190: The Future of AI in Web3: Nick from ComputeLabs on GPU as the New Asset Class

In this special episode, Sam interviews Nick from ComputeLabs live from Token 2049. Together, they dive deep into the intersection of AI and Web3, discussing whether the two technologies need each other or can operate independently. Nick explains how ComputeLabs is changing the landscape by financializing GPUs—the assets that power AI—and their vision for building a decentralized ecosystem around compute power. They also explore the future of AI, the role of GPUs, and how startups can seize the opportunities ahead. Whether you're into AI, Web3, or simply curious about the evolution of technology, this episode is packed with insights for you. Key Timestamps [00:00:00] Introduction: Sam introduces Nick from ComputeLabs and gives a sneak peek into the episode's discussion on AI, Web3, and GPU innovation. [00:02:00] ComputeLabs Overview: Nick explains what ComputeLabs does and how it solves problems in the GPU space. [00:05:00] GPUs in Web3: How ComputeLabs provides GPU leasing services for AI and Web3 companies. [00:08:00] Challenges in the GPU Market: Nick discusses the fragmentation in Web3 and ComputeLabs' approach to simplifying the user experience. [00:12:00] The Role of Tokenization: Nick shares how ComputeLabs plans to tokenize GPU assets and the reasoning behind creating a utility token. [00:15:00] The Future of NVIDIA: A discussion on NVIDIA's dominance in the GPU market and whether this trend will continue. [00:18:00] Trends in AI and Web3: What Nick sees in the future of both AI and Web3, especially in decentralized infrastructure. [00:24:00] AI vs Web3 Philosophy: Sam and Nick discuss how AI centralizes while Web3 decentralizes, and how ComputeLabs bridges the gap. [00:27:00] Final Thoughts and Ask: Nick's call to action for companies looking to lease GPUs or get involved in ComputeLabs' ecosystem. Connect https://www.computelabs.ai/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/computelabs-ai/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikolayfilichkin/ Disclaimer Nothing mentioned in this podcast is investment advice and please do your own research. Finally, it would mean a lot if you can leave a review of this podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and share this podcast with a friend.Be a guest on the podcast or contact us - https://www.web3pod.xyz/

In this gripping episode, we dive deep into a breaking crypto controversy involving the SEC, DOJ, and multiple market makers. At the heart of the story is an FBI sting operation with a fake cryptocurrency called Next Fund AI, designed to expose fraudulent market manipulation. Allegations are swirling around several market makers for engaging in illegal wash trading, artificially inflating trading volumes and prices to mislead investors. We unpack the difference between legitimate market-making and illegal wash trading, explore what this case could mean for the future of the crypto space, and discuss how investors can protect themselves from similar schemes. If you want to understand how regulatory bodies are cracking down on crypto fraud, this episode is a must-listen. Key points with timestamps [00:01:00] - Overview of the SEC and DOJ charges against crypto market makers. [00:02:10] - The FBI's undercover operation with Next Fund AI to expose fraud. [00:03:00] - Explanation of wash trading and its impact on crypto markets. [00:05:15] - The distinction between legitimate market-making and fraudulent trading schemes. [00:07:45] - Allegations against specific market makers like ZM Kwan, CLS Global, and more. [00:08:30] - The potential long-term regulatory effects on the crypto industry. [00:09:30] - Advice for crypto investors on how to avoid falling for manipulated markets. Disclaimer: Nothing mentioned in this podcast is investment advice, and please do your own research. Finally, it would mean a lot if you can leave a review of this podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and share this podcast with a friend. Be a guest on the podcast or contact us - https://www.web3pod.xyz/

