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.