Brian Kelly: ICOs Here to Stay 5254

In a recent interview with Cointelegraph, Brian Kelly, the founder and CEO of digital currency investment firm BKCM LLC, said that Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) are around to stay, but with some changes. Kelly, who is also a crypto analyst and regular contributor to CNBC, sat down with Cointelegraph to discuss various aspects of the crypto industry. Kelly stated that he sees blockchain and cryptocurrencies as “early stage technology,” saying as example that Amazon founder Jeff Bezos probably could not imagine his online bookstore turning into a major video streaming platform. He added:

“We have a new technology that disintermediates a lot of industries. That’s important, and that’s going to be something that’s here for the rest of my career at least and likely a lot longer than that.”

Speaking on whether ICOs as a form of fundraising will end soon, Kelly suggested that “it will stay, but with a little change.” He said that ICOs proved to be an effective tool for funding projects using cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology. However, he added that “the days of a whitepaper and a dream and $30 million are probably over.”

Kelly said that when choosing which digital currencies to invest in, there is a combination of positive indicators, such as activities that will increase the network, as well as catalysts like conferences or potential software updates.

Last month, Thomas Zeeb, CEO of securities services at Switzerland’s top stock exchange SIX, also said that ICOs are “here to stay.” Zeeb predicted that mass adoption would come in around five years.

The ICO market has seen positive growth this year, more than doubling since 2017, according to ICORating’s ICO market report for the the second quarter of 2018. Per the report, in Q2 2018, 827 projects raised over $8 billion in funding, compared to $3.3 billion in Q1 2018, representing a 151 percent increase. The report notes a “continued decline in the number of retail investors,” while institutional capital in ICO markets has increased.

Mr. Kelly will be speaking at the Crypto Finance Conference at the Ritz-Carlton in Half Moon Bay, CA, which runs from September 5-7.

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StepMania Launches on Telegram: A Gamified Step-Challenge Experience for Everyone 2604

5 2 2025 1

Combining activity tracking, engaging challenges, and Web3 rewards, StepMania motivates users to turn their steps into in-game benefits and rewards.

5th February 2025, British Virgin Islands – StepMania is a gamified activity-tracking app built to inspire daily movement and reward users for staying active. Accessible through Telegram’s MiniApp ecosystem, StepMania turns steps into in-game rewards, fostering healthier habits through leaderboards, squad challenges, and exciting in-game rewards. With a focus on integrating online and offline activity, StepMania creates a unique way for users to stay connected, motivated, and rewarded.

Backed by The Open Platform (TOP), the largest venture builder in TON’s ecosystem, StepMania is a groundbreaking addition to TOP’s portfolio. By bridging online and offline engagement, StepMania exemplifies a vision of empowering innovative products that merge real-world activities with digital ecosystems.

What Makes StepMania Different?

Unlike other step challenge platforms such as STEPN, which often require users to purchase expensive NFTs or navigate complex Web3 processes, StepMania eliminates these barriers. By seamlessly connecting to popular health tracking tools like Apple Health and Google Health Connect, StepMania makes it easy for anyone with a smartphone to start earning in-game rewards. With a focus on social engagement through leaderboards, squad challenges, and influencer-hosted tournaments, StepMania creates a fun and inclusive experience for users of all levels—from casual walkers to Web3 enthusiasts.

Why Telegram?

StepMania is built for Telegram, one of the world’s largest messaging platforms with nearly 1 billion users. By tapping into Telegram’s MiniApp ecosystem, StepMania offers a frictionless experience where users can access activity tracking, leaderboards, and in-game rewards without downloading additional apps. Telegram’s built-in social features also enhance engagement, allowing users to compete with friends, participate in challenges, and share their achievements—all within the same app.

StepMania and the TON Ecosystem

StepMania serves as a gateway to TON’s growing ecosystem by introducing users to blockchain-based in-game rewards through everyday activities. The app enables TON-based projects to engage with highly active audiences by sharing activities and in-game rewards.As StepMania grows its app audience, the aim is to create opportunities for further partnerships, adoption, and innovation.

