Deepanshu Tripathi, the driving force behind AssetMantle. As the founder and product growth lead, he's at the forefront of blockchain and web3 innovation. Deepanshu's team is all about taking NFTs and digital asset management to the next level by creating a bridge between traditional finance and the exciting world of DeFi. AssetMantle is on a mission to make blockchain more user-friendly and eco-conscious, tackling challenges like interoperability and scalability, all while actively contributing to the vibrant Cosmos ecosystem.

What are the biggest challenges and opportunities facing web3 startups today?

Web3 startups face a unique set of challenges, including balancing innovation and regulation, ensuring interoperability and scalability, and driving user adoption. However, the opportunities are immense, with web3 having the potential to revolutionize industries, democratize finance, and redefine ownership and trust. Innovative revenue models and the decentralized nature of web3 technologies are also opening up new possibilities for startups.

What are the most important trends to watch in the tech industry in the next 5-10 years? 

Blockchain and AI are two of the most exciting technologies of our time. When combined, they have the potential to revolutionize many industries, from finance to healthcare to supply chain management.

Blockchain is a secure and transparent way to record and verify transactions. AI enables machines to learn from data and make decisions on their own. Together, these technologies can create powerful solutions for data security, smart contracts, and predictive analytics.

For example, blockchain-based decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms offer borderless lending, borrowing, and trading of assets without the need for traditional intermediaries. AI can enhance risk assessment and fraud detection on these platforms, making DeFi more secure and efficient.

In healthcare, blockchain can improve data sharing and patient record management. AI can analyze patient data to assist in diagnosis and drug discovery. The combination of both can lead to more personalized and effective healthcare solutions.

Supply chain management is another area where this convergence can make a significant impact. Blockchain's transparent and tamper-proof ledger can provide end-to-end visibility of the supply chain. AI can optimize logistics, predict demand, and identify inefficiencies.

Overall, the convergence of blockchain and AI is a major trend with the potential to disrupt and transform many industries.

What are the biggest risks and rewards of investing in web3 startups? 

Investing in web3 startups today presents both exciting opportunities and considerable risks. The opportunities lie in the potential for early adoption of groundbreaking technologies, offering the chance for substantial financial gains. Startups in the web3 space, particularly those involved in decentralized finance (DeFi), have shown impressive growth. They're creating innovative financial ecosystems that offer high returns on investment. Additionally, the token-based model employed by many web3 startups can lead to significant returns, as the value of native tokens can appreciate rapidly. However, it's important to acknowledge the substantial risks involved. The regulatory environment for web3 startups is still evolving and can change abruptly, potentially impacting investments. The price volatility of cryptocurrencies and tokens used in web3 projects can result in significant losses. Security concerns, such as smart contract vulnerabilities and hacks, can also pose risks. Intense competition within the web3 space can lead to some startups failing to gain traction. Furthermore, not all web3 projects may achieve mass adoption, limiting their growth potential. Finally, token dilution, as startups mint and distribute additional tokens for funding, can reduce the value of existing tokens, impacting investor returns.

How can people get involved in the web3 ecosystem without having to invest in startups?

Participating in the web3 ecosystem is possible without direct investments in startups. One of the most accessible ways is through education. Learning about blockchain technology, decentralized applications, and cryptocurrencies is the first step. Online courses, forums, and educational platforms provide ample resources. For those with technical skills, contributing to open-source projects is a valuable avenue. Many web3 projects are open source, and contributions can include code, documentation, and community support. Active participation in web3 communities is another method. Engaging in discussions, asking questions, and sharing knowledge in forums and social media groups is a way to become part of the ecosystem. Running network nodes, if you have the technical expertise, contributes to network security. Staking tokens in proof-of-stake networks is also a way to support the ecosystem and earn rewards. Non-technical individuals can engage by using decentralized applications (DApps) in daily life, supporting NFT creators, or advocating for decentralization. Attending web3-related conferences and meetups offers opportunities for networking and learning. The web3 ecosystem is inclusive, and there are avenues for involvement that suit a range of interests and skill sets. It's not just about investments; it's about active participation in a transformative technology landscape.

What advice would you give to people who are interested in building a career in web3?

Building a successful career in web3 requires a well-rounded approach that includes education, networking, hands-on experience, and adaptability.

Start by learning the fundamentals of web3 technologies, such as blockchain, smart contracts, and decentralized applications (dApps). There are many online resources and communities available to help you get started.

Once you have a strong foundation, focus on developing your skills in a specific niche, such as DeFi, NFTs, or blockchain gaming.

Hands-on experience is essential for standing out in the web3 job market. Create your own dApps, contribute to open-source projects, and experiment with different blockchain platforms and protocols.

Networking with other professionals in the web3 community is also important. Attend conferences, workshops, and meetups to connect with potential mentors, collaborators, and employers.

Finally, stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the web3 space. Subscribe to newsletters, follow influential figures on social media, and engage in online communities.

With hard work, dedication, and a willingness to learn, you can build a rewarding career in the exciting world of web3.

What are your predictions for the future of decentralized finance (DeFi)?

The future of decentralized finance (DeFi) promises an amalgamation of traditional finance and blockchain-based systems, breaking barriers for global financial inclusion. As regulatory clarity emerges, DeFi platforms will streamline their offerings and enhance interoperability, reducing fragmentation in the ecosystem. Real-world asset tokenization is expected to be a pivotal trend, offering diversified investment opportunities. The development of user-friendly interfaces will make DeFi accessible to a broader audience, simplifying its complexities. It's crucial to acknowledge that regulatory developments will significantly influence DeFi's path forward.

What are some of the most exciting new web3 applications that you're seeing?

I'm seeing some of the most exciting developments in the Web3 space within applications like friend.tech and real-world asset (RWA) tokenization platforms. Friend.tech offers a groundbreaking decentralized social media experience, giving users true ownership of their data and interactions. There are a plethora RWA tokenization platforms breaking new grounds, bridging the gap between traditional assets and the blockchain, opening up new avenues for investments and asset management.

How is the funding climate for startups changing, and what advice would you give to founders who are raising money? 

The funding climate for startups is undergoing a shift, with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its various applications garnering increased attention from venture capitalists. Meanwhile, the Web3 space has experienced a downturn, leading to reduced retail interest and subsequently affecting VC investments in the sector. For founders in the Web3 space seeking investment, it's crucial to emphasize the long-term potential of decentralized technologies, demonstrate real-world use cases, and foster partnerships within the Web3 ecosystem to build investor confidence.

What are your thoughts on the role of AssetMantle and other decentralized asset management protocols in the future of web3? 

AssetMantle's work in on-chain metadata is instrumental in unlocking a myriad of exciting DeFi use cases for real-world assets (RWA). By facilitating the seamless integration of metadata into the blockchain, AssetMantle empowers DeFi protocols to access critical information about these assets, including their origin, value, and ownership history. This enhanced transparency and traceability enable DeFi platforms to expand their offering to include RWAs as collateral, bridging the gap between the traditional financial world and the decentralized one.

What are some of the most exciting new web3 use cases that you're seeing?

Some of the most exciting new web3 use cases I've come across involve the intersection of DeFi and real-world assets. Specifically, the tokenization of assets such as real estate, commodities, and even income streams is gaining traction. This allows individuals to invest in and trade fractional ownership of traditionally illiquid assets, opening up new avenues for wealth creation. Additionally, the integration of oracles to feed real-world data into smart contracts is enabling advanced financial products and automated systems, pushing the boundaries of what DeFi can achieve. These developments are not only reshaping the financial landscape but also democratizing access to wealth-building opportunities.