounds.
• Easy integration options. Businesses can connect Request to existing platforms like WooCommerce through tools such as WooReq, or leverage Request Finance for more sophisticated requirements.
• True scalability. The network handles recurring payments, batch transactions, and multi-chain activity across more than 25 different blockchains without breaking a sweat.

This combination of automation, transparency, and flexibility has made Request valuable for all sorts of teams, no matter the size.

Understanding the REQ Token

While Request Network focuses on simplifying payment infrastructure, the REQ token functions as the operational backbone that keeps everything running smoothly. Rather than serving as the primary transaction currency (i.e., using it to buy a delicious cup of coffee) it works behind the scenes to power the network's various operations.

Every time someone creates or processes a payment request, associated network fees are paid in REQ. These fees are then automatically converted into whichever blockchain currency is needed at that moment (such as ETH for Ethereum network gas fees), allowing Request to operate seamlessly across multiple blockchain ecosystems. Importantly, a portion of the REQ used in these transactions gets burned (or in layman terms, permanently removed from circulation) which creates a natural deflationary pressure over time.

REQ also plays a meaningful role in network governance. Token holders can participate in decisions about protocol upgrades and development priorities. This ensures the network grows through community consensus rather than through centralized decision-making. Moreover, small REQ-based micro-fees help prevent spam and malicious activity by making excessive request creation economically impractical for bad actors.

The token's economic design emphasizes long-term sustainability. With a total supply capped at 1 billion tokens and a relatively decentralized distribution model, the ecosystem sidesteps many of the concentration risks that plague other projects. This structure reduces the likelihood of sudden large-scale token dumps and supports a more stable, resilient market over time.

Why Request Matters in the Crypto Ecosystem

As blockchain technology and the crypto industry as a whole continue to mature, infrastructure projects like Request are becoming increasingly critical to the ecosystem's practical utility. They're not trying to reinvent money itself; they're focused on making financial processes demonstrably smarter.

Who Benefits From Request?

• Major DeFi organizations including Aave, Fantom, and Maker use Request to manage complex multi-token accounting across their operations.
• Traditional enterprises have adopted Request for streamlined tax reporting and regulatory compliance, particularly those operating across multiple jurisdictions.
• Developers rely on Request's API to automate everything from routine payroll processing to recurring subscription billing, eliminating manual intervention.
• Web3 projects leverage Request Finance to manage payments in dozens of different digital assets simultaneously, avoiding the headache of manual conversion and tracking.

The network has also collaborated with Aleo for confidential payroll solutions that maintain compliance while protecting employee financial privacy.

Moreover, Request gained significant mainstream attention in 2021 when The Sandbox (one of the largest NFT gaming platforms) picked Request for its payment infrastructure. This partnership not only drove increased token activity but, more importantly, validated Request as a tool with genuine utility.

Bottom Line

Request shows us what financial infrastructure could be in the Web3 era. It’s transparent, automated, and built for a fast, digital economy. It bridges blockchain's reliability with real-world needs, proving that decentralization is as relevant as it has ever been.

Where to Get REQ

Are you excited about what Request brings to the table? You can get the REQ token directly on the Tap app and start exploring the future of digital payments and invoicing today.

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Wanting to stake ETH but don't have the full 32 ETH required? Enter Rocket Pool – the game-changing protocol that's making Ethereum staking accessible to everyone.

Founded in 2016 and launched on mainnet in October 2021, Rocket Pool breaks down the barriers to Ethereum staking by allowing anyone to participate with as little as 0.01 ETH. Or, if you want to run a node, you'll need 8 ETH (plus some RPL as collateral) instead of the standard 32 ETH.

In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about the protocol, including its two key tokens:

• RPL: The governance token that also serves as insurance for the protocol
• rETH: A liquid token that represents your staked ETH and automatically grows in value as rewards accumulate

By democratising access to staking, Rocket Pool stays true to Ethereum's vision of decentralisation while making it possible for anyone to earn rewards from securing the network, with no massive ETH holdings required!

How Rocket Pool works

Rocket Pool's design has three main components that work together to facilitate decentralised ETH staking: smart contracts, smart node network and minipools. 

