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Bell Curve

Blockworksblockworks.co
Bell Curve breaks down the most important themes in crypto for people who, like us, are confined to the middle of the bell curve. Each season explores a different thesis that we'll test and refine through debate with crypto's best. If you're a crypto native, degen or investooor, this podcast is for you. Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3R1D1D9 Subscribe on Apple: https://apple.co/3pQTfmD Subscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3cpKZXH Get top market insights and the latest in crypto news. Subscribe to Blockworks Daily Newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/ Join the Bell Curve Telegram group: https://t.me/+nzyxAvQ0Xxc3YTEx
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Episodes

Why Berachain is Becoming a Liquidity Powerhouse | Smokey the Bera

In this episode, we’re joined by Berachain Co-founder Smokey to discuss all things Berachain. We dive into Berachain's dual token model, reflexivity in the Berachain ecosystem, and HONEY’s role on Berachain. We also unpacked the idea of Founder Mode, and Berachain’s BD methods. Finally, we asked Smokey what’s next for Berachain? Thanks for tuning in! -- Aries Markets is the largest lending protocol on Aptos by TVL, and among the top 10 lending protocols across all blockchains! Since launch, Arie...

Feb 21, 20251 hr 5 min

Unichain, Succinct’s Prover Network, and Crypto’s Trust Crisis | Expansion Crossover Roundup

In this week's roundup, the Roundup crew discusses the launch of Unichain, Succinct’s Prover Network testnet, and the economics of being a prover. Additionally, they “A Crisis of Trust”, and how ZKPs can be applied outside of crypto. Finally, they end the episode with discussion on BOLD and fault proofs. Enjoy! -- Resources Succinct’s Prover Network Testnet Announcement: https://x.com/SuccinctLabs/status/1888999158541087134 A Crisis of Trust: https://x.com/SuccinctLabs/status/1889749373854294295...

Feb 14, 20251 hr 12 min

The Evolution of Crypto Exchanges | Austin Adams & Jesse Walden

In this episode, we’re joined by Jesse Walden and Austin Adams to discuss the DEX landscape today, vertical integration in DeFi, and DEX market share growth. We also dove into Doppler’s design, and why it’s being launched as a Uniswap v4 hook. Finally, we talked about Pure Markets, DEX design trends, and progressive decentralization. Thanks for tuning in! Resources Doppler Announcement: https://x.com/AustinAdams10/status/1889362777791168877 -- Ledger, the global leader in digital asset security,...

Feb 12, 20251 hr 11 min

Lido v3 Deep Dive | Hasu & Konstantin

In this episode, we’re joined by Konstatin Lomashuk and Hasu to discuss Lido v3! We covered liquid staking today, Lido v3’s marketplace model, and the fungibility of stETH. We also unpacked what institutional stakers need, and how Lido v3 makes it possible. Finally, we discussed how Lido is approaching BD, and structured products. Thanks for tuning in! -- Resources Lido v3 Announcement: https://x.com/LidoFinance/status/1889335909834797458 The State of Liquid Staking, GOOSE-2, and Lido v3: https:...

Feb 11, 20251 hr 6 min

Market Volatility, Stablecoin Regulation, and Saylor’s Next Move | Roundup

In this episode, Mippo and Vance discuss the recent market volatility, the Sky ecosystem, and MicroStrategy’s rebrand. They also discuss crypto onboarding, the launch of Berachain, and Tether’s dominance in the stablecoin sector. Thanks for tuning in! -- Resources Sky Ecosystem Dashboard: https://info.sky.money/ DeFi Yield Sources with Guy Young & Sam MacPherson: https://youtu.be/fVCvqZxdmik Martin Carrica on Hagerty stablecoin bill: https://x.com/mcarrica/status/1886925176488567081 -- Aries...

Feb 08, 20251 hr 4 min

Trading Crypto's Weekend Meltdown | 1000x

This week, we discuss crypto's liquidation event over the weekend and how to trade the upcoming week. We deep dive into the weak performance of altcoins, Bitcoin's role in a multipolar world, shorting in this market environment & more. Enjoy! -- Go follow the new 1000x feed to keep up to date with all new episodes! Spotify: https://blckwrks.co/3WADHnL Apple: https://blckwrks.co/4aEt5u0 -- Follow Avi: https://twitter.com/AviFelman Follow Jonah: https://twitter.com/jvb_xyz Follow 1000x: https:...

Feb 04, 20251 hr

The PumpFun Episode | Austin, Jim & Myles

In this episode, we’re joined by Austin Adams, Jim Parillo, and Myles O’Neil to discuss PumpFun, the enduring memecoin phenomenon, and DEX models! They also cover capital formation, publisher exchanges, and deriving value for content creators. Thanks for tuning in! -- Resources Bell Curve Season 6: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6TA5PBj6svs5C6FtG4VMUG7dKmIv0TSN&feature=shared The Solana Thesis: Internet Capital Markets - https://multicoin.capital/2025/01/22/the-solana-thesis-internet-ca...

