The hottest Blockchain Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Business Topics
TK News by Matt Taibbi • 1878 implied HN points • 17 Mar 26
  1. Crypto prediction markets now handle huge, fast-moving wagers on real-world conflicts and sometimes outpace traditional sportsbooks in volume.
  2. A pattern of last-minute, correct bets ahead of military strikes has raised strong concerns about insider information and market manipulation, triggering investigations and alarm.
  3. Platforms, institutions, and lawmakers are reacting — markets are being restricted or removed, firms are partnering with surveillance and analytics companies, and Congress is proposing bans to curb officials and unethical profit from geopolitical events.
Postcards From Barsoom • 3906 implied HN points • 13 Oct 24
  1. To create good times, we need to focus on becoming great individuals first. It's not just about what you do, but about who you choose to be.
  2. In our current world, there's a lot of distraction and mediocrity. We must resist this and strive for excellence by not settling for average.
  3. History shows us the importance of strength and preparation. To appreciate peace, you must understand the value of being ready for conflict.
Kerman Kohli • 99 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
  1. RPC calls to blockchain nodes only succeed about 78.5% of the time on average. This means that sometimes you might have trouble getting the data you need.
  2. The performance of nodes varies depending on the blockchain you’re accessing, the RPC provider you choose, and even the time of day you make your requests.
  3. To ensure better reliability, it’s smart to use multiple node providers rather than depending on just one. This way, if one fails, you have a backup.
The Pomp Letter • 539 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
  1. Stablecoins are becoming popular worldwide, in both rich and poor countries. They're helping a lot of people with their money transactions.
  2. Many users want to hold stablecoins and use them for payments. This shows there's a real need for these types of digital currencies.
  3. The growth of stablecoins is happening quickly, especially on faster blockchain platforms. This trend suggests that stablecoins could take a big share of how we use dollars in the future.
DeFi Education • 379 implied HN points • 22 Sep 24
  1. Aerodrome Finance is a fast-growing decentralized exchange, mainly on Coinbase's Layer 2 called 'Base'.
  2. In just over a year, Aerodrome has attracted over 10,000 daily users and handles about $9 billion in trading each month.
  3. The platform is generating significant earnings, with annual trading fees exceeding $100 million.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:
DeFi Education • 1338 implied HN points • 27 Aug 24
  1. The value in the crypto world is moving from blockchains to applications. People are more likely to use services that are user-friendly and cost-effective, instead of focusing on how the technology behind them works.
  2. As blockspace becomes more available and costs decrease, successful crypto projects will likely be the ones that offer the best applications and services. It's important to focus on investing in these applications rather than just the big blockchains like Bitcoin or Ethereum.
  3. Decentralization is important in crypto, but it's also okay for corporations to build applications as long as they respect the principles of openness and equality. Anyone can learn to create something valuable in crypto, which makes it accessible for everyone.
DeFi Education • 459 implied HN points • 14 Sep 24
  1. Coinbase is bringing tokenized Bitcoin to the Ethereum network, which could have a big impact on DeFi. This is significant because the Bitcoin network holds a lot of value.
  2. There are updates on Trump’s World Liberty Financial, hinting at its involvement in the DeFi space. This reflects the growing interest from traditional finance figures in decentralized finance.
  3. A bi-weekly Q&A section is included, allowing subscribers to ask questions related to DeFi. This engagement can help the community learn and understand more about developments in the space.
DeFi Education • 559 implied HN points • 07 Sep 24
  1. DeFi can simplify foreign exchange transactions by allowing people to pay for goods in one currency while quickly converting it to another on-chain, making it cheaper and faster than traditional bank methods.
  2. Using crypto for migrant remittances can significantly lower transaction fees, helping workers send money home with minimal costs, unlike banks that charge high fees.
  3. Businesses can manage their foreign currency needs more efficiently using DeFi, avoiding complex dealings with banks and saving money with faster, more transparent transactions.
The Lunacian • 46 implied HN points • 18 Mar 26
  1. The Elite 4 finals take place on March 22 with a livestream at 7PM PH / 6AM EST where four top players will compete for the season crown.
  2. Tournament rules require each player to register three distinct teams of three axies, follow part-overlap restrictions and no swapping, and matches use a double-elimination, first-to-3 format with a twice-to-beat Grand Finals advantage for the undefeated player.
