Some things I've learned after hodling bitcoin since early 2017
1. Never believe anyone's price predictions. 2. Don't "diversify" into other cryptos; none of them are actually decentralized, everything except bitcoin is a shitcoin (yes, really), and it's all gambling. The point of bitcoin is not gambling, but to end modern day slavery (fiat currency). 3. When everyone you know is talking about bitcoin, you're at the top of a bull market. You'll likely be too exuberant to realize it though. It will be obvious in hindsight. 4. Don't "trade some altcoins on the side to get more bitcoin". You are not that smart, and the overwhelming probability is that you will get wrecked. 5. DCA into bitcoin. Ignore your emotions. Don't try to time the market. Just stack what you can every paycheck. 6. Don't be too excited about bitcoin; people will feel like you're scamming them even though you're just trying help. 7. Go to meetups & conferences. Don't be isolated. Bitcoiners are generally very awesome people. 8. When people ask you about how to buy bitcoin, send them to a BITCOIN-ONLY company. Example for why: My cousin bought bitcoin (on Coinbase) during the bull market, then sold it for shiba on the same platform and now she pretty much lost everything. Bitcoin-only companies are the safest option to keep newbies from doing newbie things. 9. Be on #bitcoin twitter and nostr. Obviously if you're reading this, you're already here...but I didn't get on twitter until 2020 and can tell you that it's a lot less lonely hodling bitcoin when you see a bunch of other people on this platform experiencing the same things you are. 10. Be skeptical of influencers. Even me (I'm not a huge account, but still). Some are good, some are bad. Even if they have good intentions, their judgement can be clouded by bad incentives. 11. Stop trying to convince everyone you know that bitcoin will make everything better (even though it will). Instead, be a good resource for the people who eventually reach out to you about it. Be known as "the bitcoin guy" and let people come to you when they're ready. Have good content prepared for them to read/watch when they do. That is all. It's been a great ride so far and I'm happy to know you guys. #bitcoin #dyor #crypto2023
Yesterday, it was reported that Russia is considering moving back to the US dollar as part of a wide-ranging economic partnership with President Trump.
In the past 3–4 years, Russia has strongly advocated reducing reliance on the USD, fueling the major "de-dollarization trade" narrative.
Several other countries have followed suit, reducing exposure to dollar assets — a key reason for the DXY's decline.
The massive rally in gold and silver has also been driven by this trend, as countries dump Treasuries and buy precious metals.
But now this trade may be over.
Russia is now planning to shift toward a dollar-based settlement system, which would boost USD demand.
A stronger USD has historically been bearish for assets, so metals, equities, and crypto will suffer.
Metals will be hit hardest, as a strong USD undermines the debasement trade narrative.
For equities and crypto, it will be bearish but likely not for long.
With more energy supply entering markets after a Russia–US partnership, inflation will drop and the Fed will become less hawkish.
This reduces the odds of monetary easing, but at least removes Fed uncertainty.
Remember, BTC rose in 2023 despite Fed rate hikes and QT.
Risk-on assets love certainty — if this deal is finalized, it will be mid- to long-term bullish for stocks and crypto.
Gold and silver, however, could enter a multi-year downtrend.
Building Decentralized AI Agents: The Future of Autonomous Business Operations
The business landscape is evolving rapidly, driven by the rise of Decentralized AI Agents—autonomous systems powered by blockchain that enable secure, self-governing decision-making. These intelligent agents optimize operations, reduce dependence on centralized control, and create smarter, more adaptable business processes. What are Decentralized AI Agents Decentralized AI agents are intelligent, self-operating systems that function without human intervention or a central authority. Built on Blockchain for AI, they ensure transparency, security, and resilience. Unlike traditional AI, which operates under centralized control, decentralized AI agents function across distributed networks, eliminating single points of failure. For example, instead of a single centralized AI managing a logistics network, decentralized AI agents independently oversee sourcing, delivery, and inventory management, recording every transaction securely on the blockchain. How Decentralized AI Agents Are Transforming Business Operations AI for business operations has evolved far beyond simple automation. Decentralized AI agents are revolutionizing how companies handle complex, data-driven tasks, creating more efficient, adaptable, and cost-effective workflows. 1. Automating Complex Workflows Decentralized AI agents manage multi-step business processes, such as contract negotiations, supply chain coordination, and performance tracking. For instance, an AI agent overseeing procurement can source vendors, negotiate terms, and finalize contracts using blockchain-powered smart contracts. This automation ensures secure, transparent, and efficient operations while reducing administrative overhead. 2. Reducing Human Oversight: The Future of AI Automation Traditional business operations require extensive teams to monitor tasks and make decisions. Decentralized AI agents reduce this reliance by autonomously managing key processes. For example, in logistics, an AI agent can track shipments, reroute deliveries based on traffic or weather conditions, and update customers—all without human intervention. This lowers labor costs, reduces human error, and accelerates response times. 