Web3 for Business – by 51 Insights

Marc Baumann

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TECHNOLOGY
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We talk with corporate leaders and innovators about how corporates & consumer brands can leverage Web3 & emerging tech to engage consumers, grow their business, and build the future of commerce. www.51insights.xyz

11 HR. AGO

Web3 Gaming, AI & The Rise of Telegram

Hi, it’s Marc. ✌️ “The hype around Web3 gaming really outpaced the product delivery. Many teams prioritized token launches over actually building fun games. Games are actually B2C products. It has to be fun. It’s not necessarily about tokens and being able to earn in games.” We sat down with Anton Umnov, Founder and CEO of Helika, to discuss the future of Web3 gaming, AI, and the rise of Telegram as a gaming powerhouse. With over 15 years of experience in data analytics across fintech and crypto, Anton built Helika, a leading Web3 gaming analytics platform. On the role of social gaming & mini-apps, Anton said: “The biggest Web3 games will emerge from mini-app ecosystems like Telegram, TikTok, and Line—not traditional app stores.” Here’s what we’ve covered: * Evolution of Web3 gaming: In the last cycle, many Web3 games rushed to launch tokens instead of building actual gameplay. Now, the focus has shifted to creating engaging, player-first experiences that can compete with traditional games. The industry is learning that fun must come before financial incentives. * Telegram is the new gaming powerhouse: With 1B+ users, Telegram’s mini-apps are becoming the fastest, lowest-cost way to scale Web3 games. These games benefit from frictionless onboarding, viral sharing mechanics, and built-in social engagement, making Telegram a low-cost, high-growth alternative to traditional app stores. * AI in game development: AI is shortening development cycles from 3-5 years to just 12-18 months by automating in-game economy balancing, NPC behaviors, and real-time A/B testing. AI-powered agents will adjust difficulty, create personalized experiences, and enhance monetization strategies dynamically. And much more. The future of gaming is a fusion of AI, Web3, and social-driven distribution models. Games won’t just be played—they’ll be owned, evolved, and monetized in real-time. 🚨 Mark your calendars: On February 6th 12:00PM EST we’ll host a panel on: * How The Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA) increased member spend with sponsors by 40%, generated 1M+ loyalty transactions in just two months with millions in additional revenue. * How Karate Kombat built a global sports league with millions of fans bey turning their marketing budget into direct incentives for fans, pioneering a model that every sports club (and brand!) can adopt. With top-tier speakers: * Robert Bryan (Founder Karate Kombat) * Michael Chock (Chief Strategy Officer, Smart Media Technologies), * Mark Epps (Director Comms & Web3, ATP Tour) * John Timoney-Gomez(Co-Founder Uptop) Attendees we’ll receive early-bird access to our biggest report yet on fan engagement across sport & entertainment with Web3 tech. 🚨 Secure your spot & report below, spots are limited! 👇 Key Take-Aways for Brand Leaders * Web3 gaming is maturing: Web3 gaming over-promised and under-delivered in the last bull cycle. Brands and investors should bet on game studios prioritizing engagement over speculation—the next 12-24 months will be crucial. * PRO TIP: Track Telegram mini-app adoption as an early indicator of Web3 gaming’s next breakout successes. * Adopt AI and optimise: Traditional AAA games take 3-5 years to build. AI and blockchain infrastructure are cutting this down to 12-18 months by automating game balancing, NPC behavior, and A/B testing. * PRO TIP: Studios should integrate AI-driven procedural generation and real-time player analytics to accelerate development and optimize monetization. * Telegram as the App Store of Web3 games: Telegram has 1B+ users, and Web3 gaming is taking off through its mini-app ecosystem. First-gen Telegram games (Notcoin, Katiz) proved the model—now, mid-core+ games are launching. Web3 game developers and brands should prioritize Telegram mini-apps—they offer the fastest user onboarding and lowest marketing costs. * PRO TIP: Use Telegram-native viral mechanics (stickers, social sharing, tokenized rewards) to bootstrap adoption at near-zero cost. * Web3 Gaming = Fintech in disguise: Web3 games are embedding staking, lending, and DeFi mechanics inside gameplay. This creates sticky user engagement and makes gaming wallets a financial hub beyond just in-game purchases. * PRO TIP: Brands should treat Web3 gaming as an entry point into next-gen fintech—gaming wallets could become the Venmo of Gen Z. * Move beyond US: Korea has higher crypto adoption than the U.S., and major studios there are already integrating blockchain. MENA (Middle East & North Africa) governments are creating regulatory sandboxes to attract Web3 game developers. Studios should localize incentives for Asian & MENA audiences—financialization matters more to these markets than to Western gamers. * Community co-creation: Unlike traditional gaming, where AAA studios build in stealth, Web3 games require constant player feedback and iteration. Successful Web3 games treat early adopters as stakeholders, not just customers. * PRO TIP: Game studios should launch early betas, use Discord/Telegram for real-time community feedback, and adapt mechanics in response to user behavior. The future is AI + Web3 + Social Virality → where games evolve in real time, monetization is adaptive, and global adoption scales through messaging apps, not app stores. Tune in to dive deeper into Anton’s Web3 gaming strategy. That’s all for now. Marc & Team This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.51insights.xyz/subscribe

