Research Summary
The report provides an overview of recent developments in the modular ecosystem, highlighting key updates from various projects. These include Optimism, ZKsync, Starknet, Scroll, Saga, Cartesi, Fuel, Talus Network, Conduit, Caldera, AltLayer, Gateway, Avail, EigenLayer, Nuffle Labs, OG Labs, Astria, Radius, LayerZero, Wormhole, Hyperlane, Polyhedra, Neutron, RiscZero, Gevulot, Herodotus, Nebra, and Redstone.
Key Takeaways
Layer 2 Developments
- Optimism and ZKsync: Optimism’s Mint Blockchain, an L2 on the Optimism Superchain, is now live on Mainnet. ZKsync unveiled its concept of Elastic Chains, marking a significant development in Layer 2 solutions.
- Starknet: Starknet announced the launch of Kakarot zkEVM on public testnet and the introduction of DeFI Spring 2.0, indicating progress in its Layer 2 solutions.
Partnerships and Collaborations
- Cartesi and Avail: Cartesi announced a partnership with Avail to bring Avail DA to Cartesi Risc-V-Linux machine, demonstrating the importance of strategic collaborations in the ecosystem.
- API3 and Caldera: API3 partnered with Caldera for the launch of their OEV network infrastructure, highlighting the role of partnerships in expanding network capabilities.
Product Launches and Upgrades
- Scroll and Conduit: Scroll announced that Curie is now live on its Mainnet, which has helped reduce fees by 2x. Conduit introduced its marketplace and announced the upcoming Fjord Upgrade to the OP Stack.
- Caldera: Caldera announced the launch of Layer Leap, starting from Rari Chain, which will enable seamless bridging from Ethereum to Arbitrum Orbit L3s.
Funding and Financial Developments
- Astria and Redstone: Astria announced a $12.5M raise led by DBA and Placeholder. Redstone raised $15M in their Series A round, indicating strong investor interest in the modular ecosystem.
Technical Advancements
- Polyhedra: Polyhedra introduced Ethereum Full Consensus Proof, marking a significant technical advancement in the ecosystem.
- Nuffle Labs: Nuffle Labs announced that rss3 is the first Rollup to use Near DA, demonstrating progress in technical development.
Actionable Insights
- Monitor Layer 2 Developments: With Optimism and ZKsync making significant strides in Layer 2 solutions, it’s crucial to keep an eye on further developments in this area.
- Assess Impact of Partnerships: The partnerships between Cartesi and Avail, and API3 and Caldera, could have significant implications for the involved parties and the broader ecosystem. Assessing the impact of these collaborations could provide valuable insights.
- Track Product Launches and Upgrades: The launch of Curie on Scroll’s Mainnet and the introduction of Conduit’s marketplace are notable developments. Tracking these and other product launches and upgrades can help understand the evolving landscape.
- Understand Funding Trends: The funding rounds of Astria and Redstone highlight investor interest in the modular ecosystem. Understanding these trends can provide insights into the financial health and growth potential of these projects.
- Stay Updated on Technical Advancements: The introduction of Ethereum Full Consensus Proof by Polyhedra and the use of Near DA by Nuffle Labs’ rss3 Rollup are significant technical advancements. Staying updated on these and other technical developments can help anticipate future trends in the ecosystem.
