Newsletter #147: Unexpected Trends

Newsletter #147: Unexpected Trends

This week’s featured collector is RyanOuyang

RyanOuyang’s collection features a diverse array of digital art and utility NFTs with a strong focus on the convergence of art, technology, and hybrid real world-digital experiences. View the full collection at lazy.com/ryanouyang


Lazy.com is the easiest way to create a gallery of your NFT collection. Show some love for NFTs by sharing this newsletter with your friends!

Share


The results of last week’s poll: How likely are you to invest in a project that utilizes the ERC-404 standard?

Last week’s poll revealed a significant polarization with respect to ERC-404: a large segment (48%) shows a willingness to invest, ranging from strong to moderate, while a nearly equivalent faction (40%) voiced skepticism or outright rejection. Only a small fraction (12%) holds a neutral stance, underscoring the decisive split in opinion. This suggests the NFT community is strongly divided in its assessment of ERC-404’s promise and risks.


NFT Market Trends: From Ethereum’s Surge to EtherRocks’ Controversy

The NFT space is abuzz with a flurry of activity that has both collectors and the curious paying renewed attention. The recent surge in Ethereum NFT trading volume, an upcoming Sotheby’s auction of an EtherRock, and The Glenlivet’s foray into NFTs with their whiskey collection, each tell a tale of the evolving narrative of non-fungible tokens.

Ethereum’s NFT Volume Soars as Pudgy Penguins Climb

A noteworthy trend is the spike in NFT trading on Ethereum, reaching its zenith since the previous year. The Pudgy Penguins collection has been pivotal in this, nearly overtaking Bored Ape Yacht Club for the second spot in market cap rankings. This growth is not just a testament to the allure of the Pudgy Penguins but also a nod to the broader potential of NFTs as integral components of retail and interactive digital experiences, like the anticipated Pudgy World game. Some see the surging Ethereum volume as an optimistic sign of the market’s maturation, where the utility and community engagement are becoming as significant as the assets themselves. Others point out that the bulk of the volume has been in sales of existing NFT collections and not mints of new collections.

For a bit more detail, check out The Block

The EtherRock Debate: A Stone of Contention

A debate has been sparked by the recent Sotheby’s auction of an EtherRock. These digital rocks, simple yet limited in number, have their roots in the early Ethereum days, a predecessor to the ERC-721 and ERC-1155 standards. The contentious debate around EtherRocks has intensified this week over disagreements on their perceived historical significance. While some argue that EtherRocks are merely a meme revived from obscurity, others believe they mark a crucial moment in digital collectibles. The debate underscores the community’s introspection on what truly shapes the value and narrative of NFTs. Meanwhile, all eyes are on the results of the Sotheby’s auction.

Learn more about the debates, at NFT Now.

The Glenlivet’s NFT Whiskey: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation

bottle of whisky being sold with an NFT

Lastly, The Glenlivet’s integration of NFTs and AI into their anniversary whiskey collection illustrates how luxury goods and blockchain technology are intersecting. By combining generative AI for label design and Ethereum-based NFTs as digital certificates of ownership, The Glenlivet isn’t just releasing a product; they’re exploring the ways NFTs can build communities and retail experiences. This exemplifies a broader shift in the NFT domain towards real-world resonance, a shift from pure artworks to a token of authenticity and tangible value.

Learn more about The Glenlivet’s NFT sale at Decrypt.

Conclusion: The NFT Market’s Dynamism

In this week’s developments, we observe the NFT market’s ongoing dynamism, reflecting a blend of speculative interest, a search for intrinsic value, and a pivot towards utility and historical significance. As the space matures, it is clear that innovation, community engagement, and a deeper understanding of the technology’s potential are shaping the trajectory of NFTs.

These stories unfold in a market that is as volatile as it is vibrant, reminding us that in the world of NFTs, the only constant is change—and the value of any asset is as much a product of its narrative as it is its utility.


This week’s poll: How significant do you believe EtherRocks are to NFT history?


Thank you for reading Lazy.com’s Newsletter. Was this post helpful? Show some love by sharing.