With StepMania, users can:

  • Earn Rewards: Convert steps into in-game rewards and unlock exciting features.
  • Compete with Friends: Climb leaderboards, join squad battles, and participate in influencer-hosted tournaments.
  • Stay Engaged: Participate in competitions featuring in-game rewards and exclusive in-app features.
  • Discover Web3: Explore partnerships with TON-based projects and benefit from additional features and partnerships from the broader ecosystem.

“At StepMania, our mission is to inspire people to lead more active lives by turning everyday steps into something meaningful. We believe that every movement counts, and through engaging product mechanics, we’re motivating users to connect their offline efforts with in-game rewards. StepMania isn’t just a step-challenge app—it’s a movement to make activity more rewarding and accessible for everyone.”

In the coming months, StepMania will continue its expansion by collaborating with various TON-based projects and exploring partnerships with brands, events, and wearable companies. These efforts will enhance the platform’s value, introducing new ways for users to benefit from various exciting features and engage with a growing activity-driven community.

Join the movement and start stepping with StepMania. Visit https://t.me/Step_mania_bot/app to get started or follow us on Twitter and visit our website for the latest updates.

About StepMania

StepMania is an activity-tracking app that combines gamification, in-game rewards, and blockchain technology to motivate users to stay active. StepMania aims to create a seamless connection between offline activity and digital rewards, making it an exciting addition to TON ecosystem.

Website | Telegram Mini App | Telegram | X

Cainam Ventures Unveils Revolutionary AI-Powered Trading Technology 4121

Cainam Ventures, a financial technology startup, is launching a groundbreaking platform that redefines autonomous digital asset trading. Guided by its mission to pioneer the onramp to agentic financial portfolio construction for digital capital investors, Cainam leverages artificial intelligence (AI), large language models (LLMs), and advanced data analytics to accelerate and optimize portfolio management strategies.

Addressing a key challenge in digital asset management, Cainam recognizes that human energy alone cannot consistently pick digital asset winners at the speed and scale AI offers. The company’s solution is a user-friendly agentic trading platform that empowers investors to capitalize on market opportunities with unprecedented precision and efficiency.

Cainam’s innovative agentic trading technology has already delivered impressive results. It seamlessly integrates with leading Web3 infrastructures, digital exchanges, and social media ecosystems to provide real-time market insights and actionable trade execution. Recent platform testing showcased its capability to transform financial technology, capturing significant attention and expediting investor timelines.

Two cornerstone offerings are central to Cainam’s technology: the Agentic Workforce, which comprises autonomous research analysts and trading agents who deliver real-time investment strategies and execute trades with precision, and the Agentic Trading Terminal, a comprehensive tool that provides personalized data research, actionable trade execution, and dynamic portfolio balancing to ensure optimal asset distributions.

These capabilities give investors a decisive edge in managing their digital assets, with proprietary workflows and algorithms ensuring unmatched speed, accuracy, and adaptability in processing structured and unstructured data sources.

To support its growth, Cainam is increasing its development team to meet the needs of a rapidly growing market. With a robust digital presence, including an active Twitter following, a new LinkedIn page, and a recently launched website, Cainam is engaging its audience through live discussions and teasers to build momentum ahead of its official launch.

“Our mission is to empower investors with seamless access to the future of digital asset trading,” said Matt Gunnin, Chief Technology Officer of Cainam Ventures. “By leveraging AI, LLMs, and data analytics, we provide a transformative platform that redefines what’s possible in the digital asset space. This launch marks a significant milestone, and we’re thrilled to offer unparalleled value to our users.”

Cainam’s platform officially launches tomorrow, Thursday, January 23, 2025, following an enthusiastic response to social media teasers on X @cainamventures that generated significant buzz. The launch activities highlight the platform’s groundbreaking technology, engage early adopters, and set the stage for continued growth and innovation.

