Afterburner by ENJINSTARTER

Igniting A Revolution: Unleashing Web3 Loyalty Programs Across Utility Sectors 🌐 Dr. Vivek Bhandari, CTO at Powerledger, sheds light on the revolutionary potential of Web3 loyalty programs in the utility industry. Comparing the Web3 revolution to the early days of the internet, Bhandari envisions a future where utility bill payments not only sustain essential services but also trigger a cascade of rewards. Web3 loyalty programs, powered by blockchain and decentralization, have the capacity to reshape the dynamics between utility providers and consumers across electricity, water, and gas sectors. Bhandari outlines how Web3 loyalty programs can bring vitality to mundane utility transactions. Customers stand to earn tokens for responsible energy usage, timely payments, and referrals in the electricity sector. Similarly, water utilities can incentivize conservation efforts, efficient technologies, and leak reporting. Gas utilities, leveraging Web3, can reward customers for adopting energy-efficient appliances and participating in conservation programs. These tokenized rewards create a symbiotic relationship between consumers and providers, fostering sustainability and positive engagement. The hypothetical scenario breaks down the collective potential of Web3 loyalty programs across utilities, projecting substantial savings and fostering loyalty. Bhandari emphasizes real-world examples in various industries, where successful Web3 loyalty programs reward consumers for responsible behavior. The collective dream envisions a commitment to sustainability and responsible resource management, empowering utility sectors to redefine their role. As the world embraces decentralized technologies, the fusion of loyalty programs and blockchain emerges as a catalyst for a future where customer engagement and loyalty fuel progress across the entire utility landscape. It's time for utilities to unleash the true power of their customers. For the full article please visit https://lnkd.in/dNakvB4V #Web3 #UtilitySector #Blockchain #Decentralization #Sustainability #LoyaltyPrograms #FutureTech #CustomerEngagement #RevolutionizingUtilities #web3news #enjinstarter #ayafoundation #afterburner

Cambridge Study: Ethereum Consumes 28x Less Energy Than American Express ⚡🌐 A recent report from the University of Cambridge reveals that Ethereum, the world's second-largest crypto protocol, consumes 28 times less energy than American Express. The study compares the annual energy consumption of Ethereum to several legacy-based financial and corporate businesses. Ethereum's annual energy consumption of 7 Gigawatts per hour (GWh) is significantly lower than American Express (202.73 GWh) and Deutsche Bank (437 GWh). When considering assets under management (AUM), the Deutsche Bank, with over $820 billion in assets, uses 25 times more energy per dollar managed than the Ethereum blockchain network. The report also highlights Ethereum's energy efficiency compared to other entities like Netflix, the Burj Khalifa, and household appliances. The shift from a proof-of-work (PoW) to a proof-of-stake (PoS) consensus algorithm earlier in the year has contributed to Ethereum's increased energy efficiency. The move to PoS eliminates the need for miners to compete in validating transactions and creating new Ether assets, making the network more sustainable. Ethereum's role as a central hub for decentralized finance (DeFi) and its open-source, decentralized protocol have solidified its position in the crypto market with a 19% market share. The recent launch of the decentralized Verifiable Random Function (dVRF) service on the Ethereum mainnet by the SupraOracles dApp further enhances Ethereum's capabilities by allowing blockchain protocols to securely access real-world information. For the full article please visit https://lnkd.in/dRJXuQ3z #Ethereum #Blockchain #EnergyEfficiency #DeFi #CryptoMarket #enjinstarter #ayafoundation #afterburner #web3news #nfts 🌐💡🔗

Dubai's Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (VARA) Grants Conditional License to Enjinstarter's AYA Platform 🌐💳 Dubai's Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (VARA) has issued a conditional operating license to AYA Platform, a web3 launchpad subsidiary of Enjinstarter. While the license remains non-operational until all obligations are met, AYA Platform has received regulatory approval to operate as a virtual asset service provider (VASP) offering virtual asset management and investment services. AYA Platform, based in Dubai, aims to act as a pro-climate launchpad supporting breakthrough technologies in climate innovation. The platform will serve as a financial intermediary for green projects, connecting institutional investors to web3 solutions related to climate, including carbon credits trading, reforestation, mangrove conservation, and sustainable agriculture. This move aligns with Dubai's commitment to climate action and its involvement in various sustainable blockchain projects, including initiatives focused on improving agricultural processes. The granting of a conditional license to AYA Platform reflects the regulatory efforts to facilitate responsible and sustainable development in the digital asset space. The announcement comes in the wake of increased attention on climate-related initiatives within the blockchain and digital asset industry, particularly after the United Nations Climate Conference (COP28). The focus on carbon trading and emissions reduction underscores the industry's commitment to addressing environmental concerns and promoting a green future for digital assets. As part of this commitment, companies like AYA Platform are exploring ways to contribute to climate financing and support projects that align with environmental goals. The conditional approval from VARA is seen as a positive step towards accelerating AYA Platform's operational setup to deliver impact in the climate finance space. For the full article please visit https://lnkd.in/dDVSwRFS #Dubai #VARA #AYAPlatform #Web3 #ClimateAction #DigitalAssets #Regulation #enjinstarter #ayafoundation #afterburner #web3news #nfts 🌍💻💹