In episode 188, Vincent, co-founder of Tixbase, explains how his company is revolutionizing the ticketing industry. From solving issues like scalping and site crashes to introducing new ways for event organizers to earn, Vincent shares how Tixbase offers a more efficient and transparent infrastructure for ticketing platforms. With their innovative use of blockchain technology, Tixbase is empowering ticketing companies while creating a better experience for end users. Learn how this tech will impact sports, concerts, and large-scale events globally. Key Timestamps [00:00:00] Introduction: Sam introduces the episode and Vincent, co-founder of Tixbase, discussing their innovative ticketing infrastructure. [00:01:00] Vincent’s Background: Vincent shares his journey into Web3, starting with his brother's Bitcoin mining operation and evolving into commercial ventures like Nifty Gateway. [00:03:00] What is Tixbase?: Vincent explains how Tixbase offers a B2B ticketing infrastructure that tackles issues like scalping, bots, and ticket resale. [00:05:30] Solving Industry Problems: Vincent dives into the problems with traditional ticketing systems and how Tixbase provides a solution for both companies and end users. [00:07:00] Who Uses Tixbase?: A discussion on Tixbase’s ideal customers—large-scale ticketing platforms—and their deals in Turkey, Brazil, and beyond. [00:09:00] The Benefits of Blockchain: Vincent explains how blockchain enables a transparent and secure ticketing system, improving user experience and ensuring fair resale. [00:14:00] Easy Adoption: Tixbase’s user-friendly web2-like experience, making the shift to blockchain seamless for users. [00:21:00] The Launch of Tix Chain: Vincent discusses the upcoming Tix Chain, a blockchain specifically built for ticketing. [00:26:00] Scaling Tixbase: How Tixbase is planning to scale globally, including their equity raise and future hiring plans. [00:29:00] A Bigger Vision: Vincent hints at Tixbase’s broader vision of becoming the Web3 infrastructure for digital products beyond ticketing. [00:30:30] Closing Remarks: Sam and Vincent wrap up the conversation and discuss future milestones for Tixbase. Connect https://www.tixbase.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/tixbase/ https://x.com/tixbase https://www.linkedin.com/in/vincent-harrison-26ab911a9/ Disclaimer Nothing mentioned in this podcast is investment advice and please do your own research. Finally, it would mean a lot if you can leave a review of this podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and share this podcast with a friend. Be a guest on the podcast or contact us - https://www.web3pod.xyz/

Podcast Description In episode 187, Gabrielle Taylor, founder of Subbd, shares how she’s transforming the content creation landscape with her innovative platform. As a seasoned content creator with over 100,000 followers, Gabrielle discusses the challenges creators face, from monetization issues to content management. Learn how Subbd uses AI and blockchain to help creators streamline their workflows, better engage with their audiences, and fully own and monetize their content. Whether you’re a creator or just curious about the future of digital media, this episode offers valuable insights into how technology is empowering the next generation of content creators. Key Timestamps [00:00:00] Introduction: Sam introduces Gabrielle Taylor and her platform, Subbd. [00:01:00] Gabrielle’s Background: Gabrielle shares her journey as a content creator and the inspiration behind Subbd. [00:03:00] Challenges for Content Creators: Discussing common issues creators face and how Subbd addresses them. [00:06:00] The Role of AI in Subbd: How AI personal assistants can manage content creation and fan engagement. [00:08:00] Monetizing Content with Blockchain: Exploring how creators can tokenize their content on Subbd. [00:12:00] AI vs. Human Creators: Discussing the balance between AI-generated and real human content creators. [00:18:00] Looking Ahead: Gabrielle’s vision for the future of content creation and the growth of Subbd. [00:25:00] Final Thoughts: How Subbd plans to revolutionize the content creation industry. Connect https://www.subbd.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/subbd https://x.com/SUBBDofficial/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrielle-taylor-87617956/ https://x.com/GabbyTaylor_ Disclaimer Nothing mentioned in this podcast is investment advice and please do your own research. Finally, it would mean a lot if you can leave a review of this podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and share this podcast with a friend.Be a guest on the podcast or contact us - https://www.web3pod.xyz/

