Gm! This week we're joined by Michael Sonnenshein to discuss the future of tokenization. We deep dive into the launch of BUIDL: crypto's largest tokenized fund, institutional demand to build on Solana, Ripple's $1.25b acquisition & more. Enjoy!

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Michael: https://x.com/Sonnenshein

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Zenrock is a permissionless, decentralized custody network backed by 1RoundTable Partners, 10T, Maven11, and Spartan. Live on Jupiter, $ROCK is the native token for transactions within the Zenrock ecosystem and secures Zenrock’s decentralized custody network.

The first application launching on Zenrock is zenBTC – yield-bearing Bitcoin on Solana. zenBTC will be live in April 2025. Visit zenbtc.io to learn about earning yield with Bitcoin on Solana.

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Grab your tickets to Permissionless IV. Use code LIGHTSPEED10 for 10% off: https://blockworks.co/event/permissionless-iv

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(00:00) Introduction

(04:02) Launching The BUIDL Fund

(06:29) Working With Ethena

(09:49) Zenrock Ad

(10:32) Tokenization

(16:27) Institutional Demand To Build On Solana

(19:22) DeFi’s Breakout Moment

(23:48) Crypto Payments

(26:47) Should We Tokenize Everything?

(30:17) Zen Rock Ad

(31:01) Ripple’s $1.25b Hidden Road Acquisition

(32:50) Final Thoughts

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Disclaimers: Lightspeed was kickstarted by a grant from the Solana Foundation.

Nothing said on Lightspeed is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Mert, Jack, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.