The Smart Contracts Backbone

At the foundation of Rocket Pool lies a sophisticated set of smart contracts that govern all protocol operations. These contracts manage:

• Deposit pools where regular users stake their ETH
• The creation and management of minipools (validator nodes)
• The minting and burning of rETH tokens
• The staking and distribution of RPL rewards
• Protocol governance mechanisms

The smart contracts ensure that all operations happen in a trustless manner, removing the need for intermediaries and preserving the decentralised ethos of Ethereum. They incorporate various security measures, including extensive testing and multiple independent audits to safeguard user funds.

Key smart contracts include the Deposit Pool, Minipool Factory, and Token contracts. When users deposit ETH, the smart contracts either match them with node operators to create validators or mint rETH representing their stake and accumulated rewards.

Smart Node Network and Minipools explained

Rocket Pool's network consists of independent node operators running the Rocket Pool Smart Node software. This software interacts with the protocol's smart contracts and manages validator duties on the Ethereum network.

Node operators in Rocket Pool contribute 8 ETH (rather than the full 32 ETH required for solo staking), which is matched with 24 ETH from the protocol's deposit pool to form a standard 32 ETH validator. This validator unit is called a "minipool."

The process works as follows:

1. A node operator installs and configures the Smart Node software
2. They deposit 8 ETH and a minimum of 10% worth of ETH in RPL tokens as collateral
3. The protocol matches this with 24 ETH from regular stakers
4. A minipool (validator) is created and begins participating in Ethereum consensus
5. When the validator earns rewards, they are split proportionally between the node operator and the deposit pool

This system creates a symbiotic relationship between those who want to stake without running infrastructure (regular stakers) and those willing to operate nodes but don't have the full 32 ETH requirement (node operators).

The minipool design is particularly innovative because it allows for fractional validator ownership while maintaining security through RPL collateral requirements. If a node operator behaves maliciously or negligently, their RPL collateral can be slashed, protecting regular stakers from potential losses.

Understanding RPL and rETH

As mentioned earlier, Rocket Pool's ecosystem revolves around two main tokens, each serving specific functions within the protocol. 

What is RPL used for?

RPL (Rocket Pool Protocol Token) is the native utility and governance token of the Rocket Pool protocol, designed to align the interests of node operators with the long-term success of the protocol. Unlike rETH, which represents staked ETH, this ERC-20 token serves several specific functions:

1. Node operator collateral: Node operators must stake a minimum of 10% of their ETH value in RPL tokens as security against wrongdoing. This collateral can be slashed if the node operator behaves maliciously, protecting the protocol and its users.
2. Insurance mechanism: The RPL staked by node operators creates a protocol-wide insurance fund that helps secure user deposits and maintain trust in the system.
3. Additional rewards: Node operators can stake up to 150% of their ETH value in RPL to receive proportional RPL rewards, incentivising greater security deposits and alignment with protocol success.
4. Governance: RPL token holders have voting rights on protocol upgrades, parameter changes, and other governance decisions through the Rocket Pool DAO.

What is rETH and how does it work?

rETH is Rocket Pool's liquid staking token that represents staked ETH plus accumulated rewards. These automatically increase in value relative to ETH through a changing exchange rate rather than requiring separate reward claims.

How to stake ETH with Rocket Pool (step-by-step)

Staking ETH with Rocket Pool as a regular user (not a node operator) is straightforward and accessible to anyone with an Ethereum wallet. Here's a guide to getting started:

Option 1: Using the Rocket Pool dApp

1. Connect your wallet: Visit the Rocket Pool website and navigate to the staking interface. Connect your Ethereum wallet (MetaMask, WalletConnect, etc.).
2. Determine your stake amount: Decide how much ETH you want to stake (minimum 0.01 ETH).
3. Approve the transaction: After reviewing the details, confirm the transaction in your wallet. This will swap your ETH for rETH at the current exchange rate.
4. Receive rETH: Once the transaction is confirmed, you'll receive rETH in your wallet, representing your staked ETH plus future rewards.

Option 2: Using decentralised exchanges

1. Access a DEX: Open a decentralised exchange that supports rETH/ETH pairs (Uniswap, SushiSwap, Balancer, etc.).
2. Execute the swap: Trade your ETH for rETH through the exchange interface.
3. Store your rETH: Keep your rETH in your wallet or utilise it in compatible DeFi protocols.

