Credibly Neutral Infrastructure vs Opinionated Chains

This week, we discuss why Blockworks decided to shut down its news room. We then dive into why 2025 marks the start of a new chapter for the crypto industry, why we're still in a bull market, MegaETH's ICO, recent IPOs, M&A and more. Enjoy!

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Crypto-native institutions and developers demand institutional-grade infrastructure with regulatory clarity and full asset control. Blockdaemon's Earn Stack is a non-custodial platform combining high-performance staking rewards and seamless DeFi integration with no intermediate smart contract or vaults.

Programmatically access leading Ethereum & Solana staking rewards, plus DeFi opportunities across lending protocols, DEXs, and AMMs. Book a Demo!

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Katana is a DeFi-first chain built for deep liquidity and high yield. No empty emissions, just real yield and sequencer fees routed back to DeFi users.

Pre-deposit now: Earn high APRs with Turtle Club [https://app.turtle.club/campaigns/katana] or spin the wheel with Katana Krates [https://app.katana.network/krates]

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Mantle is pioneering ""Blockchain for Banking"" as a revolutionary new category that sits at the intersection of TradFi and web3.

Key elements for Mantle as the ""Blockchain for Banking"":

- Transactions posted to the blockchain

- Compatibility with TradFi rails

- Integrated DeFi features

Mantle Network, the access layer — transforms Mantle Network into a purpose-built vertical platform — the blockchain for banking — that enables financial services on-chain. Mantle leads the establishment of Blockchain for Banking as the next frontier.

Follow Mantle on X (@Mantle_Official) for the latest updates on Mantle as the 'Blockchain for Banking'.

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(00:00) Introduction

(01:20) Why Blockworks Closed The News Division

(13:27) Blockdaemon Ad

(14:04) Katana Ad

(14:52) The Next Chapter For Blockworks

(20:48) It’s Still A Bull Market

(25:12) Securitize Plans To Go Public At a $1.25B Valuation

(31:16) Blockdaemon Ad

(31:53) Katana Ad

(32:39) Western Union Announces USDPT

(51:25) Mantle Ad

(52:22) Mastercard Looks To Acquire Zerohash

(01:00:03) Will Stripe's Tempo Be a Success?

(01:06:17) The MegaETH ICO

(01:09:44) Content Of The Week

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Disclaimer: Nothing said on Empire is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Santiago, Jason, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.