In this podcast episode of the Token Warrant, host Mike Zajko is joined by Mack, who leads strategy at Metaplex Foundation, and James, co-founder of Modular. Together they discuss the evolution and impact of the Metaplex protocol within the Solana ecosystem. Mack shares his journey into the crypto space and the foundation's response to the FTX collapse, highlighting the rise of liquid tokens and the development of key products like compressed NFTs and the Aura Network. James provides insights into the liquid fund landscape, emphasizing the importance of product-market fit and the shift towards application-focused innovations. 

01:35 James introduces himself and the Modular story

04:00 The Crypto liquid fund landscape and evolution of the investment class

07:30 Mack introduces Metaplex and it's role within the Solana NFT ecosystem along with his journey into crypto

12:36 Mack reflects on the challenges during the bear market post-FTX.

17:00 Modular's struggles raising a fund post FTX collapse

19:00 Metaplex's use cases from memecoins to gaming to DePIN and a detailed look at Pump.fun

22:30 Speculative use cases for NFTs vs. more utility based NFTs

27:49 Overview of Metaplex's rapid product development during the bear market and its impact on the ecosystem.

29:30 James shares insights into Modular's investment process and developing the Metaplex thesis.

35:00 The diverse base of backers of Metaplex, from Michael Jordan to Modular

37:30 Modular's approach to discovering potential investments

40:00 Metaplex's Solana roadmap and the Aura network 

46:00 Changes in liquid token markets and the shift towards product focus

52:00 Predictions for the focus on applications that achieve product-market fit in 2025

Links
https://www.metaplex.com/
https://www.modularcapital.xyz/team

Twitter Accounts
https://x.com/DegenMack
https://x.com/jamesjho_

Token Warrant
https://x.com/tokenwarrant
https://x.com/MikeZajko
https://x.com/reganbozman
https://www.lattice.fund/

The token warrant podcast and content posted by Lattice Capital Management ("Lattice") is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user’s own risk. Lattice and all featured guests and speakers are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. It is not intended to be used for legal or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host , guests or the management at any given time.