Monitoring your stake

Once you hold rETH, your rewards accumulate automatically through the increasing exchange rate between rETH and ETH. To monitor your rewards:

1. Check the current rETH/ETH exchange rate on the Rocket Pool website or through blockchain explorers.
2. Calculate the difference between the current value of your rETH holdings and your initial investment.

Remember that you don't need to claim rewards separately - they're built into the increasing value of your rETH tokens. When you eventually want to unstake, you can simply swap your rETH back to ETH through the Rocket Pool interface or a decentralised exchange.

How to become a Rocket Pool node operator

For those with technical expertise and a desire to become more actively involved in Ethereum's consensus mechanism, becoming a Rocket Pool node operator offers an opportunity to run validators with reduced capital requirements while earning additional rewards.

Prerequisites:

• 8 ETH for each minipool (validator) you wish to create
• At least 10% of your ETH value in RPL tokens as collateral (for maximum rewards, up to 150%)
• A computer or server that meets the minimum requirements:
  
  • 4+ CPU cores
  • 8+ GB RAM
  • 100+ GB SSD storage
  • Stable internet connection
• Basic command line knowledge
• Understanding of Ethereum staking principles

Step-by-step process:

1. Set up your hardware and operating system: Either use a dedicated machine or a cloud service provider. Most node operators use Linux-based systems.
2. Install Ethereum clients: Set up an execution client (Geth, Nethermind, etc.) and a consensus client (Prysm, Lighthouse, etc.).
3. Install Rocket Pool Smart Node software: Follow the detailed instructions on the Rocket Pool documentation site to install the node software.
4. Configure your node: Set up network settings, client preferences, and MEV-boost options if desired.
5. Deposit ETH and RPL: Use the node software to deposit your 8 ETH and the required RPL collateral.
6. Create your minipool: Once your deposits are confirmed, create a minipool which will be matched with 24 ETH from the deposit pool.
7. Monitor and maintain your node: Keep your system updated, monitor performance, and participate in protocol governance if desired.

The future of Rocket Pool

As Ethereum continues to evolve, Rocket Pool is positioning itself for sustained growth and adaptation. In coming years, several key developments and trends will likely shape its trajectory.

Protocol upgrades:

The Rocket Pool development team has outlined an ambitious roadmap with several major upgrades:

• Saturn upgrade series: A comprehensive set of improvements focusing on scalability, capital efficiency, and user experience. The Saturn upgrade is a multi-phase initiative, with Saturn 0 completed and further phases underway.
• Distributed Validator Technology (DVT): Implementation of validator key distribution across multiple operators, enhancing security and reducing single points of failure.
• Greater MEV optimisation: Advanced strategies for maximising Maximal Extractable Value for stakers while maintaining ethical standards.
• Cross-chain expansion: Potential expansion to other proof-of-stake networks or layer-2 solutions that require validation services.

Scaling with Ethereum:

As Ethereum implements its scaling roadmap, Rocket Pool will adapt to support:

• Danksharding and proto-danksharding implementations
• Increasing validator requirements as Ethereum grows
• Adjustments to staking economics as Ethereum's monetary policy evolves
• Supporting specialised validation roles that might emerge in Ethereum's future

Market position and growth:

While Rocket Pool currently holds a smaller market share than some competitors, its emphasis on decentralisation potentially positions it well for sustainable growth. Here are key aspects worth keeping an eye on:

• Increasing regulatory scrutiny may favour more decentralised staking solutions
• Growing community awareness of centralisation risks could drive users toward Rocket Pool
• The protocol's conservative approach to security and upgrades builds long-term trust

How to buy Rocket Pool (RPL)

If you’re looking to accumulate RPL, you can do so securely and easily through the Tap app. Simply download the app, create an account and complete the identity verification process. Once verified, you can buy RPL with a wide range of supported cryptocurrencies or fiat currencies (through debit card or bank transfer). Ready to dive into the world of staking, or just go along for the ride? Tap’s ready for you. 

