SEC have played their last card after suing Binance and Coinbase together. It is a card the crypto world has been waiting for them to play and they just used it. This means that manipulating the market won't be easy for them again. 

Binance and Coinbase are the leading Cryptocurrency exchanges, this is why the lawsuit against them was able to bring the market down. Now that these giant cryptocurrency exchanges have been sued, if the crypto world recovers, it can't be brought down again this much with the news of lawsuits on them. The present lawsuit has already contained all the possible suits that the SEC can come up with. The crypto market can only dip again if the SEC records a significant win over them. 

Conversely, a win from these two exchanges will motivate investors and shut the market up.  This doesn't mean we can't see fresh lawsuits from the SEC on other exchanges and projects, but the impact of the lawsuit won't be felt much. There can't be any upcoming lawsuit that can be compared to the present lawsuit on Binance and Coinbase. 

Again, other exchanges such as Robinhood have started taking precautionary measures. This means that the SEC will have a hard time seeing loopholes that they can leverage. 

The present case may linger on for some months or even years just like the SEC versus Ripple case but it is a matter of time before the crypto world gets back on track. 

So, do not lose hope in this decentralized crypto world. Remain focussed, and buy the dip of tokens that have use cases. The war is almost won. We just need to stick together and there will surely be light at the end of the tunnel. 

Share your views in the comment if you think otherwise or agree with my thoughts. 

#SEC #Binance

I've come across many trade signal groups on social media platforms like Telegram and Twitter. Some of these groups ask for registration fees, which can be quite high. I don't want to discourage you from seeking trade signals, but I want to bring some important facts to your attention.

1. Cryptocurrency trading, especially futures trading, is uncertain and highly volatile. Traders use technical analysis and other tools to try and predict how the market might move. Sometimes they get it right, but sometimes they don't.

What does this mean?

In math, if you have an equation to solve and you know the variables and the final answer, you can use the right tools (formulas) to get the correct answer. But in trading, variables like crypto news, trading volume, and market direction are unknown. It's like solving an equation without a definite answer. The outcome depends on what happens during the day. If more people predict a certain direction, the trade favors them. Otherwise, it goes the other way.

2. There are some traders called "whales" who have their trading groups. They keep an eye on public signals and wait for others to enter a trade. Once it's clear that these traders are trying to make a profit, the whales jump in and go against them, making money when those traders lose. Since whales have a lot of money, when the trade starts going against small traders, they panic and cut their losses, which helps the whales make even more profit.

3. Some signals are given by people who don't trade in the same direction. Not everyone giving signals is trustworthy.

In the end, the best thing to do is to study the market yourself and trade based on your analysis. Technical analysis and other tools don't guarantee success. A trade that seems to be going well can suddenly turn bad, so it's important to know when to take profits. Using high leverage can increase your profits, but it can also lead to big losses. It's better to use lower leverage and have a good amount of capital.

Remember, the cryptocurrency market can't be predicted with certainty, so don't rely too much on analysis.

Until next time, stay safe. Digital Joseph cares!

Writer's block, that dreaded adversary haunting the corridors of creativity, often leaves writers grappling with the seemingly insurmountable challenge of an empty page. It has been a big challenge for most writers, especially those who earn money from writing. Some of these writers will prefer not to write rather than paste someone's work or write content that won't reflect their style and worth. In this blog, we will look into writer's block, its major causes, and strategies that will aid anyone who often finds himself in this hole. Understanding the Causes:Perfectionism:Many writers find themselves in this hole of writer's block due to their relentless pursuit of perfection. The desire for flawlessness can paralyze writers, leading to self-doubt and hesitation to start when the urge to write arises. Overcoming this hurdle requires a shift in mindset – embracing imperfection as an integral part of the creative process. One thing we have to bear in mind is that there aren't any perfect writers and those writers who we hold in high esteem were once average writers who built themselves through continuous writing. They worked towards getting each of their new content better than the previous way, and this got them where they are today. So, kill that perfectionism mindset and you won't struggle much with writer's block. Lack of Inspiration:The well of inspiration, at times, runs dry, leaving writers stranded in a desert of ideas. The fact is that there are lots of things around us to generate writing ideas from. What is that extraordinary thing that happened at work, school, market? Are there any lessons learned today? Do you have anything you wish to get opinions from? These are things you can draw inspiration from. If things are bothering you, you can either come out to write on it or use a third party to discuss it. You can also get inspiration by reading other people's content, especially content from your favorite niche. Overthinking:The analytical mind, while essential in refining work, can become a hindrance when overapplied. Constantly scrutinizing every word and sentence creates mental congestion. Sometimes it is ideal that you leave the content and engage in other activities, only to return to it at a later hour with a fresh mind. Ensure you don't try so much to refine your work to align with someone's writing style and tune. We are unique in our ways. Trying to sound like someone can hinder your writing progress because you may not have what it takes to be like that person. Be YOU. External Distractions:External factors, ranging from a noisy environment to personal issues, can disrupt the creative process. Recognizing and mitigating these distractions, whether through environmental adjustments or personal strategies, is essential for maintaining focus.Below are other tips that can help fight Writer's block. Breaking down writing goals into manageable tasks is a pragmatic approach. By establishing achievable writing goals, writers can navigate the writing process without feeling overwhelmed, thereby fostering a sense of accomplishment. There is no point in being strict with yourself under the rationale that you are pushing yourself to be better. Take this one step at a time and the sense of accomplishment will be your motivation. Consistency is the cornerstone of productivity. Crafting a writing routine that aligns with one's lifestyle helps build a writing habit.Stepping away from the content you are writing at strategic intervals provides mental rejuvenation. Brief breaks allow writers to return with a fresh perspective. Thank you for stopping by my blog today, I hope you have some takeaways from this piece. Feel free to ask questions in the comment section. #Write2Earn