35 min
12/16/2024

The Future of Luxury: Blockchain, Digital Passports, and Hyper-Personalization

Hi, it’s Marc. ✌️ "Blockchain is not a magic wand you plug in. It requires a mindset change—it’s a paradigm that demands adaptation to decentralisation for it to work effectively." We sat down with Pedro Lopez-Belmonte Eraso, Web3 & tech innovation expert, to discuss use-cases of Web3 technology in the luxury sector. With 11+ years of experience in the luxury industry including building Richemont Group’s blockchain tech strategy for the past 6 years, Pedro explained why blockchain is not just a technology but a paradigm shift. Richemont is a Switzerland-based luxury goods holding company with operations into three main divisions: jewelry maisons, watches, and fashion and accessories. In 2021, its maison Cartier partnered with LVMH, and Prada to launch Aura Blockchain Consortium for luxury brands. The platform uses blockchain to ensure transparency, traceability, and proof of authenticity for consumers. On Digital Product Passports, Pedro said: "Digital passports are one of the most relevant blockchain use cases. They will enable interactions with third-party services, such as reselling, recycling, and insurance, at minimal cost." Here’s what we’ve covered: * DPPs: Luxury watches with digital passports can increase resale value by up to 30% while strengthening customer loyalty. * Embrace Ecosystems: Instead of building proprietary blockchain solutions, plug into established ecosystems like Ethereum or Polygon to reduce costs and unlock scalability. * Educate Your Team: Schedule quarterly workshops to ensure leadership understands blockchain’s potential beyond NFTs. And much more. The luxury sector is still at the beginning of its blockchain journey. Blockchain isn’t just about technology—it’s about a mindset shift. To succeed, brands must adapt to decentralization and adopt standards that allow interoperability. While some companies chase trends, the most successful brands focus on utility, customer empowerment, and long-term value creation. Here’s how you can stay ahead. Key Take-Aways for Brand Leaders * Shift to Utility: The future of blockchain lies in digital passports, loyalty programs, and pre-owned marketplaces—not collectibles. By 2025, shift 50% of your blockchain projects from collectibles to utility-based applications. * PRO TIP: Measure success with metrics like retention rate and engagement frequency, not speculative sales. * Embrace Ecosystems Over Proprietary Systems: Blockchain ecosystems (e.g., Polygon, Ethereum) offer scalability and cost-efficiency by integrating third-party services like recycling and resale. Partner with 3-5 ecosystem players within 12 months to test interoperable use cases. * PRO TIP: Use plug-and-play platforms to accelerate implementation while maintaining control. * Digital Product Passports: Digital passports enhance lifecycle tracking, resale value, and personalization. Done right, they can boost resale value by up to 30%. * PRO TIP: Pair passports with an interactive app for customers to track repairs, upgrades, or ownership history. * Build a Scalable Program: Blockchain records every product interaction, enabling deeper customer relationships. Create an NFT-based loyalty program where customers earn rewards for product usage or participation in events. * PRO TIP: Automate rewards through smart contracts, cutting program management costs by 20-30%. * Avoid NFT Mistakes: Porsche’s NFT project failed due to poor value delivery, while IWC’s Diamond Hand Club succeeded by airdropping free tokens and building community value. Avoid upfront charges for NFTs. Start with free airdrops and focus on exclusive benefits like VIP events. * PRO TIP: Use token-gated experiences to engage loyal customers. * Data Potential with Blockchain: Blockchain offers high-quality, privacy-focused data collection. Brands can offer 10-20% discounts or perks to incentivize customers to share behavioural data securely. * PRO TIP: Build a blockchain-based data dashboard to monitor customer trends while ensuring compliance. Blockchain isn’t just technology. If applied correctly, it can redefine customer relationships. Leaders who embrace ecosystems, focus on utility, and adapt their mindset will unlock opportunities others can’t see. As Pedro Lopez-Bajmonte said: “Blockchain is not a tool; it’s a paradigm shift. Brands need to give up some control to gain transparency, trust, and scalability.” Tune in to dive deeper into Pedro’s Web3 strategy. That’s all for now. Thanks, Marc & Team ▶️Top Podcasts: Find our other podcasts here: * Spotify * Apple Podcasts * Youtube ⚡️ Work With Us & Reach 50k+ Corporate Leaders Our industry OGs, vast network, research team & 50k+ B2B audience help you: * Co-publish enterprise-grade reports with us, driving traffic and boosting B2B outbound conversion rates. * Execute a multi-channel growth campaign that delivers better results than anything else in Web3's consumer space. This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.51insights.xyz/subscribe