Worldline Expands into the Metaverse with the Launch of Metaverse Shopping Hub 🌐💳 Worldline, the payments services provider, is making significant strides into the metaverse with the launch of the Worldline Metaverse Shopping Hub within the Spatial platform. This upgrade allows online businesses to capitalize on improved graphical quality and accessibility across desktop, mobile, and virtual reality (VR) devices. The move comes in response to McKinsey's projections that the metaverse eCommerce market is set to reach $2.6 trillion by the end of the decade. The Metaverse Shopping Hub is designed to help merchants engage with customers in the virtual realm, acknowledging the transformative influence of gaming on the digital world. The platform introduces new customer engagement methods within Spatial's second season, such as virtual scavenger hunts where users can collect digital items in exchange for community card NFT rewards. Customers can access the metaverse through various devices, including virtual reality headsets and smartphones. Worldline's solution supports 150 payment methods, including digital wallets, mobile payments, cards, and buy now, pay later services. In a strategic move, Worldline's joint venture with the German Savings Banks Association, Payone, will distribute the metaverse solution in Germany and Austria starting in the first quarter of the next year. This expansion follows the launch of the Worldline Metaverse Shopping Mall in Decentraland earlier this year. Worldline is tapping into the metaverse's potential to fuel payment innovation and enhance customer experiences, recognizing it as an evolving commercial channel. For the full article please visit https://lnkd.in/dimmFQJF #Worldline #Metaverse #SpatialPlatform #eCommerce #DigitalPayments #Innovation #CustomerEngagement #web3news #web3 #nfts #enjinstarter #afterburner #ayafoundation 🌍💻💰

FIFA Scores Big with NFT Collection Launch at 2023 Club World Cup ⚽🌐 FIFA, the international governing body for soccer, is set to make history with the launch of its own non-fungible token (NFT) collection in collaboration with blockchain firm Modex. The initiative comes ahead of the 2023 Club World Cup in Saudi Arabia and involves the release of an inaugural collection of 100 NFTs premiering on December 15. These exclusive NFTs offer fans the opportunity to secure tickets to the FIFA World Cup 2026 final. The NFT collection, hosted on FIFA's dedicated platform, FIFA+ Collect, was launched in September 2022 and is powered by the Algorand blockchain. The digital collectibles include 900 items issued on the Polygon network and OpenSea, featuring memorable moments from the tournament and digital versions of valuable memorabilia. With the FIFA Club World Cup featuring seven of the world's top football teams, the NFTs are expected to capture the essence of this prestigious event. Francesco Abbate, CEO of Modex, expressed enthusiasm about supporting FIFA in enhancing fan engagement through digital collectibles, stating, "Digital collectibles increase the ways in which fans can interact with their favorite players, teams, and the game they love." Since its launch, the FIFA+ Collect platform has conducted 11 NFT drops, minting over 909,000 digital collectibles with 16,448 holders. The platform has seen a trading volume of $2.4 million across primary and secondary NFT markets. FIFA+ Collect Info emphasizes the need to interpret mint volume cautiously, considering the distinction between packs obtained for free and those purchased with USDC. As FIFA ventures further into the NFT space, this landmark collection is poised to create a new avenue for soccer enthusiasts to engage with the sport on a digital and collectible level. For the full article please visit https://lnkd.in/dAU7Rv48 #FIFA #NFTCollection #ClubWorldCup #BlockchainInSports #DigitalCollectibles #FIFAPlusCollect #Algorand #Modex #enjinstarter #afterburner #ayafoundation #web3news #nfts #web3 🏆🎮🚀

