Eli Ben-Sasson

This week on The Defiant Podcast we speak with Uri Kolodny and Eli Ben-Sasson, the co-founders of Starkware, one of the leading Layer 2 scaling solutions for Ethereum. Post Merge, Ethereum continues to rely on scaling solutions like Starkware and will continue to do so, according to the network’s long-term roadmap. Visa processes 1700 transactions per second, and that number is often quoted as the Holy Grail for a blockchain to become a viable settlement layer for finance. They explain how that can be achieved with the help of Starkware. In the early stages of building Starkware, Uri and Eli had decided not to launch a token. After two years of running Starkware and StarkNet being in alpha, is a STARK token on the horizon? Currently, Starkware is solely used for scaling Ethereum. We talk about Uri and Eli’s plans to expand Starkware’s services to other Layer 1s. Finally, we discuss the future of scaling solutions, decentralized applications, DeFi, NFTs, and more. 🙏 Thanking our podcast sponsors: 1inch is a DEX aggregator that finds the best rates across multiple networks. Why use a single DEX when you can use them all? Find your best deal at 1inch. ZenGo is a crypto wallet that uses biometric encryption, 3FA authentication and MPC  wallet cryptography instead of private keys. Aleo is enabling developers to build their own private and scalable apps. Currently in their third incentivized testnet phase, you can find more information at https://leo-lang.org/ Oasis.app aims to be the most trusted entry point to the Maker Protocol and to DeFi. You can borrow DAI, multiply your exposure and earn. Try it Now!

Eli Ben-Sasson and Uri Kolodny, co-founders of StarkWare, dive into the explosive growth of the zkEVM ecosystem and the recent StarkNet token announcement. They discuss StarkNet’s unique advantages in scaling Ethereum, primarily through the use of Cairo language. The guests emphasize their long-term commitment to Ethereum and outline the strategic importance of stability in the crypto space. They also cover the token allocation process and its role in fostering a developer-focused community amidst market challenges.

Eli Ben-Sasson, co-founder and CEO of Starkware, dives into the details of StarkNet's unprecedented airdrop in this engaging discussion. He explains the rationale behind the allocation of $STRK tokens, particularly the significant share to Ethereum solo stakers. Eli addresses criticisms regarding token distribution and the timing of the Token Generation Event, asserting that even with an imminent unlock, incentives remain aligned. Listeners gain insights into Starkware's commitment to community engagement and the evolving landscape of decentralized networks.

Eli Ben-Sasson, Co-founder of StarkWare, discusses scaling Ethereum with ZK proofs and validity rollups. Topics include: ZK-VMs vs ZK-EVMs, computational integrity, on-chain gaming, decentralizing the sequencer, quantum-resistant proof systems.

Uri Kolodny and Eli Ben-Sasson, co-founders of StarkWare, dive into the fascinating world of StarkNet. They share insights on the evolution of decentralized governance, likening it to nurturing a child, while highlighting the importance of community in shaping the network's future. Reflecting on their journey, they discuss the impact of personal connections on innovation and resilience during crises. Expect intriguing predictions about the growth of blockchain technology and a vision for a vibrant, collaborative ecosystem.

Hong Kim, from the Core Network, aims to enhance Bitcoin's capital efficiency, while Eli Ben-Sasson of StarkWare seeks to unite the Bitcoin and Ethereum communities. Jeff Garzik, a longstanding Bitcoin developer and founder of Hemi, shares insights on building in Bitcoin's ecosystem. They discuss the rising use cases for Bitcoin L2s, the importance of interoperability, and innovative lending solutions. Delving into the path to mass adoption, they consider Bitcoin's dual nature as a reserve asset and a powerful DeFi player, exploring user-friendly applications and the future of crypto.

Eli Ben-Sasson, co-founder and CEO of StarkWare, brings his expertise in zero-knowledge proofs to a critical discussion about Bitcoin's future. He emphasizes the dangers of Bitcoin ossification, warning that without scaling solutions like OP_CAT, it may become a luxury item accessible only to the wealthy. The conversation delves into Starknet's integration with Bitcoin, quantum computing threats, and innovative solutions like Collider Script to enhance decentralized finance. Eli insists that continuous innovation is essential to keep Bitcoin relevant and accessible.

Eli Ben-Sasson, Co-founder and CEO of Starkware, and Diego Oliva, CEO of the StarkNet Foundation, join the discussion on the highly anticipated launch of the Stark token, $STRK. They delve into the unprecedented distribution to 1.3 million eligible wallets, emphasizing decentralization's role in community engagement. The conversation sheds light on token utility for transaction fees, staking provisions, and the significance of StarkNet's unique positioning compared to other layer twos. Exciting developments in the ecosystem and upcoming events are also highlighted.

Uri Kolodny and Eli Ben-Sasson, co-founders of StarkWare, delve into the revolutionary zkRollups that are enhancing Ethereum’s scalability. They discuss the recent $50 million funding round and how StarkEx is powering significant platforms like dYdX. The duo explains the intricacies of StarkNet’s rollout and the importance of balancing decentralization with operational efficiency. They also highlight the transformative potential of ZK technology in reshaping the blockchain landscape and fostering self-sovereign work in decentralized finance.

Antonio Juliano, founder of dYdX, and Eli Ben-Sasson, co-founder of StarkWare, dive into the scaling of dYdX on Ethereum layer 2. They discuss the innovative cross-margin perpetual trading and the distinction between ZK-rollups and optimistic rollups. The duo reveals StarkWare can handle an impressive 300,000 transactions per second! They also explore why scalability trumps composability and the importance of Chainlink as oracle provider. Lastly, they touch on the exciting developments ahead for both companies and the future of decentralized finance.