3. Increasing Adaptability Markets shift rapidly, and businesses must keep pace. Decentralized AI agents continuously analyze real-time data and adapt accordingly. An AI agent can monitor competitor pricing, customer behavior, and inventory levels in an online retail environment. It can then adjust prices instantly, launch personalized promotions, or reorder stock before shortages occur, keeping the business competitive and agile. 4. Real-World Example: AI-Driven eCommerce Imagine an e-commerce platform powered entirely by decentralized AI agents: One agent tracks product demand and updates pricing dynamically.Another manages warehouse inventory, preventing overstocking or shortages.A third handles customer service using natural language processing. These agents work simultaneously and autonomously, reducing operational costs and improving customer satisfaction—without human involvement. Enhancing Decision-Making with Blockchain-Powered AI Decentralized AI agents do more than execute tasks—they make strategic business decisions in real time. In Decentralized Finance (DeFi), AI agents are already transforming financial services: Automated trading bots analyze markets and execute trades instantly.Trustless lending platforms assess creditworthiness and set loan terms autonomously.AI-powered portfolio managers track asset performance and adjust investments. Beyond finance, decentralized AI is reshaping marketing, HR, and supply chain management, enabling smarter, faster decisions than traditional models. Securing Data Transactions with Blockchain Blockchain serves as the foundation of decentralized AI agents, ensuring data integrity and security. Key advantages include: Data privacy through encryption, preventing unauthorized access.Immutable transaction logs create transparent and verifiable decisions.Smart contracts enable trustless, automated business agreements. For instance, a global shipping company could use decentralized AI agents to track goods, manage customs processing, and handle payments securely, ensuring tamper-proof and verifiable transactions. Challenges and the Road to Adoption Despite their potential, decentralized AI agents face several hurdles: Ethical AI: Ensuring fairness and preventing bias in decision-making.Scalability: Handling large datasets efficiently without compromising performance.Interoperability: Enabling AI agents to function across multiple blockchains and legacy systems. The Future of Decentralized AI in Business The next frontier could be the rise of Autonomous AI Enterprises, where companies operate entirely through decentralized AI agents. Imagine an e-commerce business where AI agents oversee product sourcing, pricing, marketing, and customer service—eliminating the need for human oversight. In DeFi, this shift is already underway, and industries like healthcare, logistics, and entertainment are beginning to adopt similar AI-driven models. Blockchain-backed AI could also revolutionize accreditation, ensuring tamper-proof records of employee skills, performance, and compliance certifications. Conclusion Decentralized AI agents are more than just another technological advancement—they are fundamentally reshaping the future of business operations. By combining blockchain’s security with AI’s autonomy, these agents enable faster decisions, smarter processes, and more resilient business models. The future belongs to businesses that embrace this innovation. Are you ready to power your operations with decentralized AI? Let’s build the future of autonomous, intelligent, and secure business operations—one AI agent at a time. $VANRY #vanar @Vanarchain
Fogo is a Layer 1 blockchain built for DeFi applications. It is based on Solana's architecture and implements multi-local consensus to achieve minimal latency. The Fogo client is based on Firedancer and maintains full compatibility with the Solana Virtual Machine (SVM).
Applications that require high throughput and low latency, that are difficult to implement on other blockchains are possible on Fogo, such as:
Fogo launches with a clear and principled approach: deliver a powerful, open network today, while building methodically toward the future. This post outlines at a high level the foundational Day 1 architecture you can build on from launch. The Engine: A Custom Firedancer Client. Fogo’s core is a custom Firedancer client, built on performant Agave code with Fogo-specific modifications. The Fogo client is a powerful adaptation focused on delivering operational stability and speed in Fogo’s unique environment. Network consensus is compatible with improvements to Firedancer as they emerge. Consensus: Stability First. All initial active validators are currently collocated in a single, high-performance data center in Asia, where they are adjacent to a center of gravity for other crypto exchange servers. Validators are also running full nodes in alternate data centers and are on standby for immediate contingency rotation. Validators: A Performance-Based Set. The initial active validator set are highly performant validators that have been through testnet and are aligned with the criteria advanced by Kairos. Network performance to date indicates these validators operate with a high standard of measurable performance and uptime from day one. The Canvas: A Public, Trustless Environment. Fogo launches with an open canvas. Any protocol, from a DEX to a Layer 2-style construct, can deploy and innovate. No one needs permission to deploy an application or program to the blockchain. Furthermore, any builder can co-locate their infrastructure next to Fogo validators for the lowest possible latency, creating a truly level playing field for performance. @Fogo Official #Fogo $FOGO
Every time the market drops, the same thing happens.