45 min
12/10/2024

ATP Tour’s Web3 Playbook

Hi, it’s Marc. ✌️ "We learned the hard way: keep things simple. Overcomplicating propositions alienates fans. When we stripped it back this year, we smashed our targets." We sat down with Mark Epps, Director of Communications and Web3 at ATP Tour, who shared insights into the organization’s Web3 journey, the successes of its recent Momentum Drop activation, and its vision for the future of fan engagement. In November 2024, the ATP Tour launched Momentum, offering fans 15 free, match-specific digital collectibles at the ATP Finals. These data-driven NFTs use match metrics to visualize player momentum, blending storytelling with fan engagement—no crypto jargon, just exclusive digital experiences. Tennis has 1B fans, yet fewer than 1% attend events each year. The rest are intermediated by broadcasters or social media platforms. The result? * Limited fan data: ATP struggles to understand fan preferences and behaviors. * Missed sponsor opportunities: Without direct relationships, sponsors lack effective ways to connect with fans. Momentum Drop—the ATP’s latest Web3 activation—addresses these challenges. In November 2024, the ATP Tour launched Momentum at the ATP Finals in Turin. The activation offered fans 15 match-specific digital collectibles, visualizing player momentum using match data. * No crypto jargon: The experience was Web3-powered but it felt familiar and simple to use. * Time-sensitive claims: Fans had just 24 hours to collect each item, creating urgency and retention. Results That Speak Volumes: Momentum Drop shattered expectations. * 75K participants: Far exceeding expectations for sign-ups. * 10 collectibles claimed per fan (on average): Fans returned five times during the event, demonstrating high retention. * 25K fans claimed all 15 items: A testament to the stickiness of the experience. * 87% opt-in rate for marketing: Over 65K fans opted into ATP communications—proof of deep engagement. "The numbers blew our minds," said Epps. "It was proof that tennis has a passionate cohort of fans who want their engagement recognized and rewarded." Here’s what we’ve covered: * Scarcity drives action: Fans respond to time-limited, high-value activations. * Simplicity scales: Overcomplication derails adoption—strip experiences down to the essentials. * Build for sponsors: Sponsors demand measurable ROI. Web3 creates new opportunities for granular insights and high-value engagements. * Centralize the fan journey: Unify touchpoints (e.g., ticketing, merch, social) to enhance personalization and lifetime value. * Proof matters: Use early wins to validate hypotheses and secure internal buy-in for long-term projects. And much more. AI Mastery: Your Business Can't Wait Tired of AI investments that don't deliver? Stop wasting time - and start generating immediate ROI with AI. "The AI Process Playbook for Business" shows you how to transform your operations with battle-tested frameworks and practical generative AI workflows. From first prompt to full implementation, fast-track your AI advantage today. On why Web3 isn't overhyped, Mark said: "It's tough to say it’s overhyped when we haven’t seen that many sticky and sustainable use cases yet. For us, Web3 is a pragmatic tool to solve a clear business problem—not about dropping random NFT collections to extract value from audiences." Key Take-Aways for Brand Leaders * Unlock billions of fans globally: Traditional engagement relies on intermediaries (e.g., social media, broadcasters), limiting direct relationships and monetization. Build direct-to-fan platforms that collect meaningful fan data while reducing dependency on third-party platforms. * PRO TIP: Start with a Fan ID system—a decentralized digital identity that follows fans across interactions (e.g., ticketing, merch, digital activations). * Experimentation yields growth: Success requires iteration. Early wins build credibility, while “failures” provide data to refine future activations. Adopt a test-and-learn mindset—validate concepts through small pilots, then scale once KPIs align. * PRO TIP: Simplicity is non-negotiable. Keep experiences frictionless, especially when introducing new tech. * Retention wins through gamification: Fans engage more deeply when there’s scarcity and a clear incentive to return. Use scarcity and completion-based rewards to drive repeat engagement. * PRO TIP: Design collectible systems that reward consistency—think streak bonuses or milestone achievements. * Data-driven fan engagement: Personalized rewards and engagement strategies increase loyalty and lifetime value. Leverage blockchain to build fan profiles based on on-chain activity. Reward loyalty with tokenized benefits or exclusive access. * PRO TIP: Use token-gated activations (e.g., premium merch drops, sponsor perks) to deepen connections with superfans. * Scaling through iteration: A single, centralized engagement platform builds consistency across events while creating scalable systems. Identify fragmented fan ecosystems within your brand and integrate them under a single platform. * PRO TIP: Partner with scalable blockchain solutions that offer speed, cost-efficiency, and high-volume transaction support. ATP’s approach shows how Web3 is more than a tech trend—it’s a strategic enabler for deeper fan connections, actionable data, and scalable engagement models. What’s Next ATP plans to scale Momentum Drop across its year-long tour calendar, creating a Fan ID system that unifies engagement across platforms—from tickets to merchandise. The takeaway? Web3 isn’t just hype. For ATP, it’s solving business challenges while building deeper connections with fans and sponsors alike. Tune in to dive deeper into ATP’s Web3 strategy. That’s all for now. Thanks, Marc & Team ▶️Top Podcasts: Find our other podcasts here: * Spotify * Apple Podcasts * Youtube ⚡️ Work With Us & Reach 50k+ Corporate Leaders Our industry OGs, vast network, research team & 50k+ B2B audience help you: * Co-publish enterprise-grade reports with us, driving traffic and boosting B2B outbound conversion rates. * Execute a multi-channel growth campaign that delivers better results than anything else in Web3's consumer space. This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.51insights.xyz/subscribe

