Introduction
Good evening, everyone! I’m Zhao Gang from Saizhi Times, an Angel Growth Camp alumnus and blockchain researcher since late 2015. Over the past few years, I’ve authored Blockchain: The Cornerstone of the Value Internet and founded Saizhi Blockchain. While I’ve witnessed the industry’s evolution, I’ve also missed key opportunities in cryptocurrency and token offerings. Today, I’ll focus on blockchain’s intrinsic investment value and current hotspots, offering insights for rational decision-making.
Part 1: The Essence of Blockchain
Blockchain serves as the foundation for the next-generation internet—the Value Internet. Here’s how:
1. Blockchain as the Backbone of Digital Currency
- Solves Double-Spending: Ensures digital assets can’t be duplicated, enabling trustless transactions.
- Decentralized Efficiency: Eliminates intermediaries, enabling instant settlements via smart contracts.
- Transparency: Immutable transaction histories enhance security and auditability.
2. Enabler of Digital Asset Circulation
- Extends beyond currency to tokenized assets (stocks, real estate, IP) via blockchain-backed "securities" (tokens).
- Example: Smart contracts automate asset transfers, reducing fraud risks.
3. Trust Machine
- Uses cryptographic proofs and consensus algorithms to create tamper-proof records.
- Supports multi-party governance, fostering collaborative economies.
4. Societal Impact
- Aligns with shared-economy models and cross-organizational cooperation.
- Potential to bridge wealth gaps through decentralized value exchange.
Key Takeaways:
Blockchain is revolutionizing finance, governance, and digital interactions by merging trust with technology.
Part 2: Investment Hotspots in Blockchain
1. Cryptocurrency 3.0 Innovations
- Focus: Scalability (EOS), privacy (Zcash), and interoperability (Polkadot).
Examples:
- Global: Cosmos, Dfinity.
- China: NEO, QTUM, Wanchain.
2. Public-Chain Applications
- Trends: IoT (IOTA), AI (Singularity), and content platforms (Steemit).
Promising Projects:
- APEX (prediction markets), Zeepin (IP management).
👉 Explore blockchain investment strategies
3. Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs)
- Opportunities: Wallet tech (Alipay), secure payment infra.
- Key Players: Matrix元, JD Financial.
4. Consortium Chains for Industries
- Use Cases: Supply chains (IBM), energy grids, agri-cooperatives.
- Leaders: Hyperledger, Bubi.
FAQs
Q1: Is blockchain only about Bitcoin?
A: No—it’s a broader tool for asset tokenization and secure transactions.
Q2: What makes CBDCs unique?
A: They’re state-backed, combining blockchain efficiency with regulatory oversight.
Q3: How do smart contracts work?
A: Self-executing code that triggers actions (e.g., payments) when conditions are met.
Q4: Are public chains safer than private ones?
A: Public chains offer transparency, while consortium chains prioritize speed and control.
Q5: What’s the next big trend?
A: Cross-chain interoperability (e.g., Polkadot) enabling asset transfers between blockchains.
Conclusion
Blockchain’s potential spans finance, governance, and beyond. Investors should prioritize scalable tech, real-world applications, and regulatory-compliant projects. As the sector matures, discernment between hype and substance will be critical.