The Web3 Watchdogs

Michael Pearl interviews Wee Siang Lee, Executive Director and Head of APAC compliance at Paxos.

They discussed the intersection of compliance, regulation, and innovation in the crypto space.

They also explore Wee-Siang's journey from traditional finance to the crypto world, the role of Paxos in the stablecoin ecosystem, and the regulatory challenges faced by stablecoin issuers.

The conversation also delves into the mechanisms of stablecoin issuance, the importance of operational hygiene in preventing hacks, and the compliance measures necessary for cashing out stablecoins.

Additionally, they discuss the evolving landscape of scams in the crypto industry and the differentiation between Pax Dollar and Pax Gold.

(01:12) Wee Siang's Journey in Compliance
(04:33) Paxos: Infrastructure and Regulatory Framework
(08:46) Regulatory Landscape for Stablecoins
(11:41) Challenges in Multi-Jurisdictional Regulation
(14:56) On-Chain Mechanisms of Stablecoin Issuance
(18:58) Protecting Smart Contracts and Operational Hygiene
(23:25) Compliance Measures for Cashing Out Stablecoins
(27:04) Understanding Scams and Fraud Prevention
(30:46) Differentiating Pax Dollar and Pax Gold

The Podcast is sponsored by Cyvers - the leader in threat prevention and mitigation in Web3, leveraging AI-driven technology to help industry leaders like Binance, Ledger, BitGo, and Crypto[.]com prevent hacks, fraud, scams, and compliance challenges.

Cyvers’s solutions provide pre-emptive protection against malicious activity across the Web3 space.

Learn more at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cyvers.ai⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Michael Pearl interviews Sebastian Heine, Chief Compliance Officer and MLRO for UAE at Mantra Finance.

They discuss the evolving landscape of compliance in the Web3 space, the unique position of Mantra in the blockchain ecosystem, and the importance of regulatory frameworks for tokenization and decentralized finance.

Sebastian shares insights on the role of compliance in ensuring the safety and security of blockchain operations, the challenges of anti-money laundering in DeFi, and the future integration of traditional finance with decentralized finance.

Chapters:(00:30) Introduction

(03:00) Sebastian Heine's Journey in Crypto Compliance

(05:59) Understanding Mantra's Unique Position in the Blockchain Space

(09:00) The Role of Compliance in Decentralized Finance

(11:47) Licensing and Regulatory Framework for Blockchains

(14:47) Managing Risks and Liabilities in Blockchain Operations

(18:09) Anti-Money Laundering Strategies in DeFi

(21:01) Tokenization of Real-World Assets and Legal Implications

(29:59) The Future of DeFi and TradFi IntegrationThe Podcast is sponsored by Cyvers - the leader in threat prevention and mitigation in Web3, leveraging AI-driven technology to help industry leaders like Binance, Ledger, BitGo, and Crypto[.]com prevent hacks, fraud, scams, and compliance challenges.

Cyvers’s solutions provide pre-emptive protection against malicious activity across the Web3 space.

Learn more at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cyvers.ai⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Michael Pearl interviews Alexey Tyupanov, CEO of Shift DeFi.

They discuss Alexey's transition from traditional finance to the decentralized finance (DeFi) space, the unique risks associated with DeFi compared to traditional finance, and the importance of building a robust rating model for DeFi protocols.

Alexey emphasizes the need for improved user experience and trust in the DeFi ecosystem to attract a broader audience.

The conversation also covers operational risks, monitoring strategies, and the future of DeFi as it seeks to bridge the gap with traditional finance.

Topics:(00:30) Introduction to Alexey Tyupanov
(00:59) Journey from Mathematics to Crypto
(04:20) Understanding the DeFi Landscape
(06:02) Building Shift: A Bridge to DeFi
(08:44) Liquidity Provisioning in DeFi
(10:13) Risk Management in DeFi
(21:06) Developing a Rating Model for DeFi(30:48) Monitoring and Reporting in DeFi(35:25) Making DeFi Accessible for Everyone(38:25) The Future of DeFi and User Experience

The Podcast is sponsored by Cyvers - the leader in threat prevention and mitigation in Web3, leveraging AI-driven technology to help industry leaders like Ledger, BitGo, 21Shares, and Crypto[.]com prevent hacks, fraud, scams, and compliance challenges.

Cyvers’s solutions provide pre-emptive protection against malicious activity across the Web3 space.

Learn more at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cyvers.ai⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Michael Pearl interviews Ajinkya Tulpule, Managing Director of bitFlyer Europe. They discuss Ajinkya's transition from a financial regulator to the crypto industry, the compliance-focused ethos of bitFlyer, and the challenges posed by evolving regulations in Europe.