In Episode 186 of Web3 with Sam Kamani, I sit down with Willem Schroe, co-founder of Botanix Labs, to discuss the future of Bitcoin and the role Layer 2 solutions like Botanix will play in expanding the Bitcoin ecosystem. Willem and his team are building Spiderchain, a Layer 2 EVM on Bitcoin that opens up decentralized financial applications and scalability like never before. We dive deep into macroeconomic topics such as Bitcoin's deflationary nature, its role as a store of value, and whether people will start spending Bitcoin for everyday transactions. We also explore the technical and economic potential of Bitcoin’s layer two infrastructure, how Botanix reduces gas fees, and what decentralized finance on Bitcoin might look like in the coming years. Key Timestamps [00:00:00] Introduction: Sam introduces Willem Schroé, co-founder of Botanix Labs, to discuss building a Layer 2 solution on Bitcoin, Spiderchain, and the evolution of Bitcoin as a financial ecosystem. [00:02:00] Willem’s Journey: Willem shares how his background in cryptography and time in the Middle East inspired him to dedicate his work to advancing the Bitcoin ecosystem. [00:05:00] What is Botanix? Willem explains how Botanix is a Layer 2 EVM on Bitcoin that allows for the development of decentralized applications (DeFi, DEXs, lending protocols) on Bitcoin. [00:08:30] Bitcoin as a Global Financial System: Willem discusses how Botanix can bring applications like decentralized exchanges and lending platforms to Bitcoin, enabling users to borrow against their Bitcoin holdings. [00:10:00] Overcoming Bitcoin’s Speed and Scalability Issues: Willem addresses the challenge of Bitcoin being slow and hard to build on, and how Layer 2 solutions like Botanix can scale Bitcoin while maintaining security and decentralization. [00:13:00] Paying Gas Fees in Bitcoin: How Botanix allows users to pay gas fees in Bitcoin on Layer 2, providing a seamless experience for Bitcoin users. [00:16:00] Deflationary Bitcoin and Spending: Willem debates the idea that people won’t spend deflationary assets like Bitcoin, explaining how customer demand will unlock Bitcoin for spending in DeFi applications. [00:19:00] Bitcoin Yield: Willem introduces the concept of Bitcoin yield through decentralized Layer 2 solutions, making it possible to generate yield in Bitcoin without leaving the Bitcoin ecosystem. [00:23:00] Bitcoin TVL (Total Value Locked) Growth: How the infrastructure being built on Bitcoin, including stablecoins and DeFi products, will drive a significant increase in Bitcoin’s TVL. [00:27:00] Contrarian Views: Willem shares his belief that Bitcoin requires a decentralized Layer 2, and why decentralized finance infrastructure will drive greater adoption of Bitcoin. [00:31:00] Final Thoughts: Willem provides a call to action for developers, users, and businesses interested in building on Bitcoin using Botanix and unlocking the potential of Layer 2 on Bitcoin. Connect https://www.botanixlabs.xyz/ https://twitter.com/BotanixLabs https://www.linkedin.com/company/botanix-labs https://www.linkedin.com/in/willemschroe https://twitter.com/WillemSchroe Disclaimer Nothing mentioned in this podcast is investment advice and please do your own research. Finally, it would mean a lot if you can leave a review of this podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and share this podcast with a friend.Be a guest on the podcast or contact us - https://www.web3pod.xyz/

Description In Episode 185 of Web3 with Sam Kamani, I interview Edan Yago, co-founder of BitcoinOS. Edan shares insights into the evolution of Bitcoin, discussing how BitcoinOS is unlocking the ability to build anything on Bitcoin—from smart contracts and programmable tokens to decentralized compute and private transactions. We delve into the technical advancements that have paved the way for innovation on Bitcoin, the significance of Taproot and Ordinals, and how BitcoinOS allows for building sophisticated applications on Bitcoin, creating a full economy on the blockchain. This episode is perfect for anyone passionate about the future of Bitcoin, understanding the macroeconomic implications, and learning about the technical tools pushing Bitcoin to the next level. Key Timestamps [00:00:00] Introduction: Sam introduces Edan Yago, co-founder of Bitcoin OS, a project focused on expanding the capabilities of Bitcoin beyond just store of value. [00:01:30] Bitcoin’s Past and Future: Edan explains the current state of Bitcoin and what’s changed to allow a surge in innovation and development on Bitcoin. [00:04:00] Introducing Bitcoin OS: Edan describes what Bitcoin OS is, how it works, and how it opens Bitcoin to smart contracts and programmable tokens. [00:07:00] The Rise and Challenges of Lightning Network: Edan talks about the limitations of Lightning Network and how other innovations are now unlocking Bitcoin’s potential. [00:12:00] Bitcoin