We are seeing a glimpse of an upcoming bull market with the surge in price of some Cryptocurrency assets. We have seen developers coming out once more to build and lots of investors are funding some of these projects. Naturally, cryptocurrency enthusiasts are more keen on the upcoming crypto assets bull run because of the huge return on investment seen within this period. It is important to remind job seekers that the bull run usually comes with high job opportunities because there is enough money in circulation and projects can comfortably pay their workers. Those of us who work with projects can attest to the fact that some of the projects fired workers during the bear market because they did not have enough funds to keep them. Some saw their salary reduced by the project.  To benefit from the job opportunities coming up from the coming bull run, one needs to prepare himself very well. You need to tailor your CV and make it stand out among others. Projects want to see your experience because that's part of what will convince them that you can do the job. This is why I have always encouraged job seekers to resort to internships when there is no paying job available. Ensure you participate in crypto conferences both online and offline because it allows you to network with people. There are job opportunities that can come from your networks. Some of the people you meet might have gigs they have control of and would recommend you for immediate employment. Try to join Telegram groups where job opportunities are shared. There are many of them out there and they will help keep you updated with available positions. While a bull run may create more opportunities, competition can also be fierce. Be patient and persistent in your job search. Don't be discouraged by rejections; use feedback to improve and refine your approach.Remember, in a bull run, the job market is dynamic, and being proactive and strategic in your job search can significantly increase your chances of landing a position. May the odd favor us all as we await the bull run.  

Avalanche Subnets are customizable, configurable, application-specific blockchains within the Avalanche ecosystem that offer a unique set of advantages for applications. This article explores what Avalanche subnets are, their benefits, successful use cases, and how to create a local subnet. Avalanche subnets are critical to decentralized application (Dapp) success because they empower anyone to build custom blockchain networks tailored to the needs of users.A Subnet is a dynamic subset of Avalanche validators that work together to achieve consensus on the state of one or more blockchains. It is a subnetwork within the greater Avalanche network that defines its own rules and can be tailored to specific user needs. Subnets are highly flexible and customizable, allowing developers to configure features such as choosing which token pays for fees, which validates network activity, and which virtual machine facilitates operations.The benefits of Avalanche Subnets include improved user experience, reduced development costs, and time for builders, customized tokenomics and rules, the ability to establish private subnets, and scalability. Developers can create a subnet where only certain pre-defined validators may join, creating a private subnet with content accessible only to those validators. This is ideal for organizations interested in limiting their information to a specific audience or adhering to a set of compliance standards.Several successful use cases demonstrate the value of Avalanche Subnets. For example, Defi Kingdoms’ Crystalvale Subnet alone averages more daily transactions than all of Polygon, while Dexalot is building its Avalanche Subnet to bring a better decentralized trading experience to its users, enabling users to safely and efficiently trade cryptocurrencies using a central limit order book exchange without slippage or custodial risk.To create a local subnet, one must set up an Avalanche node, configure the node to connect to a subnet, and then create a subnet with its unique subnet ID, creating a customized blockchain network.Institutions are building the future with Avalanche because Avalanche Consensus and Subnets have the speed, security, reliability, flexibility, and scaling to power institutional Web3 apps serving millions of users. Avalanche is now or will soon be the foundation for institutional Web3 projects in fields including finance, insurance, payments, vehicles, entertainment, culture, and many more.In conclusion, Avalanche Subnets are critical to Dapp's success because they provide a pathway to a natural and seamless Web3 experience needed for widespread adoption. Subnets offer unique advantages for applications and developers, making it easy and affordable to tailor blockchain networks to the needs of users. The scalability and customization of subnets make them attractive to institutions looking to build their dream Web3 projects. Avalanche subnets are a promising solution for the growing demand for purpose-built services and features in the blockchain space.#AVAX