Share


We ❤️ Feedback

We would love to hear from you as we continue to build out new features for Lazy! Love the site? Have an idea on how we can improve it? Drop us a line at info@lazy.com

Newsletter #146: The ERC-404 Controversy

Newsletter #146: The ERC-404 Controversy

This week’s featured collector is MasterWongNFT

MasterWongNFT’s collection spans a range of artistic expression ranging from tranquil landscapes and endearing wildlife to abstract digital art. View the full collection at lazy.com/masterwongnft


Lazy.com is the easiest way to create a gallery of your NFT collection. Show some love for NFTs by sharing this newsletter with your friends!

Share


The results of last week’s poll: What do you believe is the future of NFT-based DAOs in product development and retail?

Last week’s poll reflects a strong belief among Lazy users in the potential of NFT-based DAOs in product development and retail, with 45% predicting they will become common due to their ability to revolutionize ownership and authenticity in these sectors. However, a notable 36% see a more limited role, possibly due to current technological and regulatory challenges, while 18% cite complexity as a barrier to widespread adoption. Overall, the results paint an optimistic picture of the prospects that NFT-based DAOs hold within the dynamic landscape of digital commerce, especially if their complexity is diminished.


The ERC-404 Controversy: Merging Fungible and Non-Fungible Tokens on Ethereum

The evolution of token standards on Ethereum has been marked by the establishment of ERC-20 fungible tokens and ERC-721 non-fungible tokens (NFTs). While ERC-20 tokens saw a surge in on-chain liquidity with the advent of Uniswap and other decentralized exchanges, NFTs have historically grappled with liquidity constraints. To address these issues, a variety of solutions have emerged over the past two years, including lending protocols, fractional protocols and more.

This week, anonymous developers have proposed a new standard. Although they are calling it “ERC-404,” it has not technically gone through the official standardization process. ERC-404 aims to innovate by combining the characteristics of ERC-20 fungible tokens with those of ERC-721 NFTs. It introduces a hybrid asset where each token maintains the tradable property of ERC-20 while being tied to a unique, non-fungible ERC-721 token. This standard seeks to enhance the liquidity of NFTs by enabling their fractionalized trade, akin to fungible tokens, yet allowing them to retain their distinct, non-fungible traits. This novel approach could potentially address the liquidity issues that have long plagued NFTs by leveraging the fluidity and accessibility of fungible tokens, creating a more versatile digital asset.

Despite the excitement, caution is advised due to the experimental nature of ERC-404 and the potential risks involved, especially in terms of its interaction with existing lending protocols. The developers are actively working on a formal Ethereum Improvement Proposal (EIP) to seek broader acceptance and legitimacy within the Ethereum community.

The ultimate impact and adoption of this particular innovation will depend on whether the proposed standard is accepted by the Ethereum community. Still, regardless of what happens, the introduction of ERC-404 alone is a welcome sign that the NFT community continues to innovate. And that is very good news!

Learn more at Wu Blockchain, Cointelegraph, and X.


This week’s poll: How likely are you to invest in a project that utilizes the ERC-404 standard?


Thank you for reading Lazy.com’s Newsletter. Was this post helpful? Show some love by sharing.

Share


We ❤️ Feedback

We would love to hear from you as we continue to build out new features for Lazy! Love the site? Have an idea on how we can improve it? Drop us a line at info@lazy.com

Newsletter #145: The Scent of NFTs

Newsletter #145: The Scent of NFTs

This week’s featured collector is Ravenwood

Ravenwood’s collection showcases an array of digital artworks that blend geometric abstraction with dynamic visual elements. Each piece explores different themes such as complexity, color interplay, and the interaction of shapes over time. The collection stands out for its use of mathematical patterns and organic motifs. View the full collection at lazy.com/ravenwood


Lazy.com is the easiest way to create a gallery of your NFT collection. Show some love for NFTs by sharing this newsletter with your friends!

Share


The results of last week’s poll: In your perspective, what is the most pressing challenge facing the NFT market today?

Fraud and security concerns dominate the perceived challenges within the NFT market, as indicated by a 40% majority in a recent poll among Lazy newsletter readers. This sentiment reflects acute awareness of the need for enhanced security measures against hacks, a critical issue that overshadows other market concerns. Equal shares of the respondents, each at 15%, highlight market volatility, saturation, and regulatory uncertainty as notable challenges, underscoring a landscape that is not only wary of deceptive practices but also cognizant of the risks associated with market dynamics and ambiguous regulations. This poll provides a telling insight into the mindset of NFT collectors, who are evidently as concerned with the safety of their transactions as they are with the broader market forces and regulatory environments.