OS as a Universal Compiler: How Bitcoin OS acts as a universal compiler, turning Bitcoin into a smart contract system while maintaining Bitcoin’s security. [00:14:00] Use Cases on Bitcoin OS: Examples of what’s possible with Bitcoin OS, including trustless BTC bridges, programmable tokens, and private transactions. [00:19:00] Technical and Cultural Challenges: Edan shares the technical and cultural challenges faced in building on Bitcoin, including skepticism from the Bitcoin community. [00:22:00] Bitcoin’s Place in the Global Economy: Why Bitcoin’s role as a high-value asset and the creation of a Bitcoin economy is more important than its use for payments. [00:31:00] The Future of Bitcoin: Edan discusses how Bitcoin OS will expand Bitcoin’s role in long-term financial planning, mortgages, and large investments. [00:35:00] Trends and Innovation at Token2049: Insights from the Token2049 conference, including Bitcoin innovations and the rise of activity outside the Western world. [00:39:00] Bitcoin OS Growth and Call to Action: Edan shares what Bitcoin OS is looking for in terms of talent and collaboration as they expand. Connect http://bitcoinos.build/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/bitcoinos https://x.com/BTC_OS https://www.linkedin.com/in/edanyago/ ⁠h⁠⁠ttps://x.com/edanyago⁠⁠ Disclaimer Nothing mentioned in this podcast is investment advice and please do your own research. Finally, it would mean a lot if you can leave a review of this podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and share this podcast with a friend.Be a guest on the podcast or contact us - https://www.web3pod.xyz/

In Episode 184 of Web3 with Sam Kamani, I sit down with Jens, co-founder of Kairon Labs, a leading market maker specializing in token liquidity provision and launch strategies. Jens shares his experience on how Kairon Labs helps projects with successful TGEs (Token Generation Events), provides liquidity, and offers strategic advice for projects entering the market. This episode was recorded live at Token2049 in Marina Bay Sands, where the energy and enthusiasm for Web3 innovation is palpable. We dive into key industry trends, the challenges of launching tokens, and what sets Kairon Labs apart from competitors. Jens also provides his insights on the meme coin surge, the concentration of liquidity in major assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum, and his contrarian view on the need for projects to delay launches until they are fully ready. Key Timestamps [00:00:00] Introduction: Sam introduces Jens from Kairon Labs, highlighting their expertise in market making, liquidity provision, and advising Web3 projects. The episode was recorded live at Token2049 in Singapore. [00:01:00] How Kairon Labs Helps: Jens explains how Kairon Labs supports projects through their TGEs, offering advice, liquidity, and network connections to ensure a successful launch. [00:03:00] Competitive Edge: Why choose Kairon Labs over other market makers? Jens talks about their personalized approach, flexible models, and deep industry expertise. [00:06:00] Industry Trends: Jens shares insights on current market trends, including the rise of new projects, increasing efficiency in the trading space, and the challenges of getting listed on top-tier exchanges. [00:09:00] The Biggest Challenge: Jens discusses the issue of impatience in the crypto space and how projects need more time to mature before launching tokens. [00:11:00] Kairon Labs’ Growth and Hiring: Jens talks about the organic, self-funded growth of Kairon Labs and their need for talented traders, developers, and business developers. [00:13:00] Meme Coins and Alt Coins: Jens provides his perspective on the rise of meme coins and how these projects keep the market busy during bear cycles. [00:15:00] Liquidity Concentration: Jens discusses the concentration of liquidity in Bitcoin and Ethereum, and how this trend might shift as the market enters a more bullish phase. [00:16:00] Contrarian View: Jens shares his controversial opinion that many projects rush to market before they are ready, and why they should take more time before launching tokens. [00:17:00] Closing Thoughts: Jens offers advice to token projects and invites listeners to explore opportunities at Kairon Labs, especially if they are looking for a talented team to help them launch. Connect https://kaironlabs.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/kairon-labs/ https://x.com/KaironLabs https://www.linkedin.com/in/jens-willemen-2bb09a71/ Disclaimer Nothing mentioned in this podcast is investment advice and please do your own research. Finally, it would mean a lot if you can leave a review of this podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and share this podcast with a friend.Be a guest on the podcast or contact us - https://www.web3pod.xyz/