Bitcoin falls and people panic.
Suddenly everyone says: “Bitcoin is dead.” “It’s going to zero.” “It’s a scam.” “It has no value.”
But this isn’t new:
In 2013, they said it was dead. In 2015, they said it was over. In 2018, they said the bubble had popped forever. In 2022, they said crypto was finished.
And now they’re saying it again.
Every cycle, when the price crashes, people lose hope and forget that this has happened before.
When Bitcoin is going up, everyone calls it the future. When Bitcoin is going down, everyone calls it a scam.
Years later, when the price recovers, the same people who said “it’s going to zero” will start asking:
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Why Every OpenClaw Agent Needs The Neutron Memory API
OpenClaw is impressive. But the thing that separates a good agent from a dominant one has nothing to do with how well it acts. It comes down to how long it remembers, and where that memory lives. That's what Neutron adds. Right now, OpenClaw agents remember in files. MEMORY.md, USER.md, SOUL.md. That works until you restart the agent, move machines, spawn another instance, or let it run long enough that context becomes dead weight. At that point, memory becomes technical debt. Neutron is a memory API that gives agents permanent memory. When OpenClaw integrates Neutron, memory is no longer tied to a filesystem, a device, or a single runtime. The agent can shut down, restart somewhere else, or be replaced entirely, and still pick up where it left off. Intelligence survives the instance. The agent becomes disposable. The memory outlives it. Neutron compresses what actually matters into knowledge objects that can be queried, reasoned over, and reused. Instead of dragging its full history forward on every prompt, the agent queries memory like it queries tools. This changes the economics of long-running agents. Context windows stay manageable. Token costs go down. Background agents, always-on workflows, and multi-agent systems start working like actual infrastructure instead of experiments. Neutron turns OpenClaw into something more durable. Knowledge persists across processes. Memory survives restarts. What the agent learns compounds over time. There's another problem worth flagging. Local agent memory is mutable, silent, and easy to poison. Plugins can overwrite it. Prompts can corrupt it. You often have no idea what the agent learned, when it learned it, or why it behaves the way it does. Neutron changes that by giving memory history. Real lineage. Knowledge has an origin. You can see what was learned, when, and from where. You can decide what is allowed to write to memory and what isn't. This matters because it's how you avoid losing control as agents gain more autonomy and real-world permissions. And this is what separates Neutron from Supermemory. Supermemory helps with recall. Neutron rearchitects how memory works. Supermemory is a hosted recall service. It injects relevant snippets back into context. It's convenient, and it's useful. But the memory remains opaque, service-owned, and tied to a vendor. The agent rents its memory from a third party. Neutron treats memory as infrastructure. Memory becomes agent-agnostic, portable across tools, and durable across time. The same knowledge can be consumed by OpenClaw today, another agent tomorrow, and an entirely different system next year. Agents come and go. The knowledge stays. Neutron removes OpenClaw's ceiling. OpenClaw proved agents can act. Neutron makes sure what they learn survives. Together, they're the strongest setup available. An agent that forgets is disposable. One that remembers permanently is infrastructure. @Vanarchain #vanar $VANRY
With these value propositions, stablecoins offer four key use cases for payment applications:
1. Save: Stablecoins allow people and businesses from all over the world to access a reliable store of value. 2. Spend: Stablecoins can be spent with certain merchants as a new form of money. 3. Send: Stablecoins can be sent across borders, to any business or person, everywhere. 4. Earn: Stablecoins offer permissionless access to interest and yield-bearing opportunities.
Plasma is best way to use for Stablecoins Payments and solve all key use cases for stablecoin payments.
