My Holiday Recap 🎁🎄

Simplifying emerging technology trends with Shira Lazar. Learn what matters in web3 and AI in under 3 minutes per week.

Author

Shira Lazar
December 25, 2023

This Week in Web3...

A recap of This Week in Web3

In 2023, the Web3 space focused on solidifying projects of substance, setting the stage for significant growth in 2024.

✅ Stablecoins, gaining popularity for their stability and ease of use, are expected to match Visa and Mastercard's volumes, with major financial institutions like PayPal launching their own stablecoins.

🕹️ The Web3 gaming sector is projected to see a breakout game achieve a global user base in the nine digits, driven by the growing trend of players owning in-game assets.

💰 Bitcoin's market capitalization is anticipated to grow by 50% in 2024, especially with the upcoming halving event and the potential introduction of spot Bitcoin ETFs.

🖼️ NFTs are set to expand beyond collectibles, integrating into loyalty programs and customer engagement strategies, particularly in Asia.

🤖 Finally, the rise of advanced AI technologies, like Large Language Models, is expected to drastically reduce DeFi exploits by identifying and rectifying human-made coding errors more efficiently.

Amazon Prime Gaming is expanding its foray into the NFT space by offering exclusive, free NFTs for various blockchain games to its subscribers. These NFTs, available for games like Gods Unchained, Brawlers, and Mojo Melee, include unique characters, skins, and in-game items. Additionally, Prime Gaming is also providing non-NFT exclusive content and benefits across other games, such as My Pet Hooligan, NFL Rivals, and Champions Ascension, underscoring its commitment to a diverse range of gaming experiences and rewards for its members.

China's Ministry of Science and Technology, in collaboration with the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the China Association for Science and Technology, is set to release a comprehensive Web3 strategy. This document aims to address innovation, security, and the role of government in the burgeoning Web3 sector. Despite a ban on cryptocurrencies, the country shows strong interest in Web3 developments, including NFTs. Previous initiatives include policies on blockchain technology and its applications in various sectors like energy and finance. The upcoming strategy will emphasize government and industry collaboration, fostering new business models like NFTs and decentralized applications (dApps), and the overall acceleration and integration of Web3 technologies into China's digital ecosystem.

Quick Headlines

AI Corner

AI-Powered NPCs Are Making Their Way to Gaming

Animoca Brands co-founder Yat Siu predicts that nonplayer characters (NPCs) in video games will eventually be powered by advanced AI and could even exist perpetually on the blockchain, functioning across multiple games. While fully realized AI NPCs are still years away, early versions are expected in 2024, featuring more interactive and responsive characters, including voice and facial expressions.

Big tech firms like NVIDIA and Microsoft are already developing tools to enhance NPC intelligence, with applications in dynamically generated game narratives.

Additionally, blockchain technology and Ethereum’s ERC-6551 token standard are being explored to integrate AI in games, enabling NPCs to perform tasks autonomously and reducing the repetitive aspects of gameplay for players.

This Week We’re Bullish On

Robin Arzón, a former lawyer turned ultra-marathon runner and global fitness leader, is the VP of Fitness Programming at Peloton and a bestselling author of books like "Shut Up And Run" and "Strong Mama."

Renowned for her transformative approach to wellness and mental strength, she has completed over 27 marathons and numerous ultra-marathons, advocating for the power of movement in overcoming challenges. A magnetic keynote speaker and influential in the wellness and lifestyle sectors, Robin's accolades include Fortune's 40 Under 40 and Glamour's "Daring to Disrupt" Award.

She's also the founder of Swagger Society, a pioneering lifestyle club in web3, and holds certifications in multiple fitness disciplines.

Join Robin's Inner Circle for exclusive access to her and the opportunity to connect with fellow hustlers seeking to elevate their lives. Stay in touch through the private Swagger Society app, fostering meaningful relationships and growth.

Happy Holidays From My Family to Yours

Hope you enjoyed this week's edition of the Alpha newsletter!

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With gratitude,