Top Zero-Knowledge Proof Projects to watch in 2023

Paulina Lewandowska

19 Apr 2023
Top Zero-Knowledge Proof Projects to watch in 2023

When it comes to blockchain technology, keeping privacy while verifying data is a challenge. However, with the help of zero-knowledge proof (ZKP) cryptography, one party can prove a statement true to another party without revealing any additional information. In the blockchain space, ZKP projects have gained significant attention in recent years for their ability to offer a solution to this challenge.

As we approach 2023, there are four top zero-knowledge proof projects that are worth keeping an eye on.

Zero-knowledge proof easy explanation in one minute

But first let's start with the quick introduction to topic.

Zero-knowledge proof is a way of proving the validity of statement without revealing the statement itself. To understand this better, imagine that...

That's what a zero-knowledge proof does in computer security, it proves something is true without revealing any secrets.

Top Zero-Knowledge Proof Projects to watch in 2023

Miden

Miden, a decentralized platform utilizing zero-knowledge proof, prioritizes user privacy and security for conducting business transactions. The platform boasts a unique privacy protocol that allows users to verify transactions without disclosing personal information. With a focus on user privacy and security, Miden provides a reliable and secure platform for conducting business. Additionally, its high level of scalability enables it to support large-scale enterprise applications, making it an excellent choice for users searching for a secure platform. Notably, Miden is among the leading zero-knowledge proof projects in 2023.

Polygon Zero

polygon.technology.com

Polygon Zero, a blockchain platform focused on maintaining privacy, utilizes zero-knowledge proof projects in 2023 to ensure secure and anonymous transactions. It aims to tackle the hindrances of conventional blockchains such as low throughput and slow transaction speeds. Unique privacy-focused features of Polygon Zero safeguard user data while facilitating efficient transactions. This revolutionary approach is especially beneficial for industries that demand high levels of security and privacy in transactions.

Polygon Zero's team has been actively improving the infrastructure and expanding the user base in terms of development progress. In fact, the platform has recently announced a strategic partnership with Polkadex, a decentralized exchange, enabling cross-chain transactions and providing liquidity. This prepares Polygon Zero for zero-knowledge proof projects in 2023, while showcasing its interoperability with other blockchain networks.

Polygon Hermez

Polygon Hermez, a scalable open-source zk-rollup, is set to become a key player in the blockchain industry in 2023 with its focus on scalability, interoperability, and security. It utilizes zero-knowledge proof to provide efficient and secure transactions on the Ethereum network, compressing multiple transactions into a single transaction to reduce gas fees and increase transaction throughput. With its interoperability features, Polygon Hermez enables cross-chain transactions and easy migration between blockchains, making it a viable solution for businesses looking to launch their own blockchain projects.

Metis

Metis, being a platform that utilizes zero-knowledge proof, offers privacy and scalability to businesses and individuals on the internet. It aims to solve the scalability challenge in the blockchain industry by providing an off-chain solution with the same level of security as on-chain transactions, particularly in zero-knowledge proof projects in 2023. The platform's architecture is designed to support large-scale enterprise applications with customizable templates, making it easy for developers to create decentralized applications (dApps) with minimal effort. Metis also offers tools for creating and launching token economies, facilitating crowdfunding campaigns, and managing communities, making it an all-in-one solution for businesses looking to launch their own blockchain projects. With its focus on privacy, scalability, and ease of use, Metis is definitely a platform to watch in 2023 in zero-knowledge proof projects.

Conclusion

In the realm of zero-knowledge proof technology, these four projects from 2023 exemplify groundbreaking advances. ZKP application in these projects addresses some of the most pressing issues in the blockchain sector, including scalability, privacy, and security. The implications for the industry are vast, as this new layer of privacy and security will significantly benefit both individuals and businesses online.

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Aethir Tokenomics – Case Study

Kajetan Olas

22 Nov 2024
Aethir Tokenomics – Case Study

Authors of the contents are not affiliated to the reviewed project in any way and none of the information presented should be taken as financial advice.

In this article we analyze tokenomics of Aethir - a project providing on-demand cloud compute resources for the AI, Gaming, and virtualized compute sectors.
Aethir aims to aggregate enterprise-grade GPUs from multiple providers into a DePIN (Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Network). Its competitive edge comes from utlizing the GPUs for very specific use-cases, such as low-latency rendering for online games.
Due to decentralized nature of its infrastructure Aethir can meet the demands of online-gaming in any region. This is especially important for some gamer-abundant regions in Asia with underdeveloped cloud infrastructure that causes high latency ("lags").
We will analyze Aethir's tokenomics, give our opinion on what was done well, and provide specific recommendations on how to improve it.

Evaluation Summary

Aethir Tokenomics Structure

The total supply of ATH tokens is capped at 42 billion ATH. This fixed cap provides a predictable supply environment, and the complete emissions schedule is listed here. As of November 2024 there are approximately 5.2 Billion ATH in circulation. In a year from now (November 2025), the circulating supply will almost triple, and will amount to approximately 15 Billion ATH. By November 2028, today's circulating supply will be diluted by around 86%.