Anticipating the Future of Web3 Gaming: Insights from Industry Executives 🎮🌐 As Web3 gaming maintains its resilience amidst the crypto bear market, industry leaders are predicting an exciting and transformative year for blockchain gaming in 2024. Henry Chang, CEO of South Korean game development company Wemade, envisions a surge in blockchain-based games with more complex applications of Web3 elements. He notes that as developers gain confidence, there will be increased experimentation, sophisticated use of blockchain in-game mechanics, and a diverse range of Web3 games across genres. Chang highlights the inherent characteristics of blockchain gaming that make it appealing to gaming studios, including new revenue streams, immersive community engagement through token-gated benefits, and returning in-game asset ownership to players. The integration of blockchain connects the real-world economy to games, making them interoperable and forming a cohesive whole. Bartosz Skwarczek, CEO of G2A Capital Group, sees a trend of collaboration between traditional industry players and Web3 startups in 2024. He emphasizes the potential for improved accessibility and user-friendly interfaces to lead to more elaborate game designs and engaging gameplay mechanics, attracting a broader audience to Web3 gaming. Skwarczek suggests that the integration of NFTs for in-game assets and the emergence of a true Triple A-rated Web3 game could redefine blockchain gaming. He believes that such collaborations and advancements will contribute to mainstream adoption. However, onboarding a larger player base remains a significant challenge for blockchain gaming. Chang acknowledges the complexity of blockchain technology for most game designers and developers, posing a hurdle to user understanding. To address this, Chang emphasizes the need to make it easier for developers to integrate Web3 elements into games and to make blockchain components more intuitive and native to the gaming experience. Simplifying these aspects can accelerate the adaptation of Web3 in gaming and broaden its adoption. Skwarczek echoes the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of a groundbreaking Web3 title that sets the standard for blockchain gaming, ultimately capturing attention and driving mass adoption in the gaming community. For the full article please visit https://lnkd.in/gqwQ8XBN #web3news #nftnews #enjinstarter #afterburner #ayafoundation #Web3Gaming #BlockchainGaming #GamingTrends #NFTs #DigitalInnovation #FutureOfGaming 🚀🎮🔗

Landmark VRC Initiative Launched at COP28 to Revolutionize Global Recycling Practices ♻️🌍 In a pivotal move to combat the escalating global waste crisis, an international consortium led by Roland Berger and BEEAH Group, in collaboration with DFINITY Foundation and the International Solid Waste Association (ISWA), has unveiled the Voluntary Recycling Credits (VRC) Initiative at COP28. Announced at the UAE Pavilion, this groundbreaking initiative, supported by the UAE Ministry of Climate Change & Environment and the COP28 Presidency, introduces the world's first global incentive system aimed at offsetting the solid waste footprint. The VRC Initiative addresses the stark reality of an annual production of 17-18 billion tonnes of waste, with only half being properly managed, leading to severe environmental damage. Hani Tohme, managing partner at Roland Berger Middle East, emphasized the initiative's unique approach to bridge market gaps, promoting collaboration between the public and private sectors on a cross-national scale. The proof of concept, successfully demonstrated at COP28, showcases the initiative's potential to transform recycling practices globally. Khaled Al Huraimel, group CEO of BEEAH Group, highlighted the inclusivity of the VRC Initiative, engaging stakeholders from waste collectors to large organizations committed to environmental responsibility. The initiative establishes standardized rules and processes, enabling institutions to compensate their solid waste footprint transparently through a blockchain-based marketplace. DFINITY Foundation's Internet Computer blockchain ensures credibility and scalability, offering a global standard for recycling incentives. The VRC Initiative, set to launch in 2024, marks a significant step toward a sustainable future, actively seeking project investors, ecosystem partners for recycling credit trading, and technology collaborators to expand its impact worldwide. For the full article please visit https://lnkd.in/ei2dRjvs #VRCInitiative #GlobalRecycling #Sustainability #COP28 #Web3Technology #BlockchainInnovation #WasteManagement #ayafoundation #enjinstarter #afterburner 🔄🌐🌱