An NFT DAO’s Journey from Concept to Scent

In what must is likely the first intersection of NFTs with perfumery, Rook Perfumes has released ‘Scent of the Metaverse.’ This fragrance, now available in the well0known London department store Harvey Nichols, is not merely a scent but represents a collective creative venture rooted in the ethos of NFTs.

By purchasing an NFT access ticket, owners became members of a DAO and embarked on an educational journey into the nuances of fragrance crafting, culminating in their collaborative effort to conceive ‘Scent of the Metaverse.’ Moreover, this venture turned them into co-owners of the fragrance, entitling them to a stake in every facet of the product, from its formula and packaging design. Interestingly, the approval of these DAO members was pivotal for the fragrance’s retail presence in Harvey Nichols, underscoring the authentic decentralized decision-making inherent in the project.

‘Scent of the Metaverse’ represents a genuine integration of NFT technology with product creation. Described as unusual, the fragrance’s notes—white smoke, warm circuitry, digital rose, and celestial incense—reflect a blend of the virtual and the organic.

For those interested in the future of NFTs, this project represents more than just a fragrance launch; it’s a testament to the evolving dynamics of product creation, ownership, and community engagement in the era of web3 and blockchain technology. The journey from NFT-based DAO to real world product sets a precedent for future explorations in the realm of creative, decentralized collaborations.


This week’s poll: What do you believe is the future of NFT-based DAOs in product development and retail?


Thank you for reading Lazy.com’s Newsletter. Was this post helpful? Show some love by sharing.

Share


We ❤️ Feedback

We would love to hear from you as we continue to build out new features for Lazy! Love the site? Have an idea on how we can improve it? Drop us a line at info@lazy.com

Newsletter #144: NFTs Will Be Everywhere

Newsletter #144: NFTs Will Be Everywhere

This week’s featured collector is BrandonLovelace

BrandonLovelace’s collection spans minimalist to surreal, offering a piece for every collector’s taste—from a stark, iconic black cat to a culturally rich, vibrant character, down to a photo-realistic spider. This range not only reflects the versatility of NFT art but also caters to a market that values both aesthetic diversity and the intersection of art with the physical world. View the full collection at lazy.com/brandonlovelace


Lazy.com is the easiest way to create a gallery of your NFT collection. Show some love for NFTs by sharing this newsletter with your friends!

Share


The results of last week’s poll: What’s your NFT collecting style?

Last week’s poll resulted in a tie between ‘Trend Followers’ and ‘Long-term Holders’, each commanding a third of the respondents, suggesting a balanced split in the NFT community between those chasing current market trends and those investing with a view for long-term value retention. ‘Niche Hunters’ represent a significant minority, indicating a selective approach to collecting, while ‘Flip for Profit’ and ‘Something Else’ categories are the least represented, suggesting that quick returns and alternative collecting strategies are falling out of favor.


Why NFTs will start to massively influence everyone’s online experience

This week, MarketWatch published an editorial by Jurica Dujmovic that argues NFTs will play a huge role in online life in the years ahead. Here’s a summary of Dujmovic’s argument:

In 2024, the NFT landscape is expected to undergo a transformative shift, transcending its initial phase of speculative trading and digital-art collection. The market is poised to evolve into a mature ecosystem, intersecting with various facets of daily life such as digital identity, community engagement, gaming, finance, and education. The integration of NFTs within these realms is anticipated to redefine user engagement, offering not only a richer experience but also tangible rewards with real-world value. This trend is notably underscored by the increasing significance of NFTs in establishing verifiable, unique digital identities, thereby playing a pivotal role in reflecting and securing one’s digital persona across multiple platforms.

The financial implications of NFTs are set to broaden, with innovative models like NFT rentals, loans, and their integration into decentralized finance (DeFi) and traditional financial services. These developments cater to the growing demand for flexibility and accessibility in the NFT market, bridging the gap between decentralized and traditional finance. Concurrently, the creative sector will witness a renaissance through the fusion of AI and NFTs, pushing the boundaries of digital art, enhancing its curation, valuation, and trading. This synergy between AI and blockchain technology is not merely an innovation but a stride towards a more intelligent and secure NFT ecosystem. Educational institutions are also harnessing NFTs for credentialing and engaging students, potentially revolutionizing the recording, sharing, and verification of educational achievements.

