Total Value Unlocked - A Hivemind Podcast Crypto Metrics That Matter (Ft. Josh Frank, Co-Founder of The Tie)
In this episode of Total Value Unlocked, Matt Zhang sits down with Josh Frank, Co-Founder and CEO of The Tie, to unpack what data actually matters when trading, building, or allocating in the digital asset space
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They cover:
– The evolution of The Tie from sentiment tracker to data powerhouse
– Why metrics like active addresses and TVL can be misleading
– The role of news and event-driven strategies in generating alpha
– How institutions are (really) engaging with crypto
– And how data + AI are reshaping decision-making across the industry
Links:
Timestamps:
00:20 – Intro to the episode
01:12 – How The Tie was founded
04:12 – Why data infrastructure is foundational in crypto
05:17 – The problem with metrics like “active addresses”
07:17 – Data transparency & how institutions consume data
11:17 – Why crypto is still a narrative-driven market
15:03 – Signals vs. noise in crypto narratives
17:23 – Most overlooked metrics investors should watch
18:32 – Event-driven strategies & post-incentive usage
20:35 – How to build a strong data strategy
22:37 – What institutions are actually doing in crypto
25:47 – The real story behind ETF impact & liquidity
27:42 – What allocators are looking for now
29:49 – A surprising reminder: crypto is still small
33:10 – The Tie’s event strategy
38:03 – Using AI to surface signal in a sea of data
42:12 – What’s still missing in crypto market infrastructure
43:41 – Where to find Josh and The Tie