Feb 04, 20251 hr 11 min

DeepSeek’s Impact, the JellyJelly Launch, and Crypto Payments | Roundup

In this episode, Michael and Mippo discuss DeepSeek’s impact on the markets, the crypto x AI narrative, and the dispersion of returns in this cycle. They also discuss DEX market share growth, and the launch of the JellyJelly token. Finally, they end the episode by giving their thoughts on Jerome Powell’s recent comments, and how banks are positioned to give loans against crypto. Thanks for tuning in! -- Resources Vance on “Startup Tokens”: https://x.com/pythianism/status/1884810399750484184?s=46...

Jan 31, 20251 hr 6 min

Deep Dive: DeFi Yield Sources | Guy & Sam

In this episode, Guy Young and Sam MacPherson joined us to discuss the sources of yield in DeFi! We covered the current yield sources today, how these change across cycles, and the growth of RWAs. Additionally, we unpacked the stablecoin market today, the market share of yield-bearing stablecoins, and the relationship between Ethena and Spark. Finally, we discussed American DeFi, and Ethena’s roadmap. Thanks for tuning in! -- Ledger, the global leader in digital asset security, proudly sponsors ...

Jan 28, 20251 hr 3 min

Crypto's Speculative Phase & Ethereum's Mass Reform | Expansion Crossover Roundup

This week's roundup covers Trump token phenomenon and its implications for blockchain infrastructure, including analysis of Solana's performance under stress and its competition with Ethereum's rollup ecosystem. We then explore Ethereum Foundation's cultural challenges and potential reforms, including the possibility of a second foundation. To close out we examine new Layer 1 developments emerging from the Solana ecosystem and debate the future of blockchain architecture. -- Aries Markets is the...

Jan 24, 20251 hr 23 min

Go-To-Market Strategies in Crypto | Jim & Myles

In this episode, Jim Parillo from Figment Capital, and Myles O’Neil from Delta, joined us to discuss positioning your product for success in crypto. We dive into the relative valuation game, the impact of token economics, and incentivization of users. Additionally, we unpack the phases of growth seen along the way, and identifying your users at each phase. Finally, we reflect on lessons learned from the founders that paved the way. Thanks for tuning in! -- Ledger, the global leader in digital as...

Jan 21, 20251 hr 20 min

Inflation Fears, Four Year Cycles, and Berachain | Roundup

In this episode, we discuss Trumps’ “Crypto Ball”, the Bitcoin strategic reserve, and inflation fears. We also cover the idea of four year cycles in crypto, and why they might not continue. Additionally, we unpack Berachain’s “Proof of Liquidity” mechanism. Finally, we close the episode with discussion on Ethereum’s staking decline. Thanks for tuning in! -- Resources Joseph Wang on Tariffs: https://x.com/FedGuy12/status/1873754052573753394 The PoL Post: https://blog.berachain.com/blog/the-pol-po...

Jan 17, 20251 hr 1 min

A Crypto Native Financial System | Felipe Montealegre

In this episode, we’re joined by Felipe from Theia to discuss his recent thesis piece, “Internet Finance”. We cover his thoughts on global property rights, and how crypto rails can truly make capital a globally competitive market. Additionally, we discuss fundamental based investing, returning capital to token holders, and developing a moat in crypto. Finally, we discuss dead capital in DeFi. Thanks for tuning in! -- Resources Internet Finance by Felipe: https://x.com/TheiaResearch/status/187661...

Jan 14, 20251 hr 15 min

Trump’s First 100 Days, and AI’s Influence on the Markets | Roundup

In this episode, we discuss the Palisades Fire, macro uncertainty, and Trump’s first 100 days in office. We also dive into AI’s influence on the markets, new developer talent entering the space over time, and the philosophical differences between Ethereum and Solana. Finally, we end the episode with discussion on Robinhood’s involvement in crypto, and how Ethena has rapidly grown. Thanks for tuning in! -- Uniswap Labs is running a $15.5 million bug bounty for critical bugs found in Uniswap v4, t...

Jan 10, 202559 min

The State of Liquid Staking, GOOSE-2, and Lido v3 | Hasu

In this episode, Hasu joined us to discuss the state of liquid staking today, Ethereum’s issuance debate, and Ethereum’s North Star. We also unpacked Hasu’s GOOSE-2 submission, and all that it would entail. Finally, Hasu left us with some teasers for Lido v3! Thanks for tuning in! -- Resources Is Liquid Staking Winner Take All? https://youtu.be/8V55eQOG2L8?feature=shared Unlocking Institutional Ethereum Staking: https://app.blockworksresearch.com/research/unlocking-institutional-ethereum-staking...