For more information, visit www.cainamventures.com.

About Cainam Ventures

Cainam Ventures is a financial technology company redefining autonomous digital asset trading. By leveraging advanced artificial intelligence (AI), large language models (LLMs), and best-in-class data analytics, Cainam empowers investors to optimize portfolio management strategies and capitalize on market opportunities. The company’s proprietary technology integrates seamlessly across leading Web3 infrastructures and digital exchanges, providing real-time market insights, automated trade execution, and dynamic portfolio balancing. Guided by a commitment to innovation and efficiency, Cainam Ventures is pioneering the onramp to agentic financial portfolio construction for digital capital investors, solving the challenges of scale and precision in the modern financial landscape.

Freename Launches .etherlink Domain for Next-Gen Web3 Identity 4456

Freename, the leading multi-chain Web3 namespace platform, has integrated with Etherlink, a Layer 2 blockchain powered by Tezos Smart Rollups, to launch the new top-level domain “.etherlink”. The launch marks an important step in expanding blockchain domain adoption, enabling users to easily create Web3 identities and manage digital assets. To celebrate the launch, every user can use the coupon code ETHERLINK10 to purchase .etherlink domains or apply it as a discount for premium domains during the first three months of the promotion.

The .etherlink domain will serve as a cornerstone for digital identity management on Etherlink’s Layer 2 blockchain, empowering both Web2 and Web3 users to secure their digital presence through blockchain technology while maintaining traditional domain functionality.

Etherlink is a permissionless Layer 2 blockchain that inherits the security of the Tezos Layer 1, and features a decentralized governance model, fraud proofs, and censorship resistance. With today’s launch, Freename, as a multichain Web3 namespace and ICANN-accredited registrar, is also leveraging Etherlink to bridge Web2 and Web3, enabling Web2 domains to be tokenized and secured on the Etherlink network alongside other major blockchains. This ensures brand protection and domain security for Web2 businesses while seamlessly integrating them into a multi-chain ecosystem. Users can simply mint domains directly on the Etherlink network and manage them alongside traditional Web2 domains, supporting over 50 blockchain networks.

“On-chain users need tailored solutions for digital identity. In a multi-chain world, interoperability is essential. With the Etherlink integration and .etherlink TLD launch, we’re enabling the Etherlink and Tezos communities to secure dynamic identities that evolve with their Web3 journey.” Said Gherardo Varani, Head of BD at Freename. “The .etherlink TLD and our ability to tokenize Web2 domains on-chain will redefine brand protection and domain ownership, offering users the best of both worlds.”

The platform leverages Etherlink’s breakthrough transaction costs of $0.001, offering users an affordable and scalable way to interact with the blockchain and DNS. Through integration with Tezos Smart Rollups, users benefit from enhanced security and cross-chain compatibility with other major EVM networks. Etherlink’s architecture ensures unparalleled security and decentralization by eliminating centralized bridges and administrative keys, making it a highly reliable and censorship-resistant platform for blockchain-based operations.

Impact on the Etherlink Ecosystem

“Domains are the foundation of digital identity, and with Freename’s integration, we’re transforming how the Etherlink community connects and transacts,” said Cédric Roche, Business Development & Technical Support Director at Nomadic Labs, a Tezos R&D Hub in Paris. “This is about more than just replacing wallet addresses – it’s about building a more intuitive and accessible Web3 where traditional businesses and crypto-native users can seamlessly interact.”

This integration marks a significant milestone for the growing Etherlink ecosystem and comes at a busy period for the Tezos ecosystem, following the recent launch of the uranium.io marketplace on Etherlink and the unveiling of the Tezos X roadmap in mid-2024. The .etherlink domain provides native Web3 identities for decentralized applications, smart contracts, and community members within the Etherlink network. Community members can now create memorable addresses for their wallets, replacing complex hexadecimal strings with human-readable names.