36 min
12/03/2024

Trace-ing the Unknown: Tareq’s Blueprint for Fan Loyalty

Hi, it’s Marc. ✌️ “NFTs are like bricks—just because the hype settles doesn’t mean they won’t build the next great structures.” We sat down with Tareq Nazlawy, Co-founder and CEO at Trace, to explore how sports teams, brands, and leagues can turn cultural capital into measurable value. With a career spanning Adidas, Science Magic Studios, and now Trace, Tarek brings a unique perspective to the intersection of culture, commerce, and technology. Trace turns unknown sports fans into an addressable audience through time-limited digital memorabilia, creating deeper engagement. It enables IPs to gain first-party data, sponsors get targeted exposure, and fans are rewarded with recognition and exclusive experiences. Recently, Trace teamed up with the ATP Tour to launch Momentum, offering fans 15 free, match-specific digital collectibles at the ATP Finals. These data-driven NFTs use match metrics to visualize player momentum, blending storytelling with fan engagement—no crypto jargon, just exclusive digital experiences. Spoiler: Tarek believes only 0.5–1.5% of fans have a direct connection to their favorite teams. The rest? That’s the untapped potential Trace is working to capture. Here’s what we’ve covered: * Playable commerce: Gamified fan credentials like Trace’s “digital passports” boost loyalty, turn rituals into tangible rewards, and provide meaningful data for brands and sponsors. * The love-money balance: Focus on amplifying what fans already love. Tarek explains why commercializing every interaction risks corrupting authentic fan relationships. * Real metrics for sponsorships: With sponsors investing $100B annually in sports, providing measurable ROI through fan-level data is no longer optional. And much more. Ready to move from AI spectator to leader? "The AI Process Playbook for Business" delivers battle-tested frameworks to transform your operations with generative AI. Written for busy executives, this practical guide fast-tracks your journey from basic prompts to high ROI sophisticated AI workflows. Master AI before your competitors do. On fan engagement, Tareq said: “Focus on feeding obsessions, not creating new ones. Fans already love something—your job is to amplify it.” Key Take-Aways * Build Direct Fan Connections: 99% of fans remain anonymous to teams and sponsors. Brands can grow direct engagement to 5–15% by using tools like digital memorabilia. A “fan passport” model recognizes and rewards loyalty through collectible markers of engagement, creating status tiers. * PRO TIP: Offer fans exclusive “fan passports” or collectibles to capture email opt-ins and boost engagement. * Enable Scarcity-Driven Commerce: Limited-edition digital and physical memorabilia can trigger scarcity-driven buying behavior, mirroring hype models in sneaker culture. * PRO TIP: Pair digital assets with exclusive physical merchandise to bridge the digital and physical experience seamlessly. * Lead with Emotional Value: Emotional resonance, not financialization, sustains fandom. Fans cherish moments and recognition more than monetary rewards. * PRO TIP: Design digital assets to evoke nostalgia and shared experience rather than focusing solely on resale value. * Monetize Passion: Fans' emotional investment leads to higher spending on tickets, merchandise, and subscriptions when nurtured properly. * PRO TIP: Develop integrated ecosystems where fans can spend directly within your platform, eliminating third-party intermediaries (e.g., broadcasters or social media platforms). * Gamify the Fan Experience: Fans need consistent incentives to stay engaged. Time-limited rewards, like Trace’s “event tokens,” drive participation and excitement. * PRO TIP: Launch pre-event gamified campaigns to bring fans back to your platform multiple times a week. Tune in to the podcast to learn more about monetization of fandom without losing authenticity. That’s all for now. Thanks, Marc & Team ▶️Top Podcasts: Find our other podcasts here: * Spotify * Apple Podcasts * Youtube ⚡️ Work With Us & Reach 50k+ Corporate Leaders Our industry OGs, vast network, research team & 50k+ B2B audience help you: * Co-publish enterprise-grade reports with us, driving traffic and boosting B2B outbound conversion rates. * Execute a multi-channel growth campaign that delivers better results than anything else in Web3's consumer space. This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.51insights.xyz/subscribe