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Numeraire är ett banbrytande projekt som kombinerar dataanalys, AI och blockchain för att skapa vad som beskrivs som världens första AI-drivna och crowdsourcade hedgefond. Det grundades i oktober 2015 av Richard Craib, en sydafrikansk teknolog, och representerar ett helt nytt sätt att närma sig finansmarknaderna.

I stället för att förlita sig på traditionella analytiker, låter Numerai tusentals data scientists världen över tävla om att bygga de mest träffsäkra maskininlärningsmodellerna för börsprognoser – modeller som sedan styr hedgefondens faktiska investeringsbeslut.

TL;DR

AI-styrd hedgefond:
Numeraire (NMR) är en Ethereum-baserad token som används i Numerai – en hedgefond baserad i San Francisco som fattar beslut med hjälp av AI, utan mänskliga känslor.

Data science-tävling:
Numerai anordnar världens tuffaste datatävling, där deltagare belönas med NMR-tokens för modeller som förbättrar fondens resultat. Mer än 200 000 USD delas ut varje månad.

Crowdsourcade prognoser:
Deltagare använder Numerais krypterade data för att skapa maskininlärningsmodeller och skicka in sina prognoser, som sedan utvärderas och belönas.

Staking-mekanism:
För att delta måste användare hålla och satsa NMR-tokens – både för att visa förtroende för sina modeller och för att få tillgång till olika funktioner i ekosystemet.

Hur fungerar Numeraire?

Numerai använder ett unikt system där hedgefondens strategi formas av en global datatävling. Så här går det till:

1. Numerai släpper anonymiserad, krypterad finansiell data varje vecka.
2. Data scientists laddar ner datan och bygger modeller som förutspår hur aktier kommer prestera.
3. Prognoserna skickas in och utvärderas utifrån hur väl de stämmer med marknadsutfallet.

För att delta på riktigt måste deltagare satsa (stakea) NMR-tokens på sina inskickade modeller. Går det bra? Då får de mer NMR. Går det dåligt? Då förloras en del av insatsen. Den här mekanismen uppmuntrar till kvalitet framför kvantitet – du måste tro på dina egna modeller.

Till skillnad från många andra projekt använder Numerai inte en enskild vinnande modell. Istället kombineras de mest framgångsrika bidragen till en större “meta-modell” som fonden baserar sina investeringar på. Det gör systemet mer motståndskraftigt än om man bara litade på en enda förutsägelse.

Vem skapade Numeraire?

Richard Craib grundade Numerai 2015. Han studerade matematik och ekonomi vid University of Cape Town och senare på University of California, Berkeley. Innan Numerai arbetade han inom globala aktiemarknader, bland annat på Prudential (M&G).

Craib ville bygga en ny typ av hedgefond – en som drivs av kollektiv intelligens, transparenta incitament och teknik, snarare än traditionella analytiker. Numerai har sedan dess vuxit till att attrahera några av världens skarpaste data scientists.

Vad är NMR?

NMR är den inbyggda tokenen i Numerai-ekosystemet och används för flera viktiga funktioner:

• Tävlingar: Deltagare måste satsa NMR för att delta i tävlingarna och tjäna belöningar.
• Styrning: Tokeninnehavare kan delta i beslut kring plattformens framtid och förändringar.
• Incitament: Den staking-baserade modellen säkerställer att deltagarna bidrar med seriösa modeller.
• Belöningar: Numerai delar ut över 200 000 USD i NMR varje månad till framgångsrika modeller.

Tokenen är en ERC-20-token och fungerar smidigt inom hela Ethereum- och DeFi-ekosystemet.

Hur kan jag köpa och sälja NMR?

Du kan enkelt köpa, sälja och hantera NMR direkt i Tap-appen, tillsammans med dina övriga kryptotillgångar. Appen erbjuder ett enkelt gränssnitt och säker förvaring, vilket gör det lätt att komma igång.

Värt att nämna är att NMR:s utveckling är nära kopplad till Numerais hedgefonds framgång och tillväxten av dess globala nätverk av data scientists.

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Polkastarter represents one of the leading decentralised launchpad platforms in the blockchain ecosystem, focused on empowering early-stage crypto projects to raise funds and launch tokens. First launched in December 2020, it has established itself as a prominent player in the Initial DEX Offering (IDO) space, providing a secure and efficient environment for project launches.