In response to these multifaceted developments, regulatory frameworks for NFTs are anticipated to crystallize, addressing key concerns such as consumer protection, intellectual property rights, and taxation. This evolution will foster a healthier market environment, providing clarity and security for creators and investors alike. Moreover, community-driven projects and DAOs are expected to gain prominence, empowering communities through new forms of collective ownership and decision-making. As NFTs migrate from being mere collectibles to practical, utility-driven assets, they are set to become an integral part of our expanding digital lives.

To read the full article, visit NFTs are about to take a bigger role in your expanding online life.


This week’s poll: In your perspective, what is the most pressing challenge facing the NFT market today?


Thank you for reading Lazy.com’s Newsletter. Was this post helpful? Show some love by sharing.

Share


We ❤️ Feedback

We would love to hear from you as we continue to build out new features for Lazy! Love the site? Have an idea on how we can improve it? Drop us a line at info@lazy.com

Newsletter #143: Evolution of the NFT Landscape

Newsletter #143: Evolution of the NFT Landscape

This week’s featured collector is Vizvakarman

Vizvakarman is an artist whose collection fuses historical architectural styles with fantasy elements. For example, a gothic church against a mountainous landscape, a steampunk-infused floating city, and a bustling baroque edifice. The collection ought to appeal to those fascinated by the confluence of tradition and imagination in digital spaces. View it at lazy.com/vizvakarman


Show some love for NFTs by sharing this newsletter with your friends!

Share


The results of last week’s poll: What will the impact of the Bitcoin ETFs be on NFTs?

Last week’s poll indicates a prevailing optimism among NFT collectors about the integration of traditional financial mechanisms with digital assets, as 63% anticipate a positive influence of the Bitcoin ETFs on Bitcoin-related NFTs. This suggests an expectation that the Bitcoin ETFs could legitimize and boost the market for NFTs on the Bitcoin blockchain. A smaller segment, 16%, extends this positive outlook to the entire NFT sphere, implying a belief in broader market benefits. However, a cautious minority (10%) is concerned about potential negative impacts, while 11% perceive the ETF as inconsequential to NFTs.


Evolution of the NFT Landscape: Reflections on the Future of On-Chain Art in 2024

Ian Cheng, 3FACE, 2022. Courtesy of the artist.

Ian Cheng, 3FACE, 2022.

Jiayin Chen at ArtNet has written a comprehensive and nuanced exploration of the evolving landscape of digital art, with particular focus on blockchain and NFT-based artworks. The article is particularly interesting for NFT collectors and creators as it sheds light on the shifting ideological, technological, and artistic nature of NFTs. Here are a few of Chen’s key insights:

  1. Shifting Terminology and Perceptions of NFTs: There’s a noticeable shift from the hype-driven narrative surrounding NFTs to a more subdued and reflective approach. The term “NFT” is being increasingly replaced with “digital art on-chain,” signifying a desire to distance the medium from negative connotations of scams and speculative frenzy. This indicates a maturing market where “on-chain art” becomes normalized even if the term NFT is less frequently used.

  2. Community and Experimentation Over Speculation: Despite a cooler market, the digital art scene is vibrant with community-building and artistic experimentation. This suggests a resilient, passionate base that values innovation and collaboration, offering a stable foundation for creators and collectors looking for meaningful engagement beyond mere financial speculation.

  3. Institutional Recognition and Integration: Major art institutions like MoMA, LACMA, Centre Pompidou, and the Whitney Museum are increasingly embracing digital art, incorporating NFTs into their collections and exhibitions. This mainstream acceptance validates digital art as a legitimate artistic medium and offers creators and collectors opportunities for wider recognition and appreciation.

  4. Conceptual and Technical Diversity: Jiayin Chen points to the wide diversity of NFT projects released in 2023, from MoMA’s blockchain-based postcard initiative to Robbie Barrat’s non-violent wildlife simulation, showcasing the broad conceptual and technical range of digital art.

  5. Ethical and Philosophical Dimensions: The article touches on the ethical and philosophical dimensions of digital art, from its potential in fostering inclusive futures to the contemplation of its role in society. For creators and collectors, this adds a layer of depth to their engagement with digital art, encouraging a thoughtful consideration of the impact and purpose of their work and investments.