The domains also enable Etherlink projects to establish branded Web3 presences, fostering trust and recognition within the ecosystem. With Freename’s DNS technology, Etherlink users can seamlessly bridge their Web2 and Web3 identities, opening new possibilities for decentralized applications and services. Freename’s partnership with Etherlink exemplifies its commitment to supporting the integration of Web2 and Web3 technologies, empowering users with a secure, scalable, and decentralized domain ecosystem.

About Freename

Freename is the leading multi-chain Web3 namespace platform and ICANN-Accredited Registrar, enabling users to mint and manage domains and TLDs across major blockchain networks. Freename bridges Web2 and Web3 DNS, providing innovative tools for domain security, brand protection, and decentralized ownership.

About Etherlink

Etherlink is an EVM-compatible, non-custodial Layer 2 blockchain powered by Tezos Smart Rollups. Known for its ultra-low transaction costs, robust security, and decentralized governance, Etherlink is setting new standards for Layer 2 blockchain technology.

Vottun Brings Tokenization to Web3 Development; Launches Flagship Low-Code Platform for Builders 4911

As an EU-licensed service provider, Vottun’s latest push for blockchain innovation through a ‘Code-to-Earn’ model is aimed at onboarding the next million developers to Web3
Backed by Draper, Macclin Capital, and Nebula Ventures among others, Vottun expects to significantly ramp up its developer count from 3,000 to 20,000, with a special focus on attracting talent from emerging economies

Vottun, a multi-chain developer platform, has announced the launch of its tokenized ‘code-to-earn’ platform aimed at empowering the next million Web3 developers to effortlessly build next-generation dApps. By eliminating the need for blockchain expertise and incentivizing innovation, Vottun aims to encourage greater participation globally and create a more level playing ground for developers to create dApps, tokens, and DeFi tools while earning rewards for their work.

As a developer-first platform, Vottun is especially focused on attracting developers from emerging economies, providing them with an accessible and rewarding pathway into the Web3 ecosystem. Developers can select from custom templates designed for blockchain projects, or start from scratch using dynamic APIs, and build dApps with limited to no exposure to development. Additionally, Vottun welcomes crypto enthusiasts without development skills to actively engage and participate in new projects, fostering a vibrant ecosystem of collaboration and creativity. With a thriving community of over 50,000 members actively participating in airdrops, challenges, and other fun and engaging activities, developers can launch their ventures with the support of a passionate and dynamic network. In short, allowing entrepreneurs to focus on creating business value from Web3.

“Growing the Web3 ecosystem requires a solid backbone of developers, whose ideas can be easily transformed into working systems,” said Luis Carbajo, CEO & Co-Founder of Vottun. “By breaking down barriers in Web3 development and incentivising efforts toward product development, we aim to encourage the next million Web2 developers to launch innovative dApps and thus drive greater adoption of blockchain use cases globally.”

Vottun’s multi-chain approach integrates seamlessly with leading blockchain networks and partners, including DEXTools, Fireblocks, Circle, and Certik, ensuring robust support for developers and enterprises. With its comprehensive tech stack for multi-chain interoperability and an EU-licensed service provider, Vottun aims to offer the right infrastructure and support to unlock untapped potential and eventually diversify blockchain development globally. The company presently boasts of a 3,000-strong developer community with a goal of onboarding over 20,000 in the next 12 months, a feat that will see it double the total number of all developers currently active in Web3.

Private LCO on PAID

Vottun is slated to hold its Private LCO from January 21st-22nd on the PAID launchpad, as it prepares for its much anticipated TGE later this quarter. Already a partner to retail users and enterprises globally, Vottun was recently in the news for its collaboration with Arbitrum to advance blockchain scalability and interoperability. The company’s client roster includes some of the world’s top brands, including Nestle, PwC, The World Bank, and Chupa Chups, among others.