  3. Prizes include a 1,200 AXS purse plus an Origin Axie for the champion, and a separate 10,000 AXS season pool will be distributed based on collectible tickets (15,838,917 tickets at 0.63135629 mAXS each), with AXS sent to players' Ronin addresses in the coming weeks.
DeFi Education • 519 implied HN points • 31 Aug 24
  1. This post is a bi-weekly Q&A about DeFi, where you can ask anything related to decentralized finance.
  2. Topics include technology, security, protocols, and how-to guides for crypto.
  3. It's important to remember that the insights provided are mainly for paid subscribers.
DeFi Education • 799 implied HN points • 17 Aug 24
  1. There aren't many builders in the crypto space, making each person's contribution significant. With about 7,600 full-time developers, what you create can really shape the future of crypto.
  2. Choosing the right ecosystem is crucial for your project. Ethereum has the most liquidity for DeFi, but Solana offers advantages for certain uses, so it really depends on your goals.
  3. The competition among Layer 2 solutions on Ethereum brings both benefits and challenges. They can be fast and cheap, but also create complexity and can be centralized, affecting the overall developer experience.
DeFi Education • 479 implied HN points • 23 Aug 24
  1. Donald Trump's endorsement of DeFi could attract new users who previously dismissed it, possibly sparking increased interest and growth in the sector.
  2. Political support for DeFi may lead to improved regulatory conditions, which can benefit established protocols and foster better returns for investors.
  3. Despite potential growth, the current market for altcoins remains risky, so it's essential to time investments carefully and focus more on trades than long-term holds.
DeFi Education • 719 implied HN points • 19 Jul 24
  1. DeFi, or decentralized finance, allows people to access financial services directly over the internet without needing banks. This is exciting because it can reduce costs and frustrations from traditional banking.
  2. Many people still view DeFi as complicated or risky due to past scams. However, there's a growing acceptance from governments and institutions that could help improve its image.
  3. The future of DeFi looks promising as big companies start to embrace its technology. It’s important for people to learn about DeFi now since it will likely become a key part of the financial system in the coming years.
DeFi Education • 519 implied HN points • 02 Aug 24
  1. Coinbase has reported better than expected earnings and revenue for Q2 2024. This is a positive sign for the company's financial health.
  2. Despite the earnings beat, Coinbase's stock price has dropped about 2% since the last report. This trend seems to match the broader crypto market conditions.
  3. The expectation for Coinbase's long-term success remains strong due to its strong position in the US market. They are seen as having a unique advantage or 'quasi-monopoly'.
DeFi Education • 519 implied HN points • 14 Jul 24
  1. The Q&A sessions provide expert insights from knowledgeable professionals in finance and crypto. This helps people understand complex topics better.
  2. These sessions are designed to keep subscribers informed about the latest trends in the DeFi space. Staying updated is important for making smart decisions.
  3. The content is aimed at both new and experienced individuals in the crypto world. Everyone can benefit from the shared knowledge.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 282 implied HN points • 19 Jan 26
  1. A Polymarket user turned a $32,000 wager into about $400,000 by betting Nicolás Maduro would be out of power, then deleted their account, prompting questions about who knew what.
  2. Prediction markets can let people with access to sensitive information make large, fast profits, raising concerns that insiders may be emboldened to cash in.
  3. Prediction markets are not new: economists like Robin Hanson proposed them decades ago and even suggested using them for governance (a concept called futarchy), which makes their rise both influential and controversial.
DeFi Education • 839 implied HN points • 08 Jun 24
  1. There are different blockchain ecosystems called Layer 1, Layer 2, and Layer 3, and each has its own use and benefits. Understanding these layers can help you decide where to invest your time and money.
  2. Layer 2 solutions help blockchains process more transactions efficiently by using off-chain data to save on resources. This means faster transactions and lower costs, making them a hot spot in the crypto world.
  3. Layer 3 is a newer concept that sits on top of Layer 2, focusing on specific apps and improving their functionality. While still experimental, investing in Layer 3 can present unique opportunities.
DeFi Education • 559 implied HN points • 29 Jun 24
  1. The SEC has sued Consensys, which owns Metamask, over issues related to swapping and staking Ethereum. This means there are legal problems in the way these services operate.
  2. There seems to be a contradiction in the SEC's actions, as they recently approved an ETH spot ETF while also targeting staking services. This might confuse many in the crypto community.
  3. Some believe that the SEC's actions can actually help clarify regulations for decentralized finance (DeFi). It could discourage companies from trying to act like traditional middlemen in crypto.