In conclusion, while the digital art market, especially the NFT space, may have cooled, Jiayin Chen’s article suggests that the sector is witnessing profound shifts towards maturity, community building, and institutional integration. For creators and collectors, this landscape offers rich opportunities for artistic expression and participation in a market that values innovation and cultural significance. The challenge is to navigate this evolving space with an understanding of its complexities and potential.

For a deep dive into the most exciting NFT projects of 2023 and what they suggest for the future of on-chain art, check out A Personal List of Some of The Most Interesting Digital-Art Experiments of 2023.


This week’s poll: What’s your NFT collecting style?


Thank you for reading Lazy.com’s Newsletter. Was this post helpful? Show some love by sharing.

Share


We ❤️ Feedback

We would love to hear from you as we continue to build out new features for Lazy! Love the site? Have an idea on how we can improve it? Drop us a line at info@lazy.com

Newsletter #142

Newsletter #142

This week’s featured collector is DoctorFomo

DoctorFomo’s eclectic NFT collection delights with its blend of nostalgia, whimsy, and artistic diversity, catering to a spectrum of tastes. Overall, the collection appeals to connoisseurs of digital art who cherish innovation, humor, and the unexpected. View it at lazy.com/doctorfomo


Show some love for NFTs by sharing this newsletter with your friends!

Share


The results of last week’s poll: Do you believe gifting company equity to NFT holders will become a common practice among NFT projects?

The poll indicates an optimistic view within the NFT community regarding the novel practice of gifting company equity to NFT holders. A significant percentage acknowledges the potential for this trend to reshape community rewards and company ownership. Yet, the 43% responding “possibly” suggests caution over the legal and practical complexities involved. Interestingly, no respondents completely dismissed the idea.


How will the Bitcoin ETFs impact NFTs?

This week marks a significant milestone for the cryptocurrency community as the Bitcoin ETF was approved and began trading. What will the impact of this milestone be for NFT collectors? Based on a recent report in NFT Now, this development carries both immediate and long-term implications.

In the short term, increased Bitcoin demand from ETF investors may inject volatility into the crypto markets, a scenario that historically hasn’t favored NFTs. However, the resulting ‘wealth effect’ from a buoyed crypto market could translate into heightened demand for NFTs, as collectors feel more financially empowered to invest.

Mid-to-long term, the approval is likely to attract new and institutional investors, which can lead to increased visibility and credibility for the NFT space. This could be a boon, particularly for prominent artists and projects within the Ethereum ecosystem, potentially leading to a concentration of interest and investment in high-quality NFTs. This is doubly true if there are signs that Ethereum will be the next ETF to be approved.

Overall, cultural impacts also loom large. The Bitcoin ETF lends further legitimacy to the crypto world, which is crucial in an era looking to rebuild trust post-high-profile fraud cases and dramatic price swings. This enhanced legitimacy could draw in new talent across various disciplines who are newly willing to be associated with the crypto industry, bolstering the NFT sector with fresh creativity and leadership.

While the immediate correlation between the Bitcoin ETF and the NFT market may not be direct, the ripple effects of this landmark financial instrument could shape the trajectory of NFTs in profound ways.

For a deeper dive, check out NFT Now’s report What Do BTC Spot ETFs Mean for the NFT Space?


This week’s poll: What will the impact of the Bitcoin ETF be on NFTs?


Thank you for reading Lazy.com’s Newsletter. Was this post helpful? Show some love by sharing.

Share


We ❤️ Feedback

We would love to hear from you as we continue to build out new features for Lazy! Love the site? Have an idea on how we can improve it? Drop us a line at info@lazy.com

Newsletter #141: A New Trend

Newsletter #141: A New Trend

This week’s featured collector is MrMocha

MrMocha is an artist from Montreal, Canada. He creates simple eye catching NFTs. View the full collection at lazy.com/mrmocha


Show some love for NFTs by sharing this newsletter with your friends!

Share


The results of last week’s poll: What will be the driving factor for NFT adoption in 2024?

The results of last week’s poll indicate that the primary driver of NFT adoption in 2024 is predicted to be the increased involvement of mainstream brands, reflecting a belief that familiar entities will validate and integrate NFTs into wider consumer experiences. Technical improvements in blockchain are also seen as significant, suggesting that advancements could lower barriers to entry. Diversification beyond art-related NFTs and the potential for social media platforms to facilitate NFT transactions are other notable factors, although less prevalent in the poll. A strong 13% of respondents think it will be something else than the options given.