Dec 27, 20241 hr 45 min

Our 2025 Crypto Predictions | Roundup

In this episode, Michael, Vance, and Mippo discuss their 2025 predictions! They cover their macro outlook, and crypto specific predictions for next year. They also ask themselves - Will the L1 trade ever die? Will ICOs return? Are crypto founders returning to America? Thanks for tuning in! Resources 2024 Predictions Episode: https://youtu.be/6V0hWs_CCFg?feature=shared 2025 Predictions: https://x.com/pythianism/status/1869522809212543204 Steakhouse Financial’s Thoughts on the Polygon Bridge Drama...

Dec 20, 20241 hr 13 min

Morpho: Ushering in DeFi’s Next Era | Paul Frambot

In this episode, Paul Frambot, Co-founder and CEO of Morpho Labs, joined us to discuss the history of Morpho, TAM and network effects for primitive protocols, and what Morpho does today. Additionally, he gave his thoughts why a simple codebase is important, and how TradFi distribution will come onchain. Finally, we unpacked the recent trends in DeFi, importing yield, and institutional adoption of crypto. Thanks for tuning in! -- Uniswap Labs is running a $15.5 million bug bounty for critical bug...

Dec 17, 20241 hr 2 min

The Attention Economy, Hyperliquid’s Success, and New Asset Classes | Roundup

In this episode, Mike Ippolito and Michael Anderson reflect on some of their 2024 predictions, discuss the attention economy and memecoin activity, and Hyperliquid’s success. They also dive into blockchain business models, and where activity should be across the Ethereum ecosystem. Finally, they give their thoughts on whether or not this cycle has been muted compared to past cycles. Thanks for tuning in! -- Uniswap Labs is running a $15.5 million bug bounty for critical bugs found in Uniswap v4,...

Dec 13, 20241 hr 3 min

Commonware: Building the Anti-Framework | Patrick O’Grady

In this episode, we’re joined by Patrick O’Grady, Founder of Commonware! We discussed what inspired Commonware, what Commonware aims to solve, and the flexibility it offers to developers. Additionally, we unpacked Patrick’s time at Ava Labs, and the tech stack that Avalanche has built. Finally, we covered how crypto will move past the “TPS Era” and infighting about infrastructure. Thanks for tuning in! Resources Unveiling Commonware: https://x.com/_patrickogrady/status/1866866850107363582 Common...

Dec 11, 20241 hr 12 min

$100k Bitcoin, Hyperliquid’s Airdrop, and Altcoin Cycles | Roundup

In this episode, the Roundup crew discussed the resurgence of Dinocoins, Altcoin cycles, $100k Bitcoin, and the current outlook for Ethereum. They also dove into the background of Trump’s pick to lead the SEC, Paul Atkins, and the impact he might have on the crypto industry. Finally, they ended the episode by giving their thoughts on Hyperliquid, and narrative progression within cycles. Thanks for tuning in! -- Uniswap Labs is running a $15.5 million bug bounty for critical bugs found in Uniswap...

Dec 06, 202448 min

Scaling Ethereum With Based Rollups | mteam

In this episode, mteam from Spire Labs joined us to discuss Based Rollups, ETH value accrual, and the current state of Ethereum. We also covered designing Based Rollups, their value proposition, and Ethereum’s Rollup centric roadmap. Mteam also gave his thoughts on what Ethereum should prioritize moving forward. Finally, we ended the episode with discussion on network effects, Multiple Concurrent Proposers, moving activity back to the Ethereum L1, and blockchain design convergence. Thanks for tu...

Dec 03, 20241 hr 20 min

Alt Season, Decentralized AI’s Evolution, and Institutional Interest | Roundup

In this episode, we discussed increased retail activity, the evolution of the AI meta, and crypto regulatory reform. Additionally, we covered the deployment of USDS on Solana, and the recent news from Coinbase Wallet: USDC holders will now earn yield. Finally, we speculated on whether or not there will be an alt season, and institutional interest in crypto post-election. Thanks for tuning in! – Follow Mike: https://twitter.com/MikeIppolito_ Follow Michael: https://twitter.com/im_manderson Follow...

Nov 22, 20241 hr 4 min

EVM vs SVM Tradeoffs, Ethereum Alignment, and App Specific Sequencing | Alex Watts

In this episode, Alex Watts, the Co-Founder and CEO of FastLane Labs, joined us to discuss dealing with MEV, Application Specific Sequencing, and the EVM vs the SVM. Additionally, we asked Alex: is application specific sequencing possible on Solana? Where does Monad fit into things? We closed the episode out with our thoughts on alignment, the rollup landscape, and single slot finality. Thanks for tuning in! -- Fuel Ignition launches as a high-performance Ethereum L2, running on consumer hardwar...