Freddie deBoer • 8384 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24
  1. The crypto industry has a problem with accepting responsibility for scams and fraud. Many people in the community brush off losses with a 'what did you expect?' attitude, which doesn't help their credibility.
  2. A serious industry should focus on cleaning up its image and ensuring accountability. If crypto enthusiasts want people to take their industry seriously, they need to demand better practices.
  3. If the crypto culture continues to mock victims of scams, it risks pushing more people towards stricter regulations. This could hurt the industry in the long run.
Ronin’s Newsletter • 245 implied HN points • 08 Jan 26
  1. A $50,000 creator bounty program rewards content about Grand Arena over a 12-week period, with submissions accepted from January 12 to April 6 and anyone eligible regardless of follower count.
  2. The prize structure includes a shared pool (about $7,500 every 4 weeks, with an extra $7,500 if 100 approved pieces are reached) that pays roughly $150 per approved piece, plus a $5,000 bonus pool for weekly and top content awards; payouts are distributed every 4 weeks in Ronin (RON equivalent).
  3. Creators can submit many content types—threads, videos (30s–10min), art, memes, music, cosplay, and podcasts—via the submission form starting Jan 12, and entries are judged on quality, originality, and consistency while spam, stolen, or low-effort work won’t be rewarded.
DeFi Education • 459 implied HN points • 28 Jun 24
  1. Crypto businesses are evolving beyond just interesting technology. They need to solve real market problems to succeed.
  2. Layer 2 solutions help reduce costs and improve transaction speeds. They thrive on attracting users by offering engaging applications.
  3. Most crypto platforms operate as marketplaces, connecting different types of users. They make money by taking a small percentage of transactions.
The Lunacian • 690 implied HN points • 11 Nov 25
  1. Pawn Stars introduced NFTs to a mainstream audience. Hosts Rick Harrison and Chumlee learned about crypto live, making it fun and accessible for their viewers.
  2. Collecting NFTs is becoming more popular, and shows like Pawn Stars help people understand their value and appeal. It's about enjoying the thrill of collecting, just like with rare items.
  3. There's a helpful Ronin Collector’s Guide for beginners. It shows how to start collecting digital items and understand the basics of using crypto wallets.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 190 implied HN points • 15 Jan 26
  1. Eric Adams launched a meme coin after leaving office and said its proceeds would fight anti-Americanism and antisemitism and teach kids about crypto, but he never explained how the token would actually deliver those goals.
  2. Hours after launch, anonymous transactions withdrew $2.5 million and then $1.5 million was oddly added back, a pattern that looks like a classic rug pull and left it unclear who profited.
  3. This episode matches a wider pattern where celebrity meme coins are opaque, often designed to confuse buyers and enrich creators, and can leave ordinary investors with big losses.
Chartbook • 443 implied HN points • 30 Nov 25
  1. Volatility is seen as a special gift to loyal supporters of Satoshi, hinting at how unpredictable markets can create opportunities.
  2. Artwork, like Milorad Bata Mihajlović's, highlights the cultural connection between finance and art, showing how both worlds can intersect.
  3. The mention of drones and balloons brings attention to modern technology, indicating its role in shaping current global events and conflicts.
DeFi Education • 499 implied HN points • 15 Jun 24
  1. The Q&A sessions feature experts with strong backgrounds in finance and software, making it a great opportunity to learn about crypto.
  2. These sessions help both new and experienced subscribers get insights and stay informed in the ever-changing DeFi space.
  3. It's a bi-weekly event that encourages knowledge sharing and offers a platform for questions related to decentralized finance.
DeFi Education • 419 implied HN points • 25 Jun 24
  1. Using the Tenderly Simulator can help you identify fake transactions in the crypto space. It's a useful tool to double-check if a transaction is legitimate or a scam.
  2. Recently, a security issue caused many wallets to be drained and led to scam notifications being sent out. This highlights the importance of security measures in crypto wallets.
  3. It's always a good idea to review security practices regularly to protect your crypto assets. Staying informed can help prevent falling victim to scams.
DeFi Education • 599 implied HN points • 01 Jun 24
  1. Q&A sessions provide expert insights from experienced professionals in finance and software. They help people understand the complexities of crypto.
  2. The sessions are designed to engage and inform new subscribers about current trends in the crypto market.
  3. Participation in these Q&A sessions can enhance one's knowledge and confidence in navigating decentralized finance.
DeFi Education • 699 implied HN points • 15 May 24
  1. Crypto is political. It challenges how money is controlled by banks and governments, giving people more power over their finances.