NFT Projects Pioneer Free Equity Distribution to Holders

NFT projects have recently started a trend of granting company equity to their holders, a move that has stirred both excitement and skepticism in the community. Pons Asinorum, the founder of the NFT collection “The Plague,” made an announcement on December 25th that holders of their NFTs would receive a portion of company shares, determined by the number of unlisted NFTs they possess. This move was claimed to be legal, as the shares were given as a gift without any prior expectation or additional conditions for the NFT holders. Pons claimed to have consulted legal advice to confirm the legality of this unconventional approach.

Similarly, on January 1st, Rektguy co-founder Ovie Faruq announced that holders of Rektguy NFTs would be given equity in Rekt Brands Inc. Faruq emphasized that this gesture was a token of appreciation for the community’s support and assured its legal compliance. Notably, the transfer of these NFTs will not include the transfer of the associated equity.

These developments have generated significant discussion within the NFT community. Some view these moves as groundbreaking, potentially changing how NFTs interact with traditional notions of company ownership and investment. Others remain skeptical, questioning the legal and regulatory implications of such actions.

Will other NFT projects adopt similar equity-gifting strategies? Or will the uncertain legal aspects and long-term implications of such moves prevent widespread adoption?

Former Premier Suggests NFT Inauguration Token for Taiwan’s New President

In a novel proposition, former Premier Sean Chen has suggested that Taiwan should embrace digital innovation by issuing an NFT to commemorate the inauguration of its new president in May. Breaking away from the traditional minting of coins, this move could position Taiwan as the first country to celebrate such an event with an NFT. With the presidential election scheduled for January 13, candidates from the Democratic Progressive Party, Kuomintang, and Taiwan People’s Party are vying for office, with the swearing-in set for May 20. Chen envisions this eco-friendly NFT not just as a gift to the new leader but also as a historic achievement for both the president and the governor of the central bank, signaling Taiwan’s pioneering step into the intersection of governance and blockchain technology.


This week’s poll: Do you believe gifting company equity to NFT holders will become a common practice among NFT projects?


Thank you for reading Lazy.com’s Newsletter. Was this post helpful? Show some love by sharing.

Share


We ❤️ Feedback

We would love to hear from you as we continue to build out new features for Lazy! Love the site? Have an idea on how we can improve it? Drop us a line at info@lazy.com

Newsletter #140

Newsletter #140

This week’s featured collector is Kaboom_NFT

Kaboom_NFT is a Miami-based multimedia artist. Their artworks exhibit a theme of techno-organic synthesis, merging mechanical and organic elements into a cohesive aesthetic. Each piece reflects on the convergence of biology and technology, probing the viewer to consider the future of human identity and the role of artificial creation in our evolution. View the full collection at lazy.com/kaboom_nft


Let’s thaw the NFT winter together… Share this newsletter with your friends!

Share


The results of last week’s poll: How significant do you think China’s impact will be on the global NFT market in 2024?

The poll’s results suggest a nuanced view of China’s potential influence on the global NFT market, with a lean towards significant impact, likely due to China’s massive consumer base and professed commitment blockchain technologies. However, the notable percentage of ‘Unsure’ and ‘No Impact’ votes signals a recognition of the uncertainties, particularly around China’s stringent regulatory approach to cryptocurrencies and the possibility of China developing a parallel NFT ecosystem that operates independently from the global market.


A Look Back on 2023’s Most Expensive NFT Sales

In 2023, Yuga Labs’ NFT projects—CryptoPunks, Bored Ape Yacht Club, and Mutant Ape Yacht Club—led the list of the most expensive NFT sales. The sales were dominated by these collections, with four CryptoPunks, four Bored Apes, and one Mutant Ape making the top ten. The only other NFT to feature in the highest sales was a piece from the Fidenza collection by Tyler Hobbs, known for its generative art.

Despite the prestigious sales, the broader NFT market faced challenges. Floor prices for Yuga Labs’ collections saw significant declines, with Bored Ape Yacht Club and CryptoPunks decreasing by 57.6% and 13.8% respectively from the start of the year to late November. This downturn reflects a cooling market for NFTs, which may be attributed to broader economic trends or shifts in collector interest.

The top sales, nonetheless, showcase the enduring appeal of certain NFTs based on rarity and community value. For example, a Bored Ape with rare ‘trippy fur’ and a ‘Kings Crown’ sold for 440 ETH, while a featureless CryptoPunk #3307 fetched 500 ETH due to its uniqueness.