42 min
11/21/2024

Škoda’s Web3 Playbook

Hi, it’s Marc. ✌️ “Gaming is the new social media. Platforms like Roblox and Fortnite let brands create experiences where people spend not seconds, but minutes—sometimes even hours—engaged with your content.” We sat down with Luca Zicconi, the Web3, Metaverse, XR, and Gaming Lead at Škoda Auto, to discuss their work in the Škodaverse. As a brand with over 130 years of history, Škoda is embracing the future through Skodaverse, an initiative redefining consumer engagement with Web3 technology. They introduced NFTs to celebrate Škoda's 30 years as the official main sponsor of the IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship in 2022. Here’s what we’ve covered: * Early adoption pays off: Škoda entered Web3 before heavyweights like Adidas and Nike, staking its claim as a leader in the space. Now, they have created a community and connected Škodaverse with gaming and metaverse. * Value over extraction: Rather than selling NFTs, they gave them away for free—building goodwill and long-term relationships with fans. * Cross-functional buy-in: Success in Web3 isn’t a solo effort. They built internal alignment through education, task forces, and leadership support. And much more. Web3, Gaming, and Metaverse are changing how brands engage with consumers. Skoda is one of the leading players in the space touching all the verticals with proven traction. They have taken a step further and introduced AI avatars to make their digital experiences more compelling. On Web3’s potential and outlook, Luca said “The hype may have died down, but the technology hasn’t stopped. Big brands like Visa, Lufthansa, and Meta keep building. Web3 is maturing, and it’s here to stay.” Key Take-Aways * Follow the audience: Platforms like Roblox (2.5M+ visitors for Skoda) and Fortnite are more effective than standalone metaverses. Why? The audiences are built in, reducing acquisition costs and increasing visibility. * PRO TIP: Skip the standalone builds. Partner with platforms that already have millions of active users. * Track engagement, not just conversion: In Skoda’s Nemesis platform, users spend an average of 10–15 minutes, far exceeding engagement on Instagram Reels (measured in seconds). Immersive experiences hold attention and deepen connections. * PRO TIP: Invest in content that keeps users engaged longer. Engagement time is the new ROI. * Use blockchain infrastructure: Skoda’s "Skoda Passport", powered by POAP tokens, rewards fans for both online and offline activities—no crypto wallet required. It’s a scalable way to integrate Web3 into existing loyalty programs * Use blockchain tools like POAP to reward engagement without alienating non-Web3 users. We have covered all the details here. * Educate and align: Web3 success starts inside. Skoda ran webinars, events, and newsletters to onboard stakeholders and align cross-functional teams. This internal education was critical to gaining buy-in. * PRO TIP: Prioritize team education to break down silos and drive new initiatives. * Gamify your long-term strategy: Skoda’s Roblox game, teaching road safety, is a hit with Gen Z and Alpha audiences. While these younger users aren’t immediate customers, they’re building lasting connections with the brand. * PRO TIP: Gamified experiences are more than fun—they’re the foundation for future brand loyalty. Connect all the initiatives building a deeper connection with your customers. Skoda’s strategy highlights the importance of meeting audiences where they are, delivering real value, and focusing on the long game. They took customized approaches across platforms tailored to the platform-specific demographics. Tune in to the podcast to learn more about how they are capitalizing on early-move advantage in the space. That’s all for now. Thanks, Marc & Team ▶️Top Podcasts: Find our other podcasts here: * Spotify * Apple Podcasts * Youtube ⚡️ Amplify Your Growth Building a Web3 business OR looking to inno

