"Building for crypto natives is like composing a symphony for a unique audience, while building for the masses is orchestrating a melody for the world." - Vanessa Grellet

Introduction

The landscape of consumer investing is evolving rapidly, especially with the emergence of Web3 technologies. In a recent panel titled "Investing in Web3: The New Consumer Frontier," industry experts convened to discuss the opportunities, challenges, and trends shaping this dynamic sector. Led by moderator Aleksija Vujicic, the panelists delved into various aspects of consumer investing in the context of Web3, offering insights and perspectives crucial for both investors and entrepreneurs navigating this burgeoning space.

Panelists

1. Karen Shen (Investor, Collab+Currency): As an investor at Collab+Currency, Karen brings a wealth of experience in early-stage consumer crypto investments. Her focus on finding the right combination of product, problem, and timing underscores her approach to identifying promising ventures in the Web3 landscape.
2. Vanessa Grellet (Managing Director, Aglaé Venture): Vanessa's role as Managing Director at Aglaé Venture places her at the forefront of early-stage fund management. With a keen eye for innovative projects and a focus on understanding consumer behavior, she provides invaluable insights into the intersection of consumer markets and emerging technologies.
3. Jascha Samadi (Founding Partner, Greenfield): Jascha's expertise as a founding partner at Greenfield lies in exploring the potential of crypto ventures, particularly in Europe. His experience spans both infrastructure and consumer-focused investments, offering a unique perspective on the evolving Web3 landscape.

Key Points

1. Market Dynamics and Valuations: The panelists acknowledged the excitement surrounding the recent developments in the crypto market, including the ETF approval and continued institutional interest. However, they emphasized the importance of maintaining diligence and caution amidst market fluctuations, highlighting the need for thorough research and adherence to investment principles.
2. Consumer Trends and Learnings: Reflecting on recent successes and failures in the consumer space, the panelists explored the dynamics of catering to crypto-native audiences versus mass-market consumers. While projects like FRCH and Forecaster showcased the potential of crypto-native engagement, sustainability remains a challenge, prompting a deeper examination of user behavior and adoption patterns.
3. Token Economics and Speculation: The discussion delved into the role of tokens in consumer projects, with differing views on their efficacy and suitability. While tokens offer incentives and participation in network governance, concerns persist regarding speculative behavior and long-term viability. The panelists emphasized the need for innovative token designs that align with user interests and promote sustainable growth.
4. Emerging Opportunities: Despite the challenges, the panelists expressed optimism about the future of consumer investing in Web3. They highlighted promising areas such as gaming, digital fashion, and e-commerce, where blockchain technology offers novel solutions and disruptive potential. By leveraging insights from past experiences and adapting to market dynamics, investors can capitalize on emerging opportunities in the evolving Web3 landscape.

Conclusion

As the Web3 revolution unfolds, consumer investing stands at the forefront of innovation and disruption. The panel discussion shed light on the intricacies of navigating this dynamic landscape, from market dynamics and valuation concerns to the nuances of token economics and user behavior. Despite the challenges, opportunities abound in sectors like gaming, digital fashion, and e-commerce, offering investors a glimpse into the future of consumer engagement powered by blockchain technology. By embracing innovation, understanding consumer needs, and staying vigilant amidst market fluctuations, investors can chart a course towards success in the new frontier of Web3 consumer investing.

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Watch the full talk here :