Blockchain has not only revolutionized financial systems but has also created promising career opportunities for blockchain enthusiasts. The rise of remote jobs in the blockchain and web3 industries has significantly contributed to greater financial inclusion, especially for individuals in lower-tier countries. This is due to the ability to receive payments in stronger currencies, allowing them to maximize their earnings when converted to their local currency.Before now, the Cryptocurrency world was more of a man's world, few ladies were part of the Blockchain world, and fewer of these ladies had tech skills that could land them Crypto/web3 jobs. Today, we have seen a considerable increase in women's participation in the Blockchain world. Some women have gone the extra mile to build projects and communities, and in onboarding new people, especially their fellow women. The current state of jobs in the Blockchain space gives equal opportunities to both genders. There are male and female developers, community managers, product managers, brand representatives, etc, and the presence of this equal opportunity has further helped pave the way for adoption. Furthermore, there are certain privileges specifically available to women, such as free tech skill acquisition programs. These programs aim to motivate and empower women to become active contributors to the web3 ecosystem. Naturally, women with the right skills have an excellent chance of securing jobs open to both genders, with some roles, like marketing, favoring women due to their ability to create a more comfortable and trustworthy environment, particularly in light of the predominantly male presence in cybercrime.Most hiring managers, especially men, are more keen on female applicants. There is a higher chance for a female developer applicant to land a developer job than a male applicant, if the female applicant has the needed skills and experience. The reason is that efforts are being made towards getting women into Web3 and Blockchain. This does not imply that women now have the upper hand when it comes to securing Web3 Jobs. It only shows that efforts are being put in place to push women out of their shells, to compete with men for Web3 and Blockchain-related jobs. So, I urge every Lady out there to acquire any tech skill that appeals to her. Do not be discouraged or believe that web3 and Blockchain are guys' things. This innovative world of Web3 and Blockchain is for all. Just acquire the right skills and experience and you will achieve your dream job. #crypto

