Blockchain Week: A Short Review

The dynamic and often unpredictable landscape of blockchain technology mirrors a high-stakes hockey game, where players vie for strategic positions in the center of the rink. However, as Wayne Gretzky wisely noted, success lies not in following the crowd but in anticipating where the puck is headed. Similarly, in the Web3-blockchain industry, it’s crucial to skate towards emerging trends and future potential rather than getting caught in the congestion of current hotspots.

Make no mistake there was great energy at the show. Reflecting on the insights gained from this week’s Paris Blockchain Week, however, it’s evident that there’s a significant misalignment within the industry. From the diversity and practicality of use cases beyond cryptocurrency-trading, exchanges and finance to VC and PE investment strategies, government regulation, the long-term health of leading companies, and future growth areas, the industry’s trajectory is subject to varied estimates and assessments.

Like the open-source industry back in the day, purists wielded significant influence at the show this week. (For instance, there was a notable focus on NFTs and gaming, driven by purist interests.) Decentralization, a key ideal among Web3 purists, fundamentally contradicts conventional banking and security and scalability of AI applications. (Purists were also divided on whether ETFs are beneficial or detrimental to the industry.)

As we navigate this evolving landscape, it’s essential to remain adaptable and forward-thinking, ready to capitalize on emerging opportunities and drive innovation in the blockchain space. By embracing Gretzky’s philosophy of skating to where the puck is going, rather than where it has been, we can position ourselves for success in the ever-changing world of Web3 and blockchain technology.