Nov 19, 20241 hr 23 min

Solving Ethereum’s UX Challenges | Hart & Dan

In this episode, Hart Lambur and Dan Robinson joined us to discuss interoperability across the Ethereum ecosystem! We dove into ERC-7683, EIP-7702, and Unichain’s future. We also unpacked the process behind creating new standards for Ethereum. Finally, we discussed the crossovers between the solver and searcher markets. Thanks for tuning in! -- Resources Uniswap x Across Protocol: https://x.com/Uniswap/status/1849104961335972078 ERC-7683: https://across.to/blog/ERC-7683-Building-a-Borderless-Eth...

Nov 15, 202452 min

Unichain and MEV On L2s | Hasu & Hayden

In this episode, Hayden Adams and Hasu joined us to discuss Ethereum’s rollup centric roadmap, and the vision for Unichain. We also dove into priority ordering, MEV taxes, and LP arbitrage. Finally, we ended the episode by unpacking MEV on L2s vs mainnet, TEEs, and potential cons of Ethereum’s rollup centric roadmap. Thanks for tuning in! -- Resources Priority Is All You Need: https://www.paradigm.xyz/2024/06/priority-is-all-you-need Unichain White Paper: https://docs.unichain.org/whitepaper.pdf...

Nov 12, 20241 hr 35 min

The Golden Bull Is Here | Roundup

In this episode, the Roundup crew discusses the outcome of the presidential election and its impact on DeFi, crypto’s new regulatory environment, and the positive signs for continued DeFi growth. Additionally, the dive into Polymarket’s success leading up to, and on election day, and their outlook on Polymarket going forward. Finally, they give their thoughts on futarchy and DAO organizational structures. Thanks for tuning in! -- Index Coop's Leverage Suite provides streamlined access to leverag...

Nov 08, 202447 min

Unlocking Undercollateralized Lending | Laurence Day

In this episode, we’re joined by Laurence Day, Co-founder of Wildcat Finance! We discussed undercollateralized lending and RWAs in DeFi, the impacts of capital efficiency and liquidity fragmentation on lending markets, and how privacy comes into play. Finally, we unpacked the primary use cases for Wildcat. Thanks for tuning in! -- Resources Bell Curve Season 1 - The DeFi Credit Boom: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6TA5PBj6svssNaiKjT6TykX56LikLZ-P&feature=shared -- Index Coop's Leverage ...

Nov 05, 20241 hr 23 min

Coinbase Earnings, Jito Restaking, Memecoin Durability, and Saylor’s Big Announcement | Roundup

In this episode, Michael, Vance, and Mike Ippolito sit down to discuss everything happening in crypto leading up to the election! They dive into Jito Restaking and the synergies across Jito’s product suite, the relationship between Raydium and Pumpfun, and Coinbase’s recent earnings report. Thanks for tuning in! -- Resources Jito Restaking Caps Hit: https://x.com/jito_sol/status/1852018955990278518 Michael Saylor Announces $42B Capital Plan: https://x.com/saylor/status/1851718391889043954 -- Ind...

Nov 01, 202450 min

Multiple Concurrent Proposers on Solana and Ethereum | Anatoly & Max

In this episode, Anatoly Yakovenko and Max Resnick joined us to discuss the concept of Multiple Concurrent Proposers! We unpacked the Proposer Monopoly, implementing MCP, and ordering rules. Additionally, we covered the geographic distribution of proposers, and MCP design tradeoffs. Finally, we asked what is the biggest competitive threat to Ethereum, Solana or its own L2s? Thanks for tuning in! -- Resources Braid: Implementing Multiple Concurrent Block Proposers: https://x.com/danrobinson/statu...

Oct 29, 20241 hr 18 min

AI Memes on the Rise, Stripe’s Major Acquisition, and Kraken’s New L2 | Roundup

In this episode, Michael, Vance, and Mippo discuss Sky’s potential reversion back to Maker branding, Stripe’s acquisition of Bridge and its implications for the broader stablecoin sector, and Jito’s recent governance proposal introducing rake on MEV tips. Finally, they dive into the sudden rise of AI memes, zkTLS and DECO, and Kraken’s announcement of their upcoming L2, Ink. Thanks for tuning in! -- Resources JIP-8 Adopt TipRouter: https://forum.jito.network/t/jip-8-adopt-tiprouter-ncn-protocol-...

Oct 26, 20241 hr 8 min
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