The Cryptocurrency market is continuously innovated to accommodate and satisfy the needs of the users, especially in the aspect of putting one's assets to work. New and innovative ways to earn rewards and grow your assets are constantly emerging. The existing ways are also modified to offer better opportunities. In today's Blog, we will look into Liquid Staking and understand how we can maximize our profit using it. What is Liquid Staking?Traditionally, Staking can be seen as the process of participating in a blockchain network by locking up your tokens and earning rewards from it. With the coming of the Proof Of Stake ( POS) Consensus mechanism, Staking Can also be seen as the process of participating in a blockchain network by locking up your tokens to help secure the network and validate transactions. In return, stakers receive rewards, typically in the form of additional tokens. Liquid staking takes this concept to the next level by allowing you to stake your tokens while keeping them readily tradable and transferable.Traditional staking usually involves a lock-up period during which your tokens are inaccessible. Liquid Staking platforms, on the other hand, provide you with staked tokens that are represented as liquid tokens (e.g., staked ETH becomes stETH). These liquidity tokens can be traded or used in DeFi (Decentralized Finance) applications, such as providing Liquidity in decentralized exchanges, lending, borrowing, etc. This offers flexibility and more earning opportunities (dual rewards). Why should I participate in Liquid Staking:Liquidity: As the name suggests, one of the primary advantages of liquid staking is the ability to maintain liquidity. You can access your staked tokens at any time, which is not possible with traditional staking. Having this privilege helps one to be able to exit the market during unfavorable events. For example, I remember staking my $JUNO before the major network issue the network had, that led to a huge decline in the price of the token and the number of investors. Because there is an unbonding period of 21 days ( the time it takes from the point you unstake your tokens to the point your tokens become available to you), I wasn't able to exit the market ( sell off my tokens ) early because the tokens were locked.  If the $JUNO were Liquid staked, selling off the tokens would be a click away. Maximized Earnings: Liquid staking platforms often compound your staking rewards, leading to potentially higher returns compared to traditional staking.For example, in the traditional staking process, the investor receives his staking reward which can be claimed immediately. This means that his rewards may not likely increase if the deposited amount is kept constant. With Liquid Staking, the rewards are compounded, that is, they are added to the initial deposited amount. This increases the staking rewards with each passing day. 3. Participation in DeFi: Since a staker receives a receipt of the staked tokens, the staker can engage in various DeFi activities like yield farming, lending, and borrowing, further increasing his earnings. The good thing is that there are several platforms and decentralized exchanges where Liquid Staking services are offered. You can also move your stTokens from one Blockchain to another either to enjoy higher liquidity or for scalability's sake. 4. Risk Mitigation: As explained above, Liquid staking can provide a level of risk mitigation as you can react to market conditions and price movements by moving your funds as needed. This is one of the major edge Liquid Staking has over native staking. Getting Started with Liquid Staking:1. Select a Liquid Staking Platform: Choose a platform that offers liquid staking services. Some popular choices include Lido Finance (which Supports Polygon, Ethereum, and Solana), Stride (which supports Cosmos network), BENQI ( Avalanche), etc, each supporting various cryptocurrencies.2. Know The Compatible Wallet:You'll need a compatible wallet to interact with the chosen platform. For example, Metamask and Core Wallet can be used in Lido Finance and BENQI, but using the Stride platform requires using a Cosmos network-compatible wallet such as the Keplr wallet and Leap Wallet. Ensure you have the required assets to stake, and in some occasions, the asset for the gas fee. In some platforms, the asset for the gas fee is either the native token on which the platform itself was built or the native token of the platform itself. For example, In Stride which is built on the Cosmos network, the gas fee is paid with $STRD, This means that if you want to Liquid Stake Cosmos ( $ATOM ) you will need both $ATOM which will be staked, and then, $STRD for fees.3. Stake Your Tokens: Follow the platform's instructions to stake your tokens. Most of the Liquid Staking Platforms have a user guide tutorial. In return, you'll receive liquidity tokens that represent your staked assets ( stToken, e.g sthETH) 4. With your liquidity tokens in hand, you can start participating in various DeFi products. If you are conversant with managing impermanent loss, you can provide Liquidity with the Liquid token. You can also Lend them out. Keep an eye on your staking rewards.While liquid staking offers many benefits, it's important to be aware of potential risks. Market fluctuations can affect the value of your liquidity tokens as it is with every other token, and platform vulnerabilities could expose you to smart contract risks. Remember, when you interact with Smart Contract, you give them the exclusive right to spend your tokens. I always revoke permission after interacting with a Smart contract. Always do your research and use secure platforms with a proven track record.Secondly, you can maximize the opportunity in Liquid Staking only when you employ your Liquid tokens in any DEFI product ( lending, providing Liquidity, etc). This will allow you to earn dual rewards. In conclusion, liquid staking is an advancement from native staking to Staking that allows you to earn dual rewards while maintaining flexibility and liquidity. Remember to assess risks, and make informed decisions as you embark on your liquid staking journey.#NFA✅