45 min
11/13/2024

Beyond LLMs: How AI is Set to Reshape Global Business with Stephen Messer

Marc sat down with Stephen Messer, internet entrepreneur, inventor and investor, and founder of Collective[i], to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming corporates. Collective[i] is a AI pioneer, using AI-driven economic models to provide businesses with predictive insights and real-time decision-making tools. Before founding Collective[i] in 2008, Messer built and sold LinkShare, one of the world's largest affiliate marketing companies. His vision was shaped by watching AI evolve from simple expert systems to today's sophisticated neural networks. Key Insights ⛓️‍💥 1. The Three-Layer AI Stack Messer presents a compelling framework for understanding AI development: * Commodity Models: Language, image, and audio models trained on public data * Commodity + Complexity Models: Domain-specific models requiring expert knowledge (e.g., protein folding) * Proprietary Data Models: Models trained on private business data to generate unique insights 👉 This taxonomy helps executives understand where sustainable competitive advantages might actually exist in AI. 2. The LLM Reality Check Messer argues that language models will likely be commoditized, similar to how browsers became utilities. Current LLM capabilities are "tapping out" due to limited novel training data: * The real value comes from combining LLMs with domain-specific models * Pure LLM advice tends to be generic and unactionable 3. Economic Foundation Models as Competitive Advantage Messer emphasizes that the real game-changer lies in economic foundation models that track and analyze real-time business transactions. Collective[i] is pioneering this space, creating an AI that "observes" global commerce and generates actionable business insights. This includes: * Time-series awareness enables understanding of macro event impacts * Cross-company learning while maintaining privacy * Ability to make predictive decisions about inventory and routing * Integration with autonomous agents for real-time optimization Q&A Highlights * Marc: What's the difference between training an LLM with proprietary data versus using an economic foundation model? Stephen Messer: Unlike LLMs that lack context and time sensitivity, Collective[i]’s model can factor in real-world events, like interest rate changes or geopolitical shifts, providing business-specific insights. * Marc: How are traditional providers responding to Gen AI? Stephen Messer: Everything we know is gone... When you get into AI, what you start to realize is every way we think about how the world functions changes. Because it's not about just collecting data anymore and processing it. * Marc: How does Collective[i] differ from traditional solutions like Salesforce? Stephen Messer: In the Salesforce model, every customer's data is used to only analyze themselves... We're moving away from simple machine learning, regression models, etc., to deep learning, and we're learning across the entire network of our clients. * Marc: AI Agents? Stephen Messer: AI agents will optimize supply chains, manage inventory, and respond to market changes dynamically—a vision that is feasible today, but often limited by outdated corporate infrastructures. Curated Timestamps [Early AI Experience] ~5:00 * Began working in expert systems, eventually building and selling LinkShare. * Transitioned to neural networks with connections to Google Brain. 💵 [Data's Value] ~12:00 * Middle Eastern countries are now major investors in AI. * Funding is increasingly directed toward companies like Anthropic, OpenAI, and MidJourney. * Investment sources are shifting from venture capital to sovereign wealth funds. 🔮 [Future Predictions] ~35:00 * AI is expected to become an integral "family member" within the next 5 years. * Anticipated deep integration with healthcare and career management. * Focus on AI's role in preventive problem-solving. 🌐 [Blockchain Integration] ~45:00 * AI will play a key role in accelerating Web3 adoption. * Legacy systems will need upgrades to support new technologies. * Emphasis on ensuring data authenticity and ownership. Looking Ahead: What Business Leaders Need to Know 🔮 The 5-Year View * AI will become an integral part of daily business operations * Companies will need to upgrade their technology infrastructure * Those who don't adapt risk falling behind competitors Key Action Items * Start Training Now * Invest in AI education for your team * Focus on practical applications in your industry * Build understanding at all levels of your organization * Prepare Your Infrastructure * Review current systems for AI compatibility * Consider how blockchain might integrate with your AI strategy * Focus on data quality and security * Watch Your Competition * Monitor how others in your industry use AI * Be prepared to move quickly when opportunities arise * Don't wait for perfect solutions - start experimenting now Our Take 🎯 The most interesting thing about this interview isn't what Messer says about AI - it's what he reveals about how enterprise value will be created and destroyed in the next decade. While everyone's distracted by ChatGPT, the real revolution is happening in the boring back offices of enterprise software. Stephen Messer: "Imagine if you could actually run an economy by having an AI optimized every single day of how business is being done." That's not just a technology prediction - it's a complete reimagining of how business operates. And it's probably going to happen whether we're ready or not. The Kicker 🥁 If Messer’s predictions are accurate, many companies are underestimating: * How quickly enterprise software will be disrupted * How valuable cross-company data assets will become in the future * How completely business operations will be transformed And we're probably overestimating: * The value of standalone LLM companies * The durability of current enterprise software * The importance of proprietary data silos The final thought: The next trillion-dollar company might not be building a better chatbot - it might be creating the economic foundation model that runs the global economy. That’s it for today! Talk soon, – Marc Find our other podcasts here: * Spotify * Apple Podcasts * Youtube PS: Before you go, here’s how our industry OGs, vast network, research team & 50k+ B2B audience help you: * Co-publish enterprise-grade reports with us, driving traffic and boosting B2B outbound conversion rates. * Execute a multi-channel growth campaign that delivers better results than anything else in Web3's consumer space. This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.51insights.xyz/subscribe

