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When Shift Happens Podcast

E117: WalletConnect Founder: Why Your Digital Identity Will Replace Your Passport

Apr 17, 2025
Pedro Gomes, founder of WalletConnect, shares his vision for the future where blockchain addresses will surpass passports in importance. He discusses the potential monopolies that wallets could create if not standardized and how national identities are becoming less relevant. Insights on the evolving role of stablecoins in commerce reveal their efficiency in transactions. Gomes highlights the rise of personal brands in a digital world and reflects on the need for openness and collaboration in the rapidly changing crypto landscape.
01:36:10

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The future of digital interactions suggests that blockchain addresses could replace traditional passports, emphasizing individual autonomy beyond national borders.
  • The importance of establishing standards in the digital wallet ecosystem is essential to prevent monopolies and foster a competitive environment.

Deep dives

The Need for Wallet Interoperability

The future of financial interactions is strongly tied to the interoperability of digital wallets. A monopoly in digital wallets leads to a market stifling innovation and growth, creating a situation where one wallet dominates and restricts development. Sharing market space among different wallets is not counterproductive; rather, it allows the market ecosystem to expand, ultimately providing benefits to users. The essence of Wallet Connect is to bridge these wallets and ensure they can work together, fostering an environment built on collaboration and mutual growth.

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