Images gotten on freepik, edited using InshotPFP NFTs, or Profile Picture Non-Fungible Tokens, are unique digital assets that represent ownership of a specific profile picture. They've gained popularity as a way for individuals to showcase their ownership of a particular image online, often with a strong sense of community and exclusivity. PFP NFTs are typically bought, sold, and traded on blockchain platforms.But where did it all begin?The concept of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) itself traces its roots to blockchain technology, primarily Ethereum. NFTs represent ownership of digital assets, and the idea gained traction around 2017. However, it wasn't until a few years later that PFP NFTs emerged as a distinctive niche within the NFT ecosystem.The use case of PFP NFTs revolves around the idea of owning a unique, often pixelated, digital character or avatar. These avatars serve as profile pictures on various online platforms, from social media to virtual worlds. What makes them truly special is their scarcity and uniqueness, making them coveted digital collectibles.Image [source](https://cryptopunks.app/)One of the pioneering projects that popularized PFP NFTs was CryptoPunks, created by Larva Labs in 2017. These 10,000 algorithmically generated 24x24 pixel art characters became the precursors to the broader PFP NFT movement. Each CryptoPunk is distinct and has its rarity, contributing to its appeal among collectors and enthusiasts.Since CryptoPunks, countless other PFP NFT projects have sprung up, each with its unique twist and style. From Bored Ape Yacht Club to Meebits, the PFP NFT space has exploded with creativity, community engagement, and skyrocketing valuations.The use cases for PFP NFTs are diverse. They serve as a digital identity marker, allowing users to display their support for a project, community, or cause. PFP NFTs can also be used for access to exclusive content, events, or privileges within a community. Additionally, these tokens can hold sentimental value, as they represent a unique form of self-expression and a way to stand out in a digital space. Their value most times depends on their rarity. I remember one CryptoPunk NFT that sold for 7500 ETH which is above $11 million. However, factors are limiting the full application of PFP NFT use cases. 1. Since PFP NFTs are often displayed openly on the internet, there's a risk of unauthorized copying and distribution of the images, potentially undermining their exclusivity and value. Maybe in the future, there can be a way to take piracy violation actions but for now, the state of things allows for unauthorized usage. 2. Many PFP NFT projects are built on the Ethereum blockchain, which can suffer from scalability issues and high gas fees during periods of high demand. Ethereum has indeed migrated to the Proof Of Stake (POS) consensus mechanism but the desired scalability is not yet there. Of course, there is an improvement. This scalability challenge can make minting, trading, and interacting with PFP NFTs costly and inconvenient.3. The exclusivity and cost associated with owning rare PFP NFTs can limit broader adoption. High prices can make them inaccessible to many potential users, creating a barrier to entry. For example, the lowest rare Bored Ape NFT goes above 5 ETH. This is approximately $7000 which is quite high for most Blockchain enthusiasts.4. The success of many PFP NFT projects relies on building strong and engaged communities around the avatars. Maintaining and growing these communities can be challenging and require ongoing effort and innovation.For example, there are many NFT projects on WAX Blockchain with PFP NFTs. Their PFP NFT sells for as low as $5. Most of them are struggling because they have not gotten the right audience that can create the needed hype. 5. Many PFP NFTs are tied to specific platforms or ecosystems. This dependence can limit their utility and interoperability across different virtual worlds or social media platforms. For example, PFP NFTs on Ethereum are valued more by most collectors. Some of these PFP NFTs are only available in one Blockchain. This has created a divide among other collectors who are lovers of Blockchains other than the one where the PFP NFT is listed. Interoperability is thus something that will help PFP NFT use cases to be fully utilized. 6. Just like the Cryptocurrency world is getting attacked continuously by regulators, the regulatory environment for NFTs is evolving, and changes in regulations could impact the use and trading of PFP NFTs. Uncertainty in this regard can deter potential users and investors.Despite these limitations, PFP NFTs continue to evolve, and projects are actively addressing some of these challenges. As the NFT space matures, solutions and innovations will likely emerge to make PFP NFTs more accessible, practical, and sustainable for a broader range of users.

