yWeb3 | Navigating Frontier Tech – Episode 9 | MetaMask & PayPal Off-Ramp | Visa on SOL | USDC on Base

In this episode

Jay Steinback, the visionary CEO & Co-Founder of yWhales, assembles a distinguished panel of experts to embark on an exploration of the dynamic realm of Web3 and cutting-edge technology. Alongside Jay, we welcome Janine Grainger, the astute CEO & Co-Founder of Easy Crypto, and the dynamic Michael Toner, Chief Marketing Officer at Threedium, to the conversation. The episode kicks off by delving deep into the groundbreaking innovations of MetaMask, spotlighting its revolutionary traditional bank and PayPal cash-out options that are set to redefine the crypto landscape and user experience.

The dialogue then takes an exhilarating turn with the revelation of Visa's bold move into stablecoin settlement on the Solana blockchain, effectively bridging the gap between the traditional financial world and the transformative realm of blockchain technology. Furthermore, we embark on an exploration of SOMA Finance's pioneering achievement in issuing the first-ever retail-compliant digital security, a significant milestone with far-reaching implications for the financial landscape.

This episode also takes a comprehensive dive into the ever-evolving cryptocurrency market, shedding light on Circle's strategic deployment of USDC on Layer 2 networks. Additionally, we delve into the meteoric rise of the Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) market, which is projected to surge to a staggering $7.91 billion by 2030. The discussion is enriched with concise segments that touch upon VR interoperability, Web3 authentication, the intriguing departures of engineers from Meta's Llama models project, and a compelling update on SpaceX's Starship, poised for its imminent IFT2 mission.

This engaging and informative discourse offers invaluable insights tailored for executives, professionals, entrepreneurs, and visionary business leaders who are eager to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of Web3 and emerging technologies.

About Guests

Janine Grainger's remarkable journey as the Co-Founder & CEO of Easy Crypto is a testament to her unwavering commitment to driving strategic development initiatives. With a diverse and impressive background spanning finance, economics, and consulting, Janine's expertise has been honed through years of delivering strategic solutions for renowned corporations like Air New Zealand and Westpac. Her invaluable experience also extends to the public sector, where she has contributed her strategic acumen.

On the other hand, Michael Toner occupies the pivotal role of Chief Marketing Officer at Threedium, a pioneering force in the realm of 3D and AR technologies, poised to reshape the landscape of the 3D Internet. Threedium's mission is to empower global brands to create and disseminate immersive 3D and AR experiences within their e-commerce and web3 commerce platforms, fundamentally revolutionizing the way products are bought and sold in the dynamic 3D web arena.

Michael's journey to Threedium is a testament to his wealth of experience and expertise. Prior to his role at Threedium, he accumulated over a decade of experience overseeing B2B digital marketing strategies for Fortune 500 companies and global financial institutions, positioning him as a true visionary in the field. His impactful journey with Threedium commenced in early 2021, where he brought his vast knowledge to drive the company's innovative endeavors forward. Notably, Michael holds an MBA from Drexel University, underscoring his dedication to continuous learning and professional growth.

Beyond his professional achievements, Michael calls Washington, D.C. his home, where he resides with his wife and two sons, balancing the demands of a dynamic career with his commitment to family life. His journey and accomplishments serve as an inspiration to all those striving for excellence in the ever-evolving world of digital marketing and 3D technologies.

Guest Social Links: 

Janine’s LinkedIn: https://nz.linkedin.com/in/janine-grainger-easycrypto

Easy Crypto’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/easycrypto

Easy Crypto’s Website: https://easycrypto.com/

Learn more: https://links.ywhales.com/easycrypto

Michael’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/MikeToner

Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toner/

Threedium’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/Threedium

Threedium’s Website: https://www.threedium.io/

Learn more: https://links.ywhales.com/Threedium

Timestamps
0:00 Jay’s intro
0:54 Guests intro
2:57 MetaMask Introduces Bank and PayPal Cash-Out Options
7:38 Breaking: Visa Expands Stablecoin Settlement Pilot to Solana
12:47 SOMA Finance to Issue the First Retail Compliant Digital Security
21:00 The current state of crypto
25:16 Circle deploys USDC on Layer 2 networks OP Mainnet and Base
31:56 Augmented Reality (AR) And Virtual Reality (VR) In Healthcare Market is estimated to be US$ 7.91 billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 26.0% during the forecast period – By PMI
+ Meta is Reportedly Partnering with LG to Create Apple Vision Pro Competitor
50:19 Engineers who worked at Meta’s Llama models have quit, here’s why
53:56 SpaceX Starship is stacked and ready for IFT2
56:00 Closing thoughts and contact

Watch more: https://www.ywhales.com/podcasts/

DISCLAIMER: yWhales is not affiliated with YPO. Support and production for today’s episode was done by Truth Work Media. Nothing in the podcast constitutes professional and/or financial advice, nor does any information on the podcast constitute a comprehensive or complete statement of the matters discussed or the law relating thereto.