Developers and blockchain enthusiasts are invited to explore Vottun’s platform and become part of its growing community at www.vottun.com/.

About Vottun

Vottun is a blockchain innovation company focusing on enhancing the Developer Ecosystem by providing developers with everything they need to build, scale, and launch cross-chain dApps. The company’s mission is to support developers transitioning from working in the world of web2 — from those with no prior blockchain programming experience to web3 enthusiasts — by giving them cutting-edge tools to begin building dApps, Tokens, Marketplaces, and DeFi projects, to create valuable new business models, processes and services in web3.

Botify: Emerging as the Shopify of Crypto 5175

In just six days, Botify has emerged as a disruptive force in the blockchain and AI space, growing from a modest $300k market cap to an astonishing 86x at $26M. This rapid growth cements Botify as one of the most promising crypto projects today, drawing comparisons to Shopify and its game-changing impact on e-commerce.

What is Botify?

Botify is redefining automation with a no-code platform that allows users to easily create, deploy, and monetise AI-driven bots. Whether managing social media, automating trading strategies, or running business operations, Botify’s platform empowers users to integrate AI agents into their workflows without any coding knowledge. It’s more than just a bot platform—it’s an ecosystem for innovation and profitability.

Key highlights of the project include:

  • AI Agents Building AI Agents: Botify introduces self-evolving AI agents capable of identifying trends, conceptualising new bots, and autonomously deploying them.
  • Revenue Sharing for $BOTIFY Holders: A sustainable model where every transaction on the platform rewards $BOTIFY holders, creating an ongoing passive income stream.
  • Tokenized Bot Marketplace: Users can list their bots on the marketplace, where others can purchase or deploy them, driving continuous adoption.
  • Integration with Blockchain: By merging AI with blockchain, Botify offers unparalleled transparency, security, and efficiency.

Drawing Parallels: Shopify vs. Botify

Shopify transformed the e-commerce landscape by providing a simple, accessible platform for businesses to launch online stores. Similarly, Botify is revolutionising crypto by enabling anyone—regardless of technical expertise—to create and deploy AI-driven bots.

Shopify’s Market Cap: Currently, Shopify holds a market cap of approximately $75 billion, proving the immense value of simplifying a complex industry.

Botify’s Market Cap: At $26M, Botify is just getting started but showcases massive potential for exponential growth.

The Growth Potential

With the no-code market projected to grow from $50 billion in 2025 to over $187 billion by 2030, Botify is strategically positioned to capture significant market share. By merging AI-driven automation with blockchain technology, Botify opens doors for both crypto enthusiasts and traditional businesses to embrace automation.

This growth trajectory isn’t speculative—it’s already happening. The project’s 86x performance in under a week demonstrates the appetite for tools that simplify AI and blockchain adoption. With future innovations like physical AI integration, tokenized bot launches, and a global business SaaS model, Botify is set to disrupt industries far beyond crypto.

Why Botify is the Future

Botify isn’t just following trends—it’s setting them. By positioning itself as the Shopify of AI and blockchain, the project aims to become the go-to solution for businesses, developers, and crypto users looking to automate processes, innovate, and scale. With a strong foundation and an ambitious roadmap, Botify has the potential to be a $1 billion+ market leader in the coming years.

For those looking to invest in the future of automation, Botify offers a chance to participate in a revolution that is just beginning.

Website – www.botify.cloud/
X – x.com/Botifydotcloud
Gitbook – botify-cloud.gitbook.io/whitepaper
Telegram – t.me/botifycloud

Discover the Future of Trading with PTFXTrader 5990

 

PTFXTrader

Let’s face it: trading can feel like stepping into a world of endless graphs, confusing jargon, and high-stakes decisions. If you’ve ever thought, “How do people even make sense of all this?” you’re not alone. That’s why PTFXTrader is such a game-changer. It takes the complexity out of trading and replaces it with simplicity, trust, and results. And honestly? That’s exactly what we all need.