A Zero Knowledge Credential (ZKCreds),  is a cryptographic protocol that allows one party (the prover) to prove to another party (the verifier) that they possess certain information or knowledge without revealing the actual information itself. The term "zero knowledge" refers to the fact that the verifier gains no additional knowledge other than the fact that the prover possesses the necessary credentials.In traditional authentication or verification processes, the prover typically needs to reveal sensitive information, such as a password or private key, to the verifier to prove their identity or knowledge. This can be risky, as it exposes sensitive information, making it susceptible to theft or misuse if intercepted by malicious actors.Zero Knowledge Credentials, however, use complex cryptographic techniques to achieve a higher level of privacy and security. The protocol allows the prover to demonstrate knowledge of the necessary credentials in a way that convinces the verifier without revealing any specific details about those credentials. Can Zero Knowledge Credentials Improve Data Authentication In Africa? Zero Knowledge Credentials (ZKCs) have the potential to significantly improve data authentication in Africa, just as they can elsewhere. Here's how:Reduced Identity TheftZKCs can enable secure digital identities. By proving you possess specific credentials without revealing them, it becomes much harder for cybercriminals to steal your identity. Over the years, many people have fallen victim to bank fraud because personal data like name, address, phone numbers, etc. were compromised when there was a data breach within the institution that has these data. It was thus easier for the scammer to attack an individual because he has the tools he needs for this.Imagine receiving a call from someone who claims to be customer support from your bank. At first, you may not feel secure about the call but by the time the caller gives your full name, date of birth, and address, there are chances that one will believe the legitimacy of the call. In this case, if one is not careful, he may release sensitive data which can lead to being scammed. With zero knowledge credentials in use in institutions, when the data center of such an institution is hacked, the hacker will have limited information. For example, he would only know you are a certain age-old but won't know your exact date of birth, he would know that you live in a certain avenue without knowing your exact house address. This way, he has limited information and the probability of scamming you with them is slim. Efficient Verification: In Africa, where many services require identity verification, ZKCs can streamline the process. Instead of repeatedly providing sensitive information, individuals can use ZKCs for quick and secure verification.For example in Nigeria, one has to do a fresh KYC with each bank he wants to bank with. ZKCs can streamline the process, making it faster, secure, and privacy-preserving.It will take this form; a user receives a zero-knowledge credential from a trusted issuer. He verifies himself in Bank A, B, and C with that single credential by just sharing that credential with the banks. This is called reusable KYC, and it makes data verification faster, more secure, and privacy-preserving. Cross-Border Transactions: Africa has a diverse and often fragmented landscape. Some Africans may not be comfortable sharing their data with any financial institutions in another country because of fear of data breaches. ZKCs can simplify cross-border transactions and document verification by providing trust without revealing excessive personal information. Government Services: ZKCs can enhance government services. For instance, When the government wants to give out palliatives to its citizens. Sometimes, they are required to submit some personal information that can prove their citizenship and eligibility. Citizens can prove eligibility for these benefits without disclosing unnecessary personal data. This will help in reducing fraud and protecting privacy because sometimes, this information is sold to bad players which are thus used to scam the citizens. However, it's important to note that implementing ZKCs requires robust technology infrastructure, education, and awareness among the population. We can only hope for African countries to see the benefits of it. Some countries that have accepted Blockchain Tech are already moving into ZKCs and Self-sovereign identity.How can Zero Knowledge Credential Be Used For Authentication?Imagine you have a secret password, but you don't want to tell anyone your actual password because it's a secret. However, you still need to prove to a website or app that you know your password to log in. This is where Zero Knowledge Credentials come in.1. Secret Key:   - You have a secret key (like your password), but you want to keep it a secret.2. Registration:   - When you first create your account, you tell the website, "Hey, I have a secret key," but you don't say what it is.   - The website wants to make sure you're not lying, so you both do a special secret dance (mathematical calculations) to prove that you have the secret key without revealing it.   3. Authentication:   - Now, when you want to log in, you don't need to type your secret key again.   - Instead, you do that special secret dance again to show the website that you still have your secret key.( a zero-knowledge proof where the user demonstrates they have the private key without disclosing its value.)   - But, just like before, you don't actually reveal your secret key.4. Checking:   - The website checks the secret dance you did. If it looks correct, they let you in. But they still don't know your secret key.5. Using the Website:   - Once you're in, you can use the website like normal because they trust that you have the secret key.Why ZKCs are Cool:- Privacy: You never have to tell the website your secret key, so it stays super secret.- Safety: Even if the website gets hacked, your secret key is safe because it was never shared.- Easy to Use: It's like doing a secret handshake with the website, so it's pretty easy for you.- Stopping Bad Guys: If someone else tries to pretend to be you, they can't do the secret dance because they don't know your secret key.ZKCs are like a way to prove who you are without giving away your big secret, like magic!

[Source](https://www.freepik.com/search?format=search&page=2&query=Defi)Blockchain technology has come to be an abode for financial breakthroughs for most Crypto enthusiasts, especially those who have delved into the world of Decentralized Finance (DEFI). The amazing thing about the financial opportunities within the DEFI World is the decentralized nature of the system. The power to have full control of one's funds is not only relaxing but also gives a sense of security. We are relaxed about putting a huge amount of money into a smart contract because we know that the funds are secured to an extent and we have the power to decide when to pull out. Nevertheless, even though the DEFI world is very rewarding, certain risks abound. It is thus important that newbies particularly, Africans are abreast of these risks before they join the ever-evolving train of DEFI. So without further ado, here are three things one needs to know before joining the DEFI train. 1. The two-edged sword that is called Smart Contracts. Decentralized Finance exists because of the presence of Smart Contracts, and Blockchain Tech which provides the building environment for the SmartContract. Cryptographically, and in Simpler terms, Smart contracts are self-executing contracts that automate the execution of an agreement. This way, all participants can be immediately certain of the outcome, without any intermediary’s involvement. When we interact with Smart Contracts, we give them the right to spend our funds. This is why we are prompted to approve smart contract calls before the first transaction is executed, and in each transaction, as the case may be. Now, this permission given to Smart Contracts can be limited or unlimited as the case may be. The rule as to whether the permission is limited or not is imposed by the Smart contract creator. So, what am I trying to say? Before you delve into the world of DEFI, it is expected that you should be aware of the above information, especially the permission given to Smart Contract upon interaction. When you are aware that by interacting with Smart Contract you give it full access to your funds, it will prompt you to choose carefully where you connect your wallet. Again, it will also prompt you to source the tools that can be used for a successful journey in the Defi world. 2. The reward you earn is a function of your capital and the length of time you invested your capital. In the Defi system, there is what is called APR (Annual Percentage Return) and APY (Annual Percentage Yield). The core difference between APY and APR lies in the compounding interest rate. The former (APY) takes compounding interest into account while APR does not. This is important because it will help you formulate the right decision, on the right Defi product to join, with your available capital. Most times, people go for products with high APR to maximize their return, however, experience has shown that products with high APR come with high risks simultaneously. Most times, the high APR drops when more people join the pool, so it is important to know this and know when to pull out. 3. There are Risks in Every DEFI Product. DEFI products like Naked Staking, Providing Liquidity on DEX (LPing), Liquid Staking, lending and borrowing, etc. are two-edged swords. For example, LPing might come with a huge APR but there is a risk called Impermanent loss that abounds. A post will be dedicated to impermanent loss that will explain what it is, and how to tackle it. Naked staking locks the tokens for a certain period and the tokens won't be accessible to the stakers within that period. However, there are flexible naked staking common on CEX where one can pull out at any point. Lending and borrowing can be affected by Flash loans. Amidst these risks, the merit therein is huge. The essence of spelling out the risks is to inform newbies of these risks to prepare their minds for them. I am a Defi enthusiast and I know how much I earn each month from all the Defi products I invested in. I also know how much I have earned from Airdrops from using some DEFI products, especially those in the Cosmos network. In Conclusion, the DEFI world is ever-evolving with several rewarding opportunities and risks. One therefore needs to equip oneself with the right knowledge before joining this train. #crypto2023