The conversation also touches on security measures, consumer protection, and the potential impact of AI on user experience in crypto exchanges.

(00:00) Introduction to Ajinkya's Journey in Crypto

• (03:26) Transitioning from Regulator to Industry

• (05:27) Overview of BitFlyer and Its Compliance Focus

• (07:08) User Base and Unique Features of BitFlyer

• (10:32) Regulatory Challenges with Stablecoins

• (14:09) Comparing Global Regulatory Approaches

• (18:00) Security Measures and Learning from Competitors

• (20:55) Consumer Protection and Regulatory Accountability

• (28:20) Impact of PSD3 on Crypto Exchanges

• (31:24) The Role of AI in Crypto Exchanges

The Podcast is sponsored by Cyvers - the leader in threat prevention and mitigation in Web3, leveraging AI-driven technology to help industry leaders like Ledger, BitGo, 21Shares, and Crypto[.]com prevent hacks, fraud, scams, and compliance challenges.

Cyvers’s solutions provide pre-emptive protection against malicious activity across the Web3 space.

Learn more at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cyvers.ai⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Michael Pearl interviews James Toledano, COO of Unity Wallet. They discuss the evolution of cryptocurrency, the importance of user-friendly interfaces in wallets, and the integration of AI to enhance user experience.

James shares insights on the features of Unity Wallet, including self-custody, security measures, and the regulatory landscape affecting DeFi.

The conversation highlights the future of non-custodial wallets and the need for seamless usability to promote wider adoption of cryptocurrency.

(00:30) Introduction to James Toledano(03:32) James Toledano's Journey to Unity Wallet(06:37) Understanding Unity Wallet's Features and User Experience(09:36) The Role of AI in Enhancing User Interaction(12:49) Swapping and Staking: Unity Wallet's Core Functions(15:29) Security Measures and User Protection in DeFi(18:44) Navigating Regulatory Challenges in the Crypto Space(22:36) The Future of Non-Custodial Wallets and Innovations(35:18) Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Crypto Adoption

The Podcast is sponsored by Cyvers - the leader in threat prevention and mitigation in Web3, leveraging AI-driven technology to help industry leaders like Ledger, BitGo, 21Shares, and Crypto[.]com prevent hacks, fraud, scams, and compliance challenges.

Cyvers’s solutions provide pre-emptive protection against malicious activity across the Web3 space.

Learn more at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cyvers.ai⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Michael Pearl interviews J.M. Porup, the CISO of Berachain, discussing the critical intersection of Web2 and Web3 security.

They explore the importance of addressing Web2 vulnerabilities to prevent Web3 compromises, the evolving landscape of security in the crypto space, and the implications of high-profile hacks.

J.M. shares insights on the security roles within blockchain projects, the regulatory environment, and the future of stablecoins, emphasizing the need for robust security measures as the industry grows.

Chapters:(02:13) Why Web2 Security Still Matters in Web3
(05:01) Inside Berachain’s Security Philosophy
(10:51) The Real-World Challenges of Web3 Security
(15:21) What CISOs Actually Do in Blockchain Projects
(18:41) Post-Mortem: What Recent Hacks Tell Us
(24:18) The Overlooked Web2 Threats in DeFi
(26:30) Why Compliance ≠ Security
(33:10) Stablecoins, Risk, and the Road Ahead

The Podcast is sponsored by Cyvers - the leader in threat prevention and mitigation in Web3, leveraging AI-driven technology to help industry leaders like Ledger, BitGo, 21Shares, and Crypto[.]com prevent hacks, fraud, scams, and compliance challenges.

Cyvers’s solutions provide pre-emptive protection against malicious activity across the Web3 space.

Learn more at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cyvers.ai⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Michael Pearl interviews Martins Benkitis, co-founder and CEO of Gravity Team.

They discuss the evolution of Gravity, the importance of liquidity in crypto trading, the technology behind their trading operations, and the security risks associated with centralized exchanges.

The conversation also covers the regulatory landscape for market makers, the rise of stablecoins, and the challenges of compliance and transparency in the crypto space.

Chapters:(03:14) Martins Benkitis: Background and Founding Gravity
(05:57) Gravity's Trading Operations and Technology
(08:40) Understanding Market Makers and Liquidity Providers
(11:07) Security Risks in Centralized Exchanges
(15:18) Impact of Hacks on Token Value
(17:54) Regulatory Landscape for Market Makers
(21:12) The Rise of Stablecoins and Market Maker Incentives
(26:08) Future of Stablecoins and Compliance Challenges

The Podcast is sponsored by Cyvers - the leader in threat prevention and mitigation in Web3, leveraging AI-driven technology to help industry leaders like Ledger, BitGo, 21Shares, and Crypto[.]com prevent hacks, fraud, scams, and compliance challenges.