In Episode 183 of Web3 with Sam Kamani, I sit down with Konstantin, co-founder of Paybis, a leading platform for crypto on-ramps, off-ramps, and B2B solutions. This episode, recorded live at Token2049 in Singapore, dives into the evolution of Paybis from a retail-focused platform to a B2B powerhouse, offering white-label crypto solutions for businesses across the globe. Konstantin shares insights on how Paybis is solving critical pain points in crypto adoption, including the ability to easily buy, sell, and pay with crypto. He also explains the platform’s five core B2B products: On-Ramps, Corporate On-Off-Ramps, Wallet-as-a-Service, Crypto Processing, and Mass Payouts. Whether you’re building a Web3 platform, a traditional business interested in accepting crypto payments, or a startup looking for efficient payment solutions, this episode is packed with valuable insights on how Paybis can help you scale. Key Timestamps [00:00:00] Introduction: Sam introduces Konstantin, co-founder of Paybis, a premium crypto on-ramp and off-ramp platform, recorded live at Token2049 in Singapore. [00:01:00] The Birth of Paybis: Konstantin shares the origin story of Paybis, starting in 2013 to make buying Bitcoin easier for the average person. [00:03:00] From B2C to B2B: Paybis' shift from serving retail customers to offering white-label solutions for businesses, and the importance of scaling with B2B partnerships. [00:08:00] The On-Ramp Solution: Konstantin explains how Paybis helps businesses integrate seamless crypto buying and selling features into their apps or websites. [00:10:00] Corporate On-Off Ramp: Paybis’ new product for businesses, enabling easy crypto transactions for institutional clients with quick KYB verification. [00:12:00] Wallet-as-a-Service: Konstantin describes how Paybis is offering white-label crypto wallets with integrated buy and sell features, allowing businesses to retain customers within their ecosystem. [00:18:00] Crypto Processing: Paybis provides an API for companies to accept crypto payments, convert them into stablecoins, and handle payouts to wallets or bank accounts. [00:22:00] Mass Payouts in Crypto: Paybis’ solution for automating crypto payroll and mass payments, allowing companies to make crypto payouts at scale. [00:29:00] Challenges in Scaling Paybis: Konstantin discusses the key challenges Paybis faces, including building multiple products simultaneously and increasing brand awareness. [00:33:00] The Next Steps: Konstantin hints at potential fundraising to accelerate product development and bring Paybis' solutions to a wider audience. [00:35:00] Closing Thoughts: Konstantin calls for partnerships with Web3 and Web2 companies to integrate Paybis’ solutions and grow the crypto ecosystem. Connect https://paybis.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/paybis/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/konstantinvasilenko https://x.com/paybis Disclaimer Nothing mentioned in this podcast is investment advice and please do your own research. Finally, it would mean a lot if you can leave a review of this podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and share this podcast with a friend.Be a guest on the podcast or contact us - https://www.web3pod.xyz/

In Episode 182 of Web3 with Sam Kamani, I speak with Gentleman James, founder of iYield, a revolutionary platform designed to simplify portfolio management by combining all your crypto and fiat assets into a single, easy-to-use dashboard. With iYield, users can automatically track their crypto yields, DeFi earnings, and overall net worth, eliminating the need for manual spreadsheets. Gentleman James shares his journey from discovering Bitcoin in 2012 to creating iYield and offers insights into the future of DeFi, portfolio automation, and how new technologies like restaking are shaping the industry. Key Timestamps [00:00:00] Introduction: Sam introduces Gentleman James from iYield and the value the platform provides for portfolio management across both fiat and crypto. [00:01:00] James’ Background: Gentleman James talks about how he discovered Bitcoin in 2012 while living in Thailand and how it led him to build iYield to solve his own crypto portfolio management issues. [00:04:00] Managing Crypto Yields: James explains the complexities of