Blockchain Technology has many applications in almost all aspects of life. Its security, scalability, privacy-preserving, interoperability, and other features are all part of what makes it ideal for most use cases. The Healthcare sector can leverage Blockchain technology and improve its operation and efficiency, especially in the area of data management and education. In this blog, We will explore various ways through which Blockchain can improve the healthcare sector. Decentralized Health RecordsPrivacy and accessibility of healthcare records are a big challenge in the sector. Patients do not have full control over their health records, sometimes, their health challenges are exposed to nonprofessionals and unskilled laborers. In most African countries, getting data from the health sector for research purposes is usually very challenging due to poor record-keeping. With Blockchain Technology, some of these challenges can be averted. A decentralized health record system can give citizens full control over their health records. The record won't be accessed without their permission thereby promoting privacy. Accessing data like numbers of Malaria victims in the last 6 months, the mortality rate within a time frame, etc for research purposes will be easier, and the data more accurate compared to the manually recorded data which are sometimes inflated to accommodate the lack of a central database. Smart Contracts for InsuranceOver the years, in developing continents like Africa, the health Insurance sector hasn't been offering the best service. There is a lack of transparency and poor accessibility of their service. Most of the insurance firms are situated only in developed cities. There have been many cases of insurance claim denial.Implementing smart contracts for decentralized health insurance, can automate claims processing and reduce administrative overhead, leading to more affordable and accessible coverage.Citizens will have faith in the system which will be a win-win situation. Telemedicine on the BlockchainTelemedicine is a healthcare practice that involves providing medical services, diagnosis, consultations, and treatment remotely using telecommunications technology. It allows patients to connect with healthcare providers through video calls, phone calls, or online messaging, eliminating the need for in-person visits. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Telemedicine was used in developed countries to offer medical care while minimizing physical contact.Building Telemedicine on Blockchain has many advantages it will come with. First is that it will promote safety against fake health personnel since the services will be rendered on the immutable Blockchain. Any discrepancy can be traced and the victim is punished. Blockchain can accommodate incentives for both individuals offering the service and those receiving it. This will motivate citizens, especially those in remote areas to seek telemedication. Token-Based Health IncentivesThe Blockchain technology allows for the creation of health-related tokens or NFTs to reward individuals for healthy behaviors. For example, people can be rewarded for jogging, walking for x period, visiting Jims, etc.  These tokens can be used to access healthcare services, creating a direct link between health activities and incentives.Community Governance Through DAOs Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs) can be used to allow communities to collectively make decisions about their healthcare services.This will not only make the system more responsive to local needs but will also provide an avenue for the government to understand the needs of its people. Tokenized Medical Research Over the years, it has been observed that people are usually reluctant to provide health information to research personnel. This is usually because of a lack of incentives for doing so, and/or privacy reasons. By incentivizing medical research, people will be more willing to participate in medical research campaigns because there is something for them. The list can go on, and it is important to correct an impression here. Blockchain can offer an improved healthcare system without any form of tokenization. Some countries have shut down the idea of adopting Blockchain because they believe that any use case built on Blockchain must involve tokenization. This is a wrong impression. Several use cases such as data management and Telemedicine can stand on their own independently. The tokenization in most cases is for incentivizing the consumers of the service. The tokens in this type of scenario are not securities by the way. They are utility tokens. Blockchain enthusiasts who wish to see Blockchain adoption in the health sector and other sectors in their countries should start now to push for the adoption. They should form a group that will work towards educating stakeholders of the state on how Blockchain can improve the country. If we must do this, then we need to start now because Blockchain technology is an advanced tech. It needs expertise for one to be able to build on it.  This means that there is a need for increased awareness, sponsored Blockchain tech skill acquisition, and lots more.  