44 min
11/07/2024

#5 Power Lunch: How Brands Can Win on Roblox

Today’s episode dives into consumer brands’ next frontier: Gaming. Marc sits down with Olivier Moingeon, the luxury exec turned digital innovator behind Exclusible. He gives us a front-row view of what’s working as brands deepen their engagement in virtual spaces. Why This Matters Right Now Gaming’s exploding as the next major frontier for brand engagement, and Roblox is at the center for Gen Alpha and Gen Z. Here’s how brands can make the leap and actually drive revenue in this space: * Market Pulse: 80M users logging in daily, 60% over age 13, and aiming to hit 300M users by 2025. * Prime Timing: Roblox will be rolling out e-commerce integration by 2025, and early adopters are already cashing in. Key Takeaways & Insights Audience & Engagement Metrics * Roblox boasts 80M daily active users, with 60% over age 13 * Users spend more time on Roblox than any other social media * Example: The Care Bears game hit 3.6M visits in 6 weeks, with play sessions averaging 12-30 minutes (well above Roblox’s 5-minute engagement minimum) Entry Strategy Options & Costs * Three levels of entry:a) UGC items - quick, low costb) Game integrations/pop-ups - mid-tier, 2-4 week setupc) Full game builds - low six figures, 3-4 months with ~8-person team * Pro tip: Budget for 12-24 months of live operations to sustain engagement ROI & Conversion Metrics * Revenue paths include: * Direct in-game purchases (30% Roblox commission) * Marketplace sales (70% Roblox commission) * Shopify integration planned for 2025 * Case studies: Chipotle drove 30K store visits via in-game coupons; Beetlejuice boosted movie ticket sales with in-platform purchasing. Content Strategy Requirements * Games must launch complete—unfinished releases tank algorithmic reach * Update cadence: weekly tweaks + big updates every 6 weeks * Algorithm watches three metrics: * Engagement (visits) * Time spent (min. 5 mins) * Monetization (transactions) 🎯 Actionable Guide for Execs Based on Olivier’s Growth Playbook "Success won’t go to the biggest spenders, but to those who genuinely understand and serve the platform’s community." - Olivier Moingeon 🎯 Immediate Steps: * Define clear goals (brand awareness vs. monetization) * Pick the right entry point for your brand * Set a long-term budget * Craft a strategy that’s native to the Roblox platform Long-Term Strategy: * Establish a content calendar with regular updates * Build community engagement from day one * Track cross-platform impact and refine as needed * Ensure a solid content moderation plan Curated Timestamps 💡 [2:30-6:00] Evolution from NFTs to Gaming * Discussion of NFT market changes * Why brands are moving to gaming platforms * Value proposition for CMOs 🎮 [6:00-11:00] Roblox Platform Specifics * Platform features: UGCs, advertising, e-commerce integration * Comparison with other platforms like Fortnite * Different entry options for brands [11:00-15:00] Game Development & Success Metrics * Discussion of game development challenges * Platform algorithm explanation * Engagement metrics and success factors 🔮 [32:00-36:00] Future Outlook & Brand Strategy * 5-year outlook for brand engagement * Integration of physical and digital products * Cross-platform opportunities * Real-world conversion examples The Takeaway Roblox offers a unique chance for brands to build strong, gaming-native positions. Winning requires patience, resources, and a strategy that fits the platform. That's it for now. Talk soon, – Marc Find our other podcasts here: * Spotify * Apple Podcasts * YouTube PS: Before you go, here’s how 51 Insight’s 8+ years in the space, industry OGs, vast network, research team & 50k+ B2B audience helps you: * Co-publish enterprise-grade reports with us, positioning you as a thought leader and boosting B2B outbound conversion rates. * Execute multi-channel growth campaigns that drives traffic and delivers better results than anything else in Web3's consumer space. This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.51insights.xyz/subscribe