From an investor standpoint the rational decision would be to stake their tokens and hope for rewards that will balance the inflation. Currently the estimated APR for 3-year staking is 195% and for 4-year staking APR is 261%. The rewards are paid out weekly. Furthermore, stakers can expect to get additional rewards from partnered AI projects.

Staking Incentives

Rewards are calculated based on the staking duration and staked amount. These factors are equally important and they linearly influence weekly rewards. This means that someone who stakes 100 ATH for 2 weeks will have the same weekly rewards as someone who stakes 200 ATH for 1 week. This mechanism greatly emphasizes long-term holding. That's because holding a token makes sense only if you go for long-term staking. E.g. a whale staking $200k with 1 week lockup. will have the same weekly rewards as person staking $1k with 4 year lockup. Furthermore the ATH staking rewards are fixed and divided among stakers. Therefore Increase of user base is likely to come with decrease in rewards.
We believe the main weak-point of Aethirs staking is the lack of equivalency between rewards paid out to the users and value generated for the protocol as a result of staking.

Token Distribution

The token distribution of $ATH is well designed and comes with long vesting time-frames. 18-month cliff and 36-moths subsequent linear vesting is applied to team's allocation. This is higher than industry standard and is a sign of long-term commitment.

  • Checkers and Compute Providers: 50%
  • Ecosystem: 15%
  • Team: 12.5%
  • Investors: 11.5%
  • Airdrop: 6%
  • Advisors: 5%

Aethir's airdrop is divided into 3 phases to ensure that only loyal users get rewarded. This mechanism is very-well thought and we rate it highly. It fosters high community engagement within the first months of the project and sets the ground for potentially giving more-control to the DAO.

Governance and Community-Led Development

Aethir’s governance model promotes community-led decision-making in a very practical way. Instead of rushing with creation of a DAO for PR and marketing purposes Aethir is trying to make it the right way. They support projects building on their infrastructure and regularly share updates with their community in the most professional manner.

We believe Aethir would benefit from implementing reputation boosted voting. An example of such system is described here. The core assumption is to abandon the simplistic: 1 token = 1 vote and go towards: Votes = tokens * reputation_based_multiplication_factor.

In the attached example, reputation_based_multiplication_factor rises exponentially with the number of standard deviations above norm, with regard to user's rating. For compute compute providers at Aethir, user's rating could be replaced by provider's uptime.

Perspectives for the future

While it's important to analyze aspects such as supply-side tokenomics, or governance, we must keep in mind that 95% of project's success depends on demand-side. In this regard the outlook for Aethir may be very bright. The project declares $36M annual reccuring revenue. Revenue like this is very rare in the web3 space. Many projects are not able to generate any revenue after succesfull ICO event, due to lack fo product-market-fit.

If you're looking to create a robust tokenomics model and go through institutional-grade testing please reach out to contact@nextrope.com. Our team is ready to help you with the token engineering process and ensure your project’s resilience in the long term.

Nextrope Partners with Hacken to Enhance Blockchain Security

Miłosz

21 Nov 2024
Nextrope Partners with Hacken to Enhance Blockchain Security

Nextrope announces a strategic partnership with Hacken, a renowned blockchain security auditor. It marks a significant step in delivering reliable decentralized solutions. After several successful collaborations resulting in flawless smart contract audits, the alliance solidifies the synergy between Nextrope's innovative blockchain development and Hacken's top-tier security auditing services. Together, we aim to set new benchmarks, ensuring that security is an integral part of blockchain technology.

Strengthening Blockchain Security

The partnership aims to fortify the security protocols within blockchain ecosystems. By integrating Hacken's comprehensive security audits with Nextrope's cutting-edge blockchain solutions, we are poised to offer unparalleled security features in our projects.

"Blockchain security should never be an afterthought"

"Our partnership with Hacken underscores our dedication to embedding security at the core of our blockchain solutions. Together, we're building a safer future for the industry."

said Mateusz Mach, CEO of Nextrope

About Nextrope

Nextrope is a forward-thinking blockchain development house specializing in creating innovative solutions for businesses worldwide. With a team of experienced developers and blockchain experts, Nextrope delivers high-quality, scalable, and secure blockchain applications tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.

About Hacken

Hacken is a leading blockchain security auditor known for its rigorous smart contract audits and security assessments. With a mission to make the industry safer, Hacken provides complex security services that help companies identify and mitigate vulnerabilities in their applications.

Looking Ahead

As a joint mission, both Nextrope and Hacken are committed to continuous innovation. We look forward to the exciting opportunities this partnership will bring and are eager to implement a more secure blockchain environment for all.

For more information, please contact:

Nextrope

Hacken

Join us on our journey to deliver top-notch blockchain tech and a safer future for the industry!