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) play a crucial role in addressing various social and environmental issues worldwide. These organizations operate independently of government authorities and are driven by a mission to make positive changes in various aspects of society. Their relevance in countries, especially developing countries cannot be overstated, as they serve as catalysts for social progress, advocates for human rights, and providers of essential services to communities in need.However, the operational challenges faced by NGOs, such as transparency, accountability, and efficiency, can hinder their ability to make a meaningful impact. Many individuals and organizations no longer believe in the operations of NGOs because of the lack of transparency and accountability. There is thus a need to rekindle trust in the operations of NGOs.Smart contracts can offer a promising solution to simplify and streamline NGO operations. In this post, we'll explore how smart contracts can benefit NGOs and revolutionize their work.What Are Smart Contracts?Smart contracts are self-executing contracts with the terms of the agreement directly written into code. They run on blockchain platforms, ensuring transparency, security, and automation. These contracts eliminate the need for intermediaries, making transactions quicker and more cost-effective. Simplifying NGO Operations with Smart Contracts:1. Donor Transparency And Privacy:   Smart contracts can provide full transparency to donors by recording all transactions on a public blockchain. Donors can verify how their contributions are used. This will promote trust and accountability, thereby encouraging more donors to support the works of NGOs. Again, since Smart Contracts can be coded to one's desire, Smart contracts can be used to protect a donor's identity. Traditionally, donors send money to local bank accounts, and as a way of showing transparency, the NGO prints their statement of account and makes it public.  This affects the reputation of donors. With Smart Contracts and blockchain technology, the identity of donors can either be known or hidden depending on the desire of the donor. 2. Fund Disbursement: Since Smart Contract calls are only executed when predefined conditions are met, NGOs can automate the process of disbursing funds to beneficiaries or partner organizations when predefined conditions are met. This ensures that funds are used for their intended purposes and reduces administrative overhead.Secondly, when there are discrepancies in terms of what was said to be given and what was given, the Smart contract call and the transaction history will stand as evidence. 3. Accountability:With Blockchain technology (precisely Public Blockchain), the issue of fraud will be solved. The inflow and outflow of funds will be available to the public. This will force NGOs into spending the funds right since they know that all eyes are on them. 4. Reduced Administrative Costs:With automation, NGOs can significantly reduce administrative costs associated with managing finances and contracts. This allows them to allocate more resources to their core missions. For example, if a fund is to be allocated to an organization, an on-chain proposal can be set up whereby members of the organization will vote. The NGO body in charge will focus on other things and the fund will automatically be transferred to the organization in question when the proposal passes. 5. Secure and Immutable Records:Blockchain technology ensures that once a transaction is recorded, it cannot be altered or deleted. This creates a tamper-proof record of all NGO activities, which can be invaluable for audits and reporting.6. Cross-Border Transactions:NGOs often operate globally, making cross-border transactions complex and expensive. Sometimes huge amounts of money are spent on converting from one fiat to another. Smart contracts enable seamless cross-border transactions by eliminating currency conversion and reducing transaction fees.Despite the above benefits of integrating Smart Contracts and Blockchain tech into the operations of NGOs, certain things need to be considered. Technical expertise: NGOs may need to invest in training to use blockchain and smart contract technology effectively.Smart contract creation needs expertise because Smart contracts can be exploited which can lead to loss of funds and trust from donors. There should be a daily or weekly audit of the Smart Contract. Implementing smart contracts into existing systems may require significant effort and resources. There is a need for government approval, and members of organizations also need to be educated on it, less they will feel deceived because they do not understand the tech. Scalability: The scalability of the Blockchain network to be used needs to be carefully considered. This is because poor scalability can affect performance. ConclusionSmart contracts are going to enhance NGO operations by enhancing transparency, accountability, and efficiency. Through automating processes, reducing administrative overhead, and providing tamper-proof records, smart contracts empower NGOs and help them to achieve more within a short period. However, successful adoption will require a careful evaluation of technical capabilities, integration strategies, and scalability considerations. This is why now is the right time to begin this journey so that in years to come, the application will be swift.#DeFiChallenge #crypto2023