For the full list, check of The Block’s report here.

A Look Forward to The Return of NFTs in 2024

A contemporary digital art piece illustrating the use of NFTs in the year 2024. The scene is set in a realistic urban environment with people of diverse ages and backgrounds casually interacting with NFTs on various devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops in a city park. The NFTs are represented in a subtle and understated way, with simple icons and soft colors, to show a natural progression of technology integration into daily life. The setting reflects an everyday atmosphere, with the presence of NFTs suggesting their normalized role in personal and commercial transactions.

This week Coindesk published an op-ed by Scott Kominers and Steve Kaczynski predicting the return of NFTs in 2024. Here is a summary of their insights:

As 2023 draws to a close, NFTs are experiencing a revival, with brands integrating NFTs into both physical retail and online stores, launching blockchain-based games, and attracting established companies to the space. This integration of NFTs into broader brand strategies is anticipated to be a significant catalyst for Web3 adoption in the coming year. Upcoming NFT products are expected to diverge from the previous trend of scarce, high-priced assets, shifting towards mass production and affordability to appeal to a wider consumer base. These products aim to provide direct value and utility over speculative investment, with many consumers engaging with these digital assets seamlessly as part of their everyday transactions, possibly without full awareness of the underlying blockchain technology.

NFTs have started to penetrate the mass market as digital collectibles with companies like Nike, Reddit, Starbucks, and even figures such as Donald Trump experimenting with the technology. “Phygital” activations, where physical products are paired with NFTs, and the use of NFTs for tickets and memberships, are becoming more common. These initiatives offer consumers new to NFTs a taste of digital ownership at standard consumer prices. The technology is being made user-friendly with platform designs that mask the complexity of blockchain with partial or full custodial wallet systems, still allowing users to enjoy the benefits and engage with the wider NFT community.

The broader access to digital assets, technologically and price-wise, is expanding the potential market and providing a solid foundation for brands to build on. NFTs enable decentralized value creation, turning customers into a community linked to the brand and each other, fostering brand growth through consumer-driven sharing and interaction. This phenomenon isn’t limited to major corporations; it’s equally impactful for small businesses and solo creators, indicating that the trend toward smaller, more accessible NFT products is not just a passing phase but a glimpse into the future of brand engagement and community building in the digital age.

Read the full op-ed at Coindesk.


This week’s poll: What will be the driving factor for NFT adoption in 2024?


Thank you for reading Lazy.com’s Newsletter. Was this post helpful? Show some love by sharing.

Share


We ❤️ Feedback

We would love to hear from you as we continue to build out new features for Lazy! Love the site? Have an idea on how we can improve it? Drop us a line at info@lazy.com

Newsletter #139

Newsletter #139

This week’s featured collector is Akkileish

Akkileish’s collection is a pastiche of styles ranging from Wild West figures to cyberpunk characters, highlighting a blend of historical and futuristic themes. The collection features techniques ranging from stark monochrome to vivid neon, suggesting an appreciation for aesthetic complexity. Check it out at lazy.com/akkileish


Let’s thaw the NFT winter together… Share this newsletter with your friends!

Share


The results of last week’s poll: How frequently do you seek out news and updates on NFTs?

A significant majority, 44%, reported they rarely seek out news about NFTs. A notable minority, 31%, report doing so a few times a week, suggesting an enduring but not daily interest. Only 6% check daily, which points to a smaller core of highly engaged individuals. The absence of any respondents who check multiple times a day could imply that Lazy users do not see the NFT market and/or news cycle as warranting constant attention. The results of this poll suggest that the NFT community has varied levels of engagement, with a substantial portion not actively seeking frequent updates, which could reflect the ongoing NFT bear market or a preference for less frequent, substantial news over constant, incremental updates.


Frame: A Royalty-Focused NFT Blockchain is Launched

Frame

Two weeks ago, we covered the launch of RARI Chain, an NFT-focused blockchain that promises to mandate royalties. This week, Frame, a second NFT blockchain designed to protect creator royalties has been launched.

Frame is a Ethereum Layer 2 engineered to prioritize NFT transactions with an emphasis on cost efficiency and speed. Central to Frame is the integration of Palette Protocol, a system purpose-built to administer NFT royalties.