  2. Decentralized finance has roots in a movement that values privacy and individual rights. The focus is on creating systems that allow anonymous transactions to resist government control.
  3. In the election year, pay attention to how political changes affect crypto projects, token economics, and privacy coins. The shifting political landscape can create opportunities and challenges for the crypto space.
DeFi Education • 519 implied HN points • 29 May 24
  1. Be careful with your personal information online. Don't share your phone number or email on social platforms like Twitter/X.
  2. Stay updated on security issues, especially if using popular apps. Recent hacks show that accounts can be easily compromised.
  3. There are new updates in DeFi, so keep an eye out for announcements like points farming that can benefit you.
DeFi Education • 399 implied HN points • 12 Jun 24
  1. Layer 3 is the application layer that helps make blockchain technology user-friendly. It aims to simplify how people interact with decentralized finance (DeFi) and other crypto apps.
  2. Layers 1 and 2 are the foundational blockchains, but most users won't need to understand them. The goal is to focus on user experience rather than the underlying complexity.
  3. To bring crypto applications to a wider audience, it’s important to extend and enhance existing technologies, making them more accessible to everyone.
Ronin’s Newsletter • 86 implied HN points • 28 Jan 26
  1. Ronin Vanguard is the public-facing Sky Mavis Growth Team for the Ronin ecosystem, serving as a bridge between the community, builders, and internal teams.
  2. They answer questions, gather and surface user feedback, connect creators and partners, join live events, and amplify community content to help improve Ronin.
  3. The team includes specialists across product, creators, growth, and support who are available on X and Discord as real people, and they expect constructive, harassment-free engagement.
DeFi Education • 699 implied HN points • 19 Apr 24
  1. Runes on Bitcoin are a new way to interact with the Bitcoin network. They provide innovative features that enhance its functionality.
  2. Hyperliquid recently airdropped a token called $PURR, which is linked to a farming guide that many users followed earlier.
  3. To access more in-depth content about Runes, a paid subscription is required.
DeFi Education • 579 implied HN points • 04 May 24
  1. DeFi education is important for understanding finance and crypto. It helps people make informed decisions in the market.
  2. Q&A sessions feature experts who share their knowledge. This is a great opportunity to learn from experienced professionals.
  3. Staying updated with the latest trends in DeFi can lead to better investment choices. Engaging in discussions and asking questions enhances your understanding.
DeFi Education • 479 implied HN points • 18 May 24
  1. The Q&A sessions provide expert knowledge from experienced professionals in finance and cryptocurrency.
  2. These sessions help subscribers understand the current state of the crypto market.
  3. It's a chance for new subscribers to ask questions and gain insights about DeFi topics.
DeFi Education • 939 implied HN points • 09 Mar 24
  1. The Q&A sessions provide expert insights from experienced professionals in finance and software, helping participants understand complex topics better.
  2. These sessions are designed to answer specific questions about decentralized finance (DeFi), making it easier for attendees to learn and engage.
  3. It's an opportunity for subscribers to gain knowledge in a bull market, where they can ask questions and receive advice tailored to their needs.
Dan Hughes • 339 implied HN points • 08 Jun 24
  1. The honest majority assumption is key for blockchain security. It means that most participants must act honestly to keep the network safe from attacks.
  2. Full nodes rely on validator nodes to check the validity of transactions. If most validators are dishonest, full nodes cannot prevent issues like double spending.
  3. Economic security is important for discouraging attacks on a network. High stakes for validators make it less likely for them to act maliciously, as the potential losses from being caught far outweigh any gains.
DeFi Education • 959 implied HN points • 02 Mar 24
  1. Memecoins are becoming popular again and making big gains in the market. This means they can't be ignored anymore.
  2. Many people enjoy memecoins, and this interest is influencing market trends significantly.
  3. It's important to focus on market behaviors rather than personal beliefs when investing in cryptocurrencies.
DeFi Education • 739 implied HN points • 29 Mar 24
  1. DistrictOne is a new platform that aims to attract users from popular crypto chat platforms like Discord. Joining is cheap, costing around $20, and you can access various chat rooms called Spaces.
  2. By participating in DistrictOne, you can earn rewards like OLE tokens and other bonuses. Even minimal daily interactions can lead to returns that may double or triple your initial investment.
  3. To maximize your experience, focus on joining active chat rooms and engage frequently. Buying shares and using boosts can help increase your earnings from the platform.