tracking different crypto yields from multiple protocols and how iYield simplifies the process by pulling on-chain data and API information. [00:07:00] Technical Details & Monetization: James describes how iYield collects data and explains the free access model for users with an optional pro version for advanced features. [00:11:00] Evolution of DeFi: Sam and James discuss how DeFi has changed, the growth of Ethereum-based yields, and how decentralized finance has moved from experimental to more stable, trustable systems. [00:18:00] Portfolio Automation and Vaults: James shares his excitement about the future of automated DeFi positions and how vaults will evolve to give users more customization and flexibility. [00:22:00] Bitcoin and DeFi: Sam and James discuss the growing trend of Bitcoin staking and restaking, and the pros and cons of DeFi products that leverage Bitcoin. [00:24:00] Future of DeFi: James talks about the rise of automation, vault optimization, and why he believes restaking will become a foundational part of the DeFi ecosystem. [00:28:00] What’s Next for iYield: James highlights upcoming features like net worth projections and additional protocol support as iYield continues to expand. [00:33:00] Closing Thoughts: James invites listeners to try iYield and experience the benefits of automatic portfolio tracking for themselves. Connect https://iyield.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/iyield-crypto/ https://twitter.com/iYieldCrypto https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamescanningwin/ https://x.com/gentlemanjamesw Disclaimer Nothing mentioned in this podcast is investment advice and please do your own research. Finally, it would mean a lot if you can leave a review of this podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and share this podcast with a friend.Be a guest on the podcast or contact us - https://www.web3pod.xyz/

In Episode 181 of Web3 with Sam Kamani, I chat with Nikita Ovchinnik, co-founder of BarterSwap, an intent-based exchange engine using on-chain peer-to-peer matching technology. BarterSwap has completed over 450,000 trades, totaling more than $3 billion in volume, while saving users over $1 million. Nikita shares insights into how BarterSwap’s technology is making decentralized finance (DeFi) more efficient and transparent. We also dive into the future of DeFi, the role of solvers, and the challenges of liquidity fragmentation in the market. Key Timestamps: [00:00:00] Introduction: Sam introduces Nikita Ovchinnik from BarterSwap and highlights the incredible transaction volume and savings their platform has generated for users. [00:01:00] Nikita’s Journey into Web3: Nikita explains how he got involved in the world of blockchain, starting in 2017 with Ethereum and working at OneInch before founding BarterSwap. [00:03:00] The Problem BarterSwap Solves: Nikita shares how BarterSwap addresses liquidity fragmentation and improves the user experience with its intent-based DeFi engine. [00:07:00] Evolution of DeFi: Sam and Nikita discuss the evolution of decentralized finance since 2017, including the role of stablecoins and automated market makers (AMMs). [00:11:00] How BarterSwap Works: Nikita explains the mechanics behind BarterSwap’s peer-to-peer intent matching system and how it saves users money by providing more efficient swaps. [00:17:00] Challenges in DeFi: Nikita highlights some technical challenges around MEV (miner extractable value) and how BarterSwap is working to make swaps and transactions more transparent and fair. [00:19:00] Trends in DeFi: Nikita talks about trends such as liquidity fragmentation, intent-based systems, and the rise of solvers in decentralized trading. [00:23:00] Future of DeFi: Nikita shares his thoughts on the future of the DeFi ecosystem, including how block builders and MEV extraction are reshaping the space. [00:29:00] Building Barter: Sam and Nikita discuss the roadmap for BarterSwap and what the team is focusing on in the next 6 to 12 months to strengthen the platform. Connect https://barterswap.xyz/ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/barterdefi/⁠ https://x.com/BarterDeFi ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikita-ovchinnik/⁠ ⁠https://x.com/NovaOvchinnik⁠ Disclaimer Nothing mentioned in this podcast is investment advice and please do your own research. Finally, it would mean a lot if you can leave a review of this podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and share this podcast with a friend.Be a guest on the podcast or contact us - https://www.web3pod.xyz/