Casio's VIRTUAL G-SHOCK NFTs Speak to Gen Z Collectors ⌚🚀 In a bold move to connect with a new generation of collectors and consumers, Casio has just unveiled 2,000 limited-edition VIRTUAL G-SHOCK NFTs, marking a significant step into the digital realm. Launched as part of the VIRTUAL G-SHOCK project initiated in September 2023, these NFTs showcase futuristic shock-resistant G-SHOCK structures, embodying innovative design concepts that defy traditional watchmaking boundaries. The virtual watches, known as VGA-001 and VGA-002, each boast distinctive designs. VGA-001 features a balloon-covered G-SHOCK model with a freely moving design, while VGA-002 incorporates a leaf spring concept to powerfully absorb shock. Both designs aim to captivate and resonate with new and existing Gen Z fans of the iconic G-SHOCK brand. Casio has introduced a unique purchasing experience by offering G-SHOCK CREATOR PASS NFTs, providing holders with exclusive perks such as advanced purchasing privileges for securing these limited-edition VIRTUAL G-SHOCK NFTs. This move not only caters to the growing trend of virtual watch NFTs but also signifies a disruption in the traditional watch industry, appealing to fashion-forward consumers and enthusiasts alike. For the full article please visit https://lnkd.in/gtaAvBr8 #Casio #VirtualGShock #NFTs #DigitalCollectibles #InnovationInWatches #GenZCollectors #BlockchainInFashion #FuturisticDesigns #web3news #nftnews #web3 #nft #enjinstarter #ayafoundation #Afterburner 🌐⌚🎨

Ron Faris at Nike Is Running With Web3 🚀👟 Amidst a corporate landscape where many are hesitant about Web3 initiatives, Nike is carving a path forward, showcasing a model for brands to leverage a Web3 backend effectively. Headed by Ron Faris, the visionary leader of Nike Virtual Studios, the sportswear giant has embraced digital and virtual experiences to deepen connections with fans and customers, particularly the ardent community of sneakerheads. In a surprising move, Nike introduced .SWOOSH as its first blockchain-native experiment, stemming from the acquisition of NFT Studio RTFKT in late 2021. Faris aims to democratize co-collaboration and curate communities in innovative ways, steering clear of typical crypto channels. Instead, Nike focused on engaging core sneaker collectors, local athletes, and meetups, introducing .SWOOSH IDs minted through a partnership with Polygon and BitGo. The initiative took flight, with over 370,000 people grabbing .SWOOSH IDs, unlocking a digital treat—Nike's first virtual product drop, Our Force 1. Faris strategically integrated .SWOOSH with mainstream platforms like Fortnite and EA Sports, indicating a step towards mainstream adoption. In a marketing landscape dominated by social media, Nike, under Faris's guidance, is not only creating a digital marketplace for the future but also harmonizing products, experiences, and services to meet consumers where they are. For the full article please visit https://lnkd.in/gQim-S5h #NikeInnovation #Web3Marketing #DigitalExperiences #SWOOSH #RonFaris #NikeVirtualStudios #BlockchainInnovation #FutureMarketing #enjinstarter #afterburner #ayafoundation #web3news #nftnews #web3 #nft 🚀👟

Brazil's Largest Web3 Loyalty Program Pioneered by Moonbeam Network, DUX, and Grupo RÃO. 🌐🚀 In a groundbreaking move, Moonbeam, DUX, and Grupo RÃO have joined forces to embark on one of the most significant Web3 loyalty initiatives to date. This collaboration aims to onboard Grupo RÃO’s impressive user base of approximately 1 million to an advanced digital engagement program. While over 90% of brands employ loyalty programs, consumer loyalty has waned, with 77% retracting brand loyalty faster than three years ago. Despite this, consumers still view loyalty programs as effective for building brand connections. Web3 technology, known for its ability to enhance customer interactions, will play a pivotal role in this partnership. With consumers seeking loyalty programs that offer ease, consistent rewards, and exclusive access, Moonbeam, DUX, and Grupo RÃO are set to strengthen the bond between Brazilian consumers and brands. Grupo RÃO will leverage DUX's smart wallet technology to pioneer new customer engagement methods, marking one of the world's most extensive initiatives of its kind. Henrique Lemos, Founder and CMO of Grupo RÃO, expressed, "The launch of this Web3 loyalty program reflects Grupo RÃO’s long-term vision, and demonstrates our commitment to creating true connections with our customers." Users can anticipate exclusive subscription clubs, novel consumer experiences, and ongoing perks as Grupo RÃO, Moonbeam, and DUX continue to innovate in the loyalty space. For the full article please visit https://lnkd.in/gNuFsibN #Web3 #LoyaltyProgram #DigitalEngagement #BlockchainCommunity #InnovationInTech #GrupoRao #Moonbeam #DUX #BrazilTech #enjinstarter #afterburner #ayafoundation #web3news #nftnews #web3 #nfts 🚀🔗