Keynote 3 Highlights: BlockDAGs $209.5M and 400K Gamers Eclipse Cosmos IBC and Algorands 800K Monthly Users

Cosmos and Algorand, two notable Layer 1 projects, began with solid academic foundations and ambitious technical goals. Each has addressed major issues such as scalability, efficiency, and interoperability with mixed results. Despite their technical strengths, both have encountered challenges in building momentum and market performance.

BlockDAG (BDAG), on the other hand, has achieved global recognition not only through technical advancements but also through effective delivery, transparency, and engaging with users. With over $209.5 million secured in its presale, BlockDAG exemplifies what it means to gain real ground in the Layer 1 blockchain space.

Cosmos: Leading the Charge in Blockchain Interoperability

Cosmos, created by Jae Kwon and Ethan Buchman in 2014, aimed to solve the challenges of blockchain interoperability. In 2017, the project secured $17 million through an initial coin offering (ICO), setting the stage for its development. By March 2019, the Cosmos Hub mainnet was live, a key achievement in linking different blockchains.

Financially, Cosmos has drawn significant funds, including a $55 million Series B round led by Paradigm in 2019 and a $10 million investment led by 1confirmation in 2020. By the end of 2024, the staking ratio of its native token, ATOM, ranged from 54.1% to 65.71%, with 232.16 million ATOM staked. Over that year, ATOMs market capitalization moved between $1.43 billion and $5.5 billion, closing at $2.43 billion.

Algorand: Advancing Blockchain Efficiency

Established by MIT professor Silvio Micali in 2017, Algorand focuses on improving blockchain scalability and security. In June 2019, its mainnet and native token, ALGO, debuted, with the initial coin offering setting the price at $2.40 per token.

Technically, Algorand uses a Pure Proof-of-Stake (PPoS) consensus mechanism, which allows for fast transaction processing with minimal staking requirements, fostering greater decentralization. By June 2024, the network had processed over two billion transactions, including a record 43 million in a single day on January 1, 2024. The first quarter of 2024 saw a 288% increase in transactions over the previous quarter, with the network reaching 35 million total accounts and maintaining an average of 800,000 monthly active users.

Nevertheless, ALGOs market performance has been problematic. As of March 26, 2025, ALGO was priced at $0.21, down 22.38% over the past year and a steep decline from its peak of $4.77 in 2019. Its market capitalization was $1.84 billion.

BlockDAGs $209.5M Journey: Beyond Just Numbers

BlockDAGs impressive $209.5 million from its presale isnt merely a financial milestone; it reflects a widespread commitment to reliability. In a sector often overwhelmed by exaggerated claims, BlockDAG distinguishes itself by actually fulfilling its promises. From deploying nearly 10,000 X-series miners to integrating over 800,000 users with the X1 Miner App and engaging 400,000+ gamers in the TG Tap Miner game, BlockDAG offers tangible experiences, not just speculative potential.

Currently, BlockDAG is in the 27th batch of its presale, priced at $0.0248 per coin, representing a stunning 2,380% growth from the first batch, highlighting the early backers‘ faith in the project’s execution. So far, over 19 billion coins have been distributed, signifying not only volume but also robust momentum.

The driving force behind this progress is the community. Over 100,000 members active in BlockDAGs channels are not mere spectators; they are integral participants, testnet node operators, miners, and pioneers. Their involvement is key, making the presale not only feasible but also successful.

This narrative isn‘t centered on fundraising; it’s about building trust. Its about individuals supporting a project not just for its promise but for its consistent presence and meaningful impact. This is what sets this presale apart. This is what makes BlockDAG authentic.

Execution and Engagement: The Cornerstones of Successful Layer 1 Projects

Cosmos and Algorand have established significant technical foundations, advancing discussions around scalability and interoperability of Layer 1 projects. Yet, their paths illustrate that addressing technical puzzles is only a fraction of the success formula—effective execution, community involvement, and tangible results are equally critical.

Here, BlockDAG differentiates itself. Its substantial fundraising, extensive coin distribution, and active community participation are not mere statistics; they epitomize successful delivery. In an industry rife with lofty plans and unmet expectations, BlockDAG serves as a reminder that the real measure of success in Layer 1 blockchain development hinges on consistent, reliable delivery.