What are the hottest cryptocurrency investment narratives in 2024? (one)
Decentralized Artificial Intelligence, Re-Staking, Bitcoin L2, Modularity, Data Availability, DePIN, Alt L1, Intent, Interoperability, Inscription, Parallel EVM, RWA
Decentralized artificial intelligence
Decentralized AI involves open source AI systems that run on a distributed network, such as a blockchain, rather than under the control of a single organization. This approach leverages the strengths of blockchain technology to democratize artificial intelligence and make it more accessible and usable for everyone
re-pledge
Re-staking is a strategy where investors leverage their staked assets to earn additional rewards, effectively compounding returns. This is done by participating in further staking opportunities using staking assets on the secondary platform.
Re-staking is expected to be one of the biggest events in 2024, with over $11 billion already re-staking on EigenLayer, positioning it as the second largest application of TVL in the cryptocurrency space. An entire ecosystem of applications is being designed on EigenLayer, and this growth is expected to continue.
Bitcoin L2
Bitcoin Layer 2 solutions (Bitcoin L2) are networks or protocols built on top of the Bitcoin blockchain (L1). They are designed to extend the Bitcoin network by processing off-chain (outside the Bitcoin blockchain) transactions while inheriting its security and benefiting from its network effects.
Bitcoin L2 has the potential to follow in the footsteps of Ethereum’s Layer 2 success and free up some of the idle capital on Bitcoin. This could drive wider adoption and bring value into the Bitcoin ecosystem.
Modular
Modularity refers to the design approach to building blockchains and applications in cryptocurrencies, where the system is built using separate specialized components or modules. This design philosophy aims to make the technology stack more efficient and scalable by isolating the functionality of each module from other modules.
One of the most prominent narratives surrounding modularity is the concept of “modular currencies”; Celestia is at the forefront of the modular blockchain movement. This narrative combines several others mentioned on this list, such as the Alt L1 narrative and the DA layer, among others.
Data availability
Data Availability (DA) guarantees that all data required to verify transactions on the blockchain is accessible to anyone who needs it.
This is crucial for validating transactions and maintaining the transparency and security of the chain, as this data can be used by anyone to reconstruct the entire state of the chain if needed.
The DA layer provides a new way to extend the blockchain and will become the center for publishing data on the blockchain.
DePIN
Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Network (DePIN) is a system that manages and coordinates real-world physical infrastructure through a decentralized network built on blockchain technology.
DePIN aims to increase efficiency and reduce infrastructure costs by distributing control and ownership to individuals who are incentivized to participate in the network.
DePIN represents a real-world use case for cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. Synergies with emerging trends, such as the integration of cryptocurrencies with artificial intelligence, further enhance DePIN’s relevance. The rise of AI agents is likely to increase demand for resources that the DePIN project can provide efficiently and cost-effectively.
Alt L1
Alternative layer 1 (alt L1) is a blockchain that positions itself as a competitor to mainstream blockchains. These blockchains aim to address the limitations of existing blockchains by employing different technological approaches to optimize unique features.
Alt L1 trading was the defining theme of the last cycle, with Solana, Terra, and Avalanche (often grouped as "SolLunaAvax") at the forefront. The general consensus is that Alt L1 trading will never go away and will remain a key theme every cycle.
In the current bull market, Solana remains the favorite, while we also have newcomers like Celestia gaining traction. The abbreviation “Solestia” has become a buzzword on cryptocurrency Twitter, representing the Alt L1 narrative of the cycle.
intention
Intent in the context of blockchain refers to the outcome or end state that a user wishes to achieve on the chain (e.g., execute a transaction, borrow or lend an asset). The actual implementation work is delegated to a third-party agent, rather than the user performing these operations directly. These agents often compete in an auction-like environment for the right to fulfill the user's intent in the most efficient way.
Intent-centric protocols are at the vanguard of DeFi, generating billions in order flow.They provide significant opportunities to capture value through fees, MEV, and more. These projects also have the potential to greatly enhance the DeFi user experience, serving as an abstraction layer that simplifies interactions in increasingly complex multi-chain ecosystems.
