204: Building the First Regulated EVM Chain: Dima and Vytautas Discuss Zekret and DeFi Compliance

In this episode of Web3 with Sam Kamani, I interview Dima and Vytautas, co-creators and CTO and CEO of Zekret, the first privacy-preserving EVM chain built with regulatory compliance at its core. We discuss: How Zekret is designed for the upcoming MiCA regulations in Europe. The challenges of balancing decentralization, privacy, and compliance in DeFi. Why meme coin creators, market makers, and DeFi projects need to rethink their strategies. Zekret’s roadmap, node structure, and plans to onboard existing DeFi communities. If you’re building or investing in DeFi, this episode is packed with insights on navigating regulation, ensuring compliance, and preserving the essence of Web3. Key Timestamps [00:00:00] Introduction: Sam introduces Dima and Vytautas, co-founders of Zekret, and the focus on regulation in DeFi. [00:01:00] What is Zekret? A privacy-preserving, EVM-compatible chain built for regulatory compliance. [00:02:00] Founders’ Background: Dima’s journey as a software engineer and Vytautas’ experience in cryptography and blockchain advocacy. [00:03:00] Current Stage: Zekret is launching its testnet in Q1 2024 and mainnet in May 2024. [00:04:00] Why Regulation Matters: MiCA regulations in Europe and their global implications. How Zekret ensures compliance for projects and users. [00:06:00] Impact on Meme Coins and Market Makers: The shift from unregulated to responsible token launches. Challenges for market makers under stricter rules. [00:08:00] Zekret’s Approach: EVM compatibility for seamless adoption. Focus on onboarding entire DeFi communities to Zekret’s ecosystem. [00:10:00] Roadmap and Challenges: Building secure node infrastructure and launching testnets. Attracting early adopters and ensuring a smooth go-to-market strategy. [00:12:00] Foundation Structure: Plans to set up a decentralized foundation for ecosystem growth. Regional incentives to promote crypto adoption and development. [00:14:00] The Future of DeFi under MiCA: How regulations will reshape market making and token launches. Why compliant infrastructure like Zekret is essential for survival. [00:18:00] The Ask: Partnerships with DeFi and gaming communities, and collaboration with regulators to shape the future of Web3. Connect https://www.zekret.xyz/ https://x.com/ZekretProtocol https://www.linkedin.com/in/ministras/ https://x.com/vytautaskaseta Disclaimer Nothing mentioned in this podcast is investment advice and please do your own research. Finally, it would mean a lot if you can leave a review of this podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and share this podcast with a friend. Be a guest on the podcast or contact us - https://www.web3pod.xyz/