Plasma separates validator nodes (which propose and finalize blocks) from non-validator nodes (which serve RPCs and follow the chain without affecting consensus). This allows Plasma to:Keep the validator set small and secureLet RPC providers scale independentlyAvoid adding consensus or networking risk
Each validator runs one consensus node and one execution node, connected directly. Except for its partners, nodes don’t communicate outside their layer peers (CL↔CL, EL↔EL). This separation keeps the system predictable, secure, and easy to reason about. The Scaling Challenge As usage increases, more apps and users need RPC access to query chain data or send transactions. But if each new execution node must be paired with a new consensus node, scaling becomes inefficient and risks bloating the validator set.Letting RPC providers run additional validators just to meet read demand isn’t practical or aligned with Plasma’s performance goals. The Solution: Non-Validator Nodes Non-validator nodes behave like consensus nodes but don’t participate in consensus. Instead, they ‘follow’ a trusted validator for finalized blocks and fork-choice updates.Key behaviors: They subscribe to a validator’s consensus node to stay in sync.They expose the same fork-choice view that a real validator would.They only read, so they don’t add load or introduce security risks. To applications, a non-validator node looks exactly like a full node: it can respond to RPC requests and reflect the current state but it cannot propose blocks or vote. Benefits of This Design
Summary Comparison
Progressive Decentralization Plasma is following a progressive decentralization model. Rather than opening the validator set from day one, the initial focus is on stability, performance, and developer usability. This approach prioritizes network reliability while core protocol components are still evolving.Decentralization remains a long-term objective, but it will be phased in gradually. The validator set will expand through three stages: Centralized Operation – During testnet, all consensus nodes are operated by the Plasma team to enable rapid iteration and minimize operational risk.Trusted Validator Set – After mainnet launch, a small group of external validators will join, selected for reliability, operational readiness, and geographic distribution.Permissionless Participation – Over time, validator access will open to the public, supported by protocol-level safeguards for safety, liveness, and economic alignment. This staged rollout balances decentralization with network integrity. It allows the protocol to harden before handing over critical infrastructure responsibilities to a broader validator set. Plasma Node Types Plasma supports multiple node types based on architecture roles and operational goals.
Non-Validator Nodes Non-validator nodes are read-only participants that follow the blockchain without participating in consensus decisions. They provide a lightweight way to access blockchain data without the overhead of consensus participation. Key Capabilities Block reception: Receive and process blocks from the networkChain synchronization: Maintain an up-to-date copy of the blockchainCatchup mechanism: Automatically detect and recover missing blocksAPI access: Provide the same API endpoints as validators for querying blockchain state Technical Characteristics Simplified configuration with node ID (string identifier)Read-only access to validator public keysConnect through bootstrap nodesCannot propose blocks, vote, or trigger view changes
RPC Providers Hosted RPC infrastructure with production-grade availability and support.Current Providers QuickNode: High-performance global infrastructure with monitoring and alerting.Tenderly: Managed access with built-in observability, simulations, and incident tooling. Benefits Immediate production-ready accessSLAs and support includedScales with application demand Use Cases Production applications requiring high availabilityTeams prioritizing development over infrastructureProjects needing enterprise support and guarantees Consensus Nodes Consensus nodes are the core participants in the Plasma consensus layer, implementing the Fast-Hotstuff Byzantine Fault Tolerant (BFT) protocol. The network can tolerate up to f faulty nodes in a system of 3f+1 total validators. Key Responsibilities Block production: Validators take turns proposing blocks using round-robin selection based on the current viewVoting: Validate incoming blocks and cast votes that are aggregated into Quorum Certificates (QCs)Consensus participation: Actively participate in view changes, timeouts, and the 2-chain finalization ruleState management: Maintain full consensus state including vote aggregation, view tracking, and block finalization Technical Requirements BLS keypair for cryptographic operations and vote aggregationFull node configuration with validator ID (numeric identifier)Access to execution layer (reth) for block productionP2P networking capabilities for unicast and broadcast messaging #Plasma @Plasma $XPL
American banking giant Goldman Sachs has disclosed substantial exposure to the cryptocurrency market, with its latest filing indicating holdings worth over $2 billion. Specifically, the Wall Street titan reported $2.36 billion in crypto-linked investments in its latest Form 13F filing for the fourth quarter of 2025, representing about 0.33% of its total equity portfolio. The holdings, reported as of December 31, 2025, are entirely through regulated spot exchange-traded funds (ETFs) rather than direct ownership of digital assets. Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) make up the bulk of the allocation. Bitcoin-focused ETFs account for about $1.1 billion, largely through BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust, with additional exposure via other issuers. Ethereum ETFs represent approximately $1.0 billion. The filing also shows smaller allocations to alternative cryptocurrencies, with XRP-related ETFs totaling around $153 million, while Solana (SOL)-linked funds account for roughly $108 million. Goldman Sachs portfolio hit with volatility It is worth noting that since the end of the reporting period, market volatility has likely reduced the portfolio’s value. A pullback in Bitcoin prices shortly after year-end would have weighed on the bank’s indirect exposure, considering the leading digital currency lost the $90,000 support at one point, plunging as low as $61,000. By using ETFs, the bank avoids the operational demands of direct crypto custody, including infrastructure, security, and compliance requirements. ETF exposure allows positions to be managed within existing trading and risk systems. However, spot crypto ETFs charge management fees that can amount to millions of dollars annually on a multibillion-dollar allocation. In addition, ETF shares may not perfectly track underlying asset prices during periods of volatility. Indirect investors also miss out on staking rewards and other blockchain-based incentives available to direct token holders. $XRP $BTC $ETH