Cyvers’s solutions provide pre-emptive protection against malicious activity across the Web3 space.

Learn more at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cyvers.ai⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Michael Pearl sits down with Ben Grolimund, General Manager of Flipster in the UAE. With over 17 years of experience in fintech and crypto, Ben brings deep insights into the fast-evolving landscape of digital asset trading. The conversation dives into Flipster’s unique approach to derivatives, and why the UAE is emerging as a global crypto hub.

They explore key issues like security best practices, regulatory clarity, and real-time compliance monitoring—critical elements for any serious crypto exchange. Ben also shares his take on the future of stablecoins and how Flipster is positioning itself for continued growth.

Chapters:(01:46) Ben Grolimund's Background and Experience
(03:30) Understanding Flipster's Unique Proposition
(06:39) The Rise of Perpetuals and Derivatives
(11:29) Why the UAE is a Crypto Hub
(15:06) Regulatory Landscape in the UAE
(19:38) Security and Compliance in Crypto Exchanges
(28:27) The Future of Stablecoins

The Podcast is sponsored by Cyvers - the leader in threat prevention and mitigation in Web3, leveraging AI-driven technology to help industry leaders like Ledger, BitGo, 21Shares, and Crypto[.]com prevent hacks, fraud, scams, and compliance challenges.

Cyvers’s solutions provide pre-emptive protection against malicious activity across the Web3 space.

Learn more at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cyvers.ai⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Michael Pearl speaks with Oliver Linch, CEO of Bittrex, about the exchange’s final chapter and what it reveals about the state of regulation, compliance, and trust in Web3.

A seasoned legal mind turned crypto executive, Linch reflects on Bittrex’s pioneering role in advocating for regulatory frameworks long before it was standard.

The conversation covers everything from Bittrex’s emphasis on security and innovation, to the harsh realities of winding down an exchange in today’s turbulent market.

Linch doesn’t shy away from hard truths - calling out the lag in regulation, the persistence of fraud and scams, and the importance of protecting users even during shutdown.

A powerful episode on legacy, accountability, and what it really means to be compliant in crypto.

Chapters:(01:54) Oliver Linch's Background and Transition to CEO
(12:19) Bittrex at Its Prime: A Historical Overview
(18:17) The Evolution of Crypto Exchanges and Regulation
(23:56) Security vs. Regulation: The Ongoing Debate
(29:05) Fraud, Scams, and Consumer Protection in Crypto
(34:08) The Future of Bittrex and Closing Remarks

The Podcast is sponsored by Cyvers - the leader in threat prevention and mitigation in Web3, leveraging AI-driven technology to help industry leaders like Ledger, BitGo, 21Shares, and Crypto[.]com prevent hacks, fraud, scams, and compliance challenges.

Cyvers’s solutions provide pre-emptive protection against malicious activity across the Web3 space.

Learn more at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cyvers.ai⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Michael Pearl interviews Carla Van Sintfiet, the Chief Financial and Risk Officer at Poolder.

Carla shares her unique journey from a background in science to the world of finance and crypto. She discusses the challenges of balancing growth and risk management in the fast-paced DeFi space, the importance of robust AML systems, and how AI is revolutionizing risk management.

Carla emphasizes the need for a hybrid approach to security and compliance, navigating complex global regulations, and fostering a culture of risk awareness within organizations.

Episodes-

• (03:57) Carla's Journey from Science to Finance

• (04:45) Understanding Poolder: A New Crypto Investment Platform

• (06:54) Balancing Growth and Resilience in Risk Management

• (09:44) Mitigating Security Risks in Smart Contracts

• (12:35) Adapting to the Fast-Paced Crypto Environment

• (15:21) Building a Robust AML System

• (18:05) The Role of AI in Risk Management

• (21:07) Assessing Risks in DeFi Protocols

• (23:30) Navigating Global Regulatory Frameworks

• (26:48) Hybrid Approach to Security and Compliance

• (29:01) Fostering a Culture of Risk Awareness

The Podcast is sponsored by Cyvers - the leader in threat prevention and mitigation in Web3, leveraging AI-driven technology to help industry leaders like Ledger, BitGo, 21Shares, and Crypto[.]com prevent hacks, fraud, scams, and compliance challenges.

Cyvers’s solutions provide pre-emptive protection against malicious activity across the Web3 space.

Learn more at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cyvers.ai⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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