With Palette Protocol, Frame aims to ensure enforcement of NFT royalties. Additionally, Frame will allocate a portion of the fees generated by the blockchain to the Frame Creator Fund, an initiative designed to support and bolster the creative community within its platform, with details on its implementation and governance yet to be disclosed.

With RARI Chain and Frame now in the wild, the battle to become a home for NFT royalties is heating up. Will there be a third contender? Time will tell. In any case, it is increasingly looking like NFT-specific blockchains will be a key component of the next wave of NFT innovation.

China Strategizes to Lead in Web3 Era by Embracing NFTs

A recent statement by China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology suggests the country is advancing efforts to develop and integrate Web3 technologies, with a special focus on the NFTs. The statement argues that China’s approach to Web3 development places significant emphasis on exploring NFTs, as part of its broader strategy to embrace blockchain technologies. This exploration extends to various sectors such as healthcare, education, and tourism, where NFTs are anticipated to play a critical role. Meanwhile, companies are actively contributing to this development, launching digital collectibles and Metaverse-related products that integrate NFT technology.

Until now, China has not played a major role in the global NFT ecosystem. However, if this statement is to be believed then that may be changing in the years ahead.


This week’s poll: How significant do you think China’s impact will be on the global NFT market in 2024?


Thank you for reading Lazy.com’s Newsletter. Was this post helpful? Show some love by sharing.

Share


We ❤️ Feedback

We would love to hear from you as we continue to build out new features for Lazy! Love the site? Have an idea on how we can improve it? Drop us a line at info@lazy.com

Newsletter #138

Newsletter #138

This week’s featured collector is NFTFox

NFTFox’s collection showcases a dynamic blend of themes, from the intense spectacle of a fiery explosion to a nostalgic, graffiti-style nod to classic video games, and surrealistic portrayals. Each piece in their collection captures the essence of NFTs: unpredictable, culturally rich, and boundlessly creative. Check it out at lazy.com/nftfox


Let’s thaw the NFT winter together… Share this newsletter with your friends!

Share


The results of last week’s poll: What do you think about the RARI Chain’s approach to NFT royalties?

The poll results reflect a mostly positive opinion on the RARI Chain’s approach to NFT royalties, with the most significant share of respondents, each at 36%, viewing it as an “Innovative approach” and “Good for artists,” indicating a majority perception that this royalty-mandatory blockchain could be a groundbreaking and beneficial solution for creators. In contrast, only 9% of the participants doubt its potential to become widely accepted, marking it as “Won’t catch on.” A equally small proportion, another 9%, admit to uncertainty, selecting “I’m not sure,” which suggests a need for more information or clarity on the subject. Lastly, the “Something else” option, also at 9%, points to the presence of alternative perspectives or considerations not captured within the poll’s provided choices. Based on this informal poll, it looks like RARI Chain could be onto something.


Where do you get your NFT news? Here are some of our favorite sources.

Navigating the complex and nuanced world of NFTs requires access to current, credible news sources that can keep you up to date with the ever changing intricacies of this digital asset class. For enthusiasts, creators, or stakeholders, it is important to understand the subtle shifts in narratives, legal frameworks, and the technological underpinnings of NFTs.

This week we’re delving into some our favorite sources of news about NFTs.

News Aggregators: OnePageCrypto and LuckyTrader

OnePageCrypto.com is a news site that does exactly what the domain name describes: an ultra-efficient one page website that aggregates news from across the crypto ecosystem, including NFTs. This is a relatively new website and one that we will be keeping tabs on. Another favorite is LuckyTrader.com which features original content about digital assets.

Telegram: NFTek News and NFT Avenue

Telegram is often the place to go for real time updates on NFT news. There are many different channels worth checking out. Two of our favorites are NFTek News for news and NFT Avenue for chat.

Crypto-Native App: Farcaster.xyz

If you’re open to trying something new then give Farcaster a chance. Many well known people in the crypto ecosystem use the app. And because it is still relatively unknown, there are a lot fewer bots and spam.


This week’s poll: How frequently do you seek out news and updates on NFTs?


Thank you for reading Lazy.com’s Newsletter. Was this post helpful? Show some love by sharing.

Share


We ❤️ Feedback

We would love to hear from you as we continue to build out new features for Lazy! Love the site? Have an idea on how we can improve it? Drop us a line at info@lazy.com