50 min
10/24/2024

#4 Power Lunch: The Immersive Commerce Opportunity for Brands

Hi, it's Marc ✌️ We just wrapped up another Power Lunch with Jean-Charles Capelli (Chairman) and Matthew Warneford (CEO) from Dubit. Why it’s interesting: Dubit, founded in 1999, is pioneer in building virtual words for brands. They’ve recently worked with Starbucks for their Roblox activation. We Talked About: User growth, brand perception, and evolving strategies on Roblox and where brands should focus next. 📊 Data Drop: Top Brands on Roblox We have curated a dataset of 100+ top brands on Roblox and their activation in immersive commerce. Subscribe to PRO to get free access to all the data (at the bottom of the article) 👇 👉 PRO already? Access our data dashboard here. Key Takeaways: * The Roblox Opportunity: Roblox has gone from niche to mainstream, now offering brands a direct way to reach younger consumers. Beyond Kids: With over 100 million users aged 18+, 66 million daily users and 4.7 billion hours spent monthly. Initially seen as low-quality, the platform has evolved with brands like Starbucks, Adidas, and are running campaigns there. * Winning strategies include: * Integrating virtual stores in popular Roblox games. * Offering real-world rewards to bring users into physical stores. * Creating virtual branded items to build customer loyalty. * Using in-game ads for a simple, effective brand entry. * Leverage Data-Driven Insights for ROI: Roblox isn't just about virtual fun—it's driving real-world sales and ROI. * With 22% sales uplift from Lunchables’ Roblox campaign, scanning a QR code on physical products drove in-game rewards and increased real-world purchases. Measuring engagement metrics beyond impressions is critical for optimizing campaigns. * Action: Use QR codes or other mechanics to track in-game behavior and tie it back to real-world sales or brand loyalty for tangible ROI. * Start with Authentic Integration * Brands like Adidas, H&M, and Starbucks are entering platforms like Roblox through immersive, branded experiences instead of traditional ads. Brands should focus on integrating organically with gameplay and user experiences to build brand affinity. * Action: Explore creating branded mini-games or immersive spaces in popular games rather than just placing ads. For example, Starbucks’ virtual store in Roblox boosted real-world foot traffic through loyalty rewards. * Interoperable Loyalty Programs * Building a cross-platform loyalty system, as Dubit does, allows users to carry loyalty points across platforms like YouTube and Roblox. This strengthens brand relationships and incentivizes engagement. * Action: Develop cross-platform loyalty programs that allow users to accumulate and redeem points across digital experiences, increasing touchpoints and engagement opportunities. * Roblox Controversy on Inflated User Numbers * Despite the controversy over inflated daily active accounts, Roblox’s 22% sales uplift from campaigns like Lunchables shows the platform still drives real-world results. Brands should focus on monetizable engagement over raw user numbers. * Action: Leverage in-game rewards tied to real-world purchases (e.g., QR codes) to boost ROI, and track conversion metrics like sales velocity or store visits to measure success. * Competitive Platforms * As Roblox faces controversy, platforms like Fortnite's UEFN and ZEPETO offer alternatives with growing user bases, and Meta’s Horizon Worlds is investing in creating immersive social experiences without requiring VR. Each platform targets different demographics, with Fortnite focusing on older teens and adults, while ZEPETO appeals to younger, social-oriented users. * Action: Expand beyond Roblox by testing brand activations in Fortnite's UEFN for a more mature audience and ZEPETO for Gen Z. Track user engagement, brand affinity, and real-world conversion metrics on each platform to see where your brand resonates most effectively. 🚨Save your spot! How to build successful games in Roblox Join us today at 12:15p

46 min

See All (22)

Creator

Marc Baumann
Years Active

2024 - 2025
Episodes

22
Rating

Clean
Show Website

Web3 for Business – by 51 Insights

Web3 for Business – by 51 Insights

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#5 Power Lunch: How Brands Can Win on Roblox

#4 Power Lunch: The Immersive Commerce Opportunity for Brands

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