What is PTFXTrader, and Why Should You Care?

In a nutshell, PTFXTrader is your go-to platform for forex trading. It’s designed for everyone-whether you’re a seasoned investor or just starting out. What makes it different? It’s not just about giving you tools and leaving you to figure it out. Instead, PTFXTrader focuses on creating an environment where you can learn, grow, and succeed.

Imagine having a platform that feels like it “gets” you—a place where the user interface doesn’t look like something from a sci-fi movie, and where the support team actually cares about your progress. That’s PTFXTrader.

Why PTFXTrader Stands Out  

Let’s break it down. What sets PTFXTrader apart from the countless trading platforms out there? Here are a few reasons:

1. User-Friendly Interface

Nobody wants to spend hours figuring out how to use a platform. With PTFXTrader, everything is intuitive. You log in, and everything you need is right there—from market updates to your trading portfolio. It’s as if they designed it with you in mind.

2. Professional Expertise at Your Fingertips

Trading can feel like a solo journey, but it doesn’t have to be. PTFXTrader connects you with experts who provide real-time guidance. Whether you’re wondering about market trends or need advice on your next move, there’s always someone there to help. And honestly? That kind of support is priceless.

3. Transparency and Trust

In a world where hidden fees and fine print are the norm, PTFXTrader flips the script. What you see is what you get. No surprises, no shady practices. Just straightforward trading that lets you focus on what matters: growing your portfolio.

PTFXTrader

Who Is PTFXTrader For?  

Let’s get real for a moment. Trading isn’t just for financial experts or people with a Wall Street address. It’s for anyone who wants to take control of their financial future.

Are you a busy professional with limited time but big dreams? PTFXTrader fits seamlessly into your schedule. Or maybe you’re a curious beginner who’s eager to learn the ropes. This platform gives you the tools to succeed without overwhelming you. And if you’re a seasoned trader looking for a reliable partner? Well, you’ve just found it.

The Experience: What It Feels Like to Trade with PTFXTrader 

Okay, let’s talk about the actual experience. Imagine this: You wake up, grab your morning coffee, and open the PTFXTrader app. Within seconds, you’re caught up on market trends and ready to make informed decisions. The platform is fast, intuitive, and-dare I say it? – a little fun to use.

There’s a sense of empowerment that comes with knowing you’re in control. And the best part? You’re not doing it alone. With PTFXTrader, you have a team of experts and a community of traders right by your side. It’s like having a cheat sheet for success.

But Is It Really That Good?  

Look, I get it. You’ve heard all the promises before: “This is the best platform ever!” or “You’ll make millions in no time!” Let’s be clear-PTFXTrader isn’t about hype. It’s about results.

Here’s the deal: No trading platform can guarantee success. If they did, they’d be lying. What PTFXTrader does is give you every possible advantage. From cutting-edge technology to expert advice, it’s all there to help you make smart, informed decisions. And honestly? That’s all you can ask for.

PTFXTrader

Why Now is the Time to Start  

You’ve probably heard the saying: “The best time to invest was yesterday. The second best time is today.” It’s true. The markets move fast, and opportunities don’t wait around.

PTFXTrader makes it easy to jump in without feeling overwhelmed. Whether you’re looking to dip your toes in or dive headfirst, this platform is ready for you. And hey, you don’t have to commit right away. Explore the features, see how it feels, and decide if it’s the right fit.

What’s Next? 

So, what’s the bottom line? If you’re looking for a trading platform that combines simplicity, trust, and expertise, PTFXTrader is it. It’s designed to help you succeed without the stress and confusion that often come with trading.

Give it a try. Open an account, explore the features, and see for yourself why so many people are choosing PTFXTrader. Who knows? It might just be the best decision you make this year.

So, what are you waiting for? Your trading journey starts here. And with PTFXTrader by your side, the possibilities are endless.