The platform has facilitated the launch of over 100 projects, demonstrating its significant impact on the crypto funding landscape. Polkastarter also features a dedicated marketing team, including video production and design, providing support beyond just the technical infrastructure.

TLDR

Multi-chain launchpad: Polkastarter is a decentralised platform that enables crypto projects to conduct token sales and fundraising campaigns across multiple blockchain networks.

Fixed-price swaps: The platform's main offering is its fixed-swap smart contract, which allows projects to easily launch liquidity pools that execute orders at a fixed price, rather than using traditional AMM models.

Cross-chain support: Polkastarter currently supports Ethereum, BNB Chain, Polygon, Celo, and Avalanche, providing flexibility for projects across different ecosystems.

Native token (POLS): POLS serves as the platform's utility token, providing access to IDO participation, governance rights, and various platform benefits.

What is Polkastarter (POLS)?

Polkastarter is a decentralised launchpad platform designed to democratise access to early-stage crypto investments through Initial DEX Offerings (IDOs). The platform serves as a bridge between innovative blockchain projects seeking funding and investors looking for early access to promising tokens.

The platform's core innovation lies in its fixed-swap mechanism, which provides predictable pricing for token sales rather than the variable pricing models used by automated market makers. This approach offers greater transparency and certainty for both projects and investors during token launch events.

Beyond the launchpad functionality, Polkastarter runs an internal incubation and advisory program, bringing together experience and lessons learned from 100+ project launches to nurture and grow Web3 projects, helping to ensure that projects launched on the platform receive proper guidance and support.

The platform takes security seriously by carefully reviewing each project before allowing it to launch. This screening process helps ensure that only legitimate, high-quality projects reach investors, protecting users from scams and poorly developed tokens.

Who created Polkastarter?

Polkastarter was founded in 2020 by Daniel Stockhaus, Tiago Martins, and Miguel Leite. The founding team brought together diverse expertise in business development, technology, and product management to address the growing need for reliable fundraising infrastructure in the decentralised finance space.

Daniel Stockhaus serves as CEO and Co-founder, leading the platform's strategic direction and business development efforts. Under his leadership, the platform has grown from a startup concept to one of the most recognised launchpad platforms in the crypto industry.

The founding team recognised the challenges faced by early-stage crypto projects in accessing capital and the difficulties investors encountered in finding legitimate investment opportunities. Their solution was to create a platform that could serve both sides of this equation while maintaining high standards for security and project quality.

How does Polkastarter work?

Launchpad mechanism

To participate in token launches, users need to hold POLS tokens, with different amounts unlocking various access levels. The more POLS you hold, the better your chances of getting into popular launches and the more you can invest.

Projects set fixed prices for their tokens rather than using changing market prices. This means investors know exactly what they're paying and how many tokens they'll get before they invest.

Multi-chain infrastructure

Polkastarter works across several different blockchains, so projects can pick the one that best fits their needs. Some chains have lower fees, others are faster, and some have different user communities.

Project curation and support

As mentioned above, before any project can launch on Polkastarter, it goes through a thorough review process. The team checks the technology, verifies who's behind the project, and evaluates whether the business makes sense.

Projects also get help with marketing, strategy advice, and technical support to give them the best chance of success both during their launch and afterwards.

What Is POLS?

POLS is the native utility token of the Polkastarter ecosystem, serving a range of functions within the ecosystem:

• Tier access: Users must hold and stake POLS tokens to access different participation tiers in IDO launches, with higher holdings providing better benefits and guaranteed allocations.
• Governance rights: POLS holders can participate in platform governance decisions, voting on proposals that affect the platform's future development and policies.
• Staking rewards: Token holders can stake their POLS to earn rewards while maintaining their tier status for IDO participation.
• Platform fees: POLS can be used to pay for various platform services and may provide discounts on transaction fees.

How can I buy and sell POLS?

POLS tokens are available on Tap, allowing verified users to easily buy, sell, and trade the token. Before investing in POLS, we encourage you to consider how useful the token is on the Polkastarter platform and how much the launchpad space is growing. The token’s value depends largely on the platform’s success and how widely IDO fundraising is adopted.

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