How Companies Can Leverage Web3, Crypto, and AI for Growth?
The Prism Marketplace Beta Launch Panel led by Tor Constantino brought together experts from different areas of blockchain, crypto compliance, and Web3 strategy to discuss how businesses—both traditional and emerging—can integrate blockchain into their operations, navigate regulations, and prepare for the next wave of digital transformation.
While I shared some thoughts during the discussion, this article dives deeper into the key insights that were covered, including some additional reflections on what businesses can learn from these trends.
1. Why Accepting Crypto Payments is the Lowest Hanging Fruit for Businesses
During the panel, I highlighted that one of the easiest ways for a traditional business to start with blockchain is to accept crypto payments. This is a low-risk and high-reward entry point, as it allows businesses to:
- Tap into a global customer base that prefers to pay in crypto.
- Bypass expensive transaction fees associated with credit cards and payment processors.
- Set themselves apart as early adopters in a growing Web3 economy.
I shared my own example: For my Web3 CMO Stories podcast, I’ve had sponsors who wanted to pay in crypto. Instead of dealing with bank transfers, I sent them an invoice through xMoney, and they paid in crypto. Simple.
How Businesses Can Implement This
If you’re running a business and want to accept crypto payments, here are some options:
- Use a payment processor like xMoney, BitPay, or Coinbase Commerce to receive crypto and convert it to fiat instantly.
- Accept stablecoins (USDC, USDT, etc.) to avoid crypto volatility.
- Explore direct wallet payments if you have a Web3-native audience.
→ Key Insight: Crypto payments are not just for Web3 companies. Even traditional businesses can benefit by integrating them into their checkout process or invoicing system.
2. Beyond Payments: The Power of Web3 Loyalty Programs
Adryenn Ashley brought up an interesting point: loyalty programs built on blockchain can help drive mainstream adoption. Unlike traditional point-based rewards systems, blockchain-based loyalty programs:
- Offer true ownership of rewards—users can transfer or sell them.
- Are interoperable, meaning customers could use them across different brands.
- Use NFTs or tokens to create new engagement opportunities.
Why This Matters
Businesses that introduce Web3-based loyalty programs could see increased engagement and retention. Imagine a coffee shop that rewards customers with NFT-based loyalty cards that grant special perks. Instead of points that expire, these NFTs could appreciate in value, making customers more loyal.
→ Key Insight: Brands can gamify engagement by giving customers crypto-based rewards instead of traditional points.
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3. The Best Use Cases for Blockchain in Enterprises
Throughout the discussion, we covered several real-world applications where blockchain is making an impact in enterprises. Here are some of the most promising ones:
Supply Chain & Inventory Management
Joseph Albinana and Chris Groshong pointed out that supply chain tracking is one of the best blockchain use cases. Companies like De Beers are already using blockchain to track diamonds, ensuring they are conflict-free.
Other industries that benefit:
- Food & Agriculture: Tracking farm-to-table origins.
- Luxury Goods: Preventing counterfeits in watches, fashion, and art.
- Pharmaceuticals: Verifying the authenticity of medicines.
→ Key Insight: Blockchain is reshaping industries by making processes more transparent, decentralized, and efficient.
4. The Challenges of Blockchain Adoption (And How to Overcome Them)
While blockchain presents massive opportunities, the panelists also agreed that businesses face significant hurdles when trying to implement it. Here are the biggest ones:
A) The “Blockchain” Branding Problem
Many companies struggle with messaging when adopting Web3 technology. One key challenge I pointed out is how blockchain is perceived:
- Some associate it only with crypto and scams.
- Others see it as too complex to integrate.
Solution: Focus on the Benefits, Not the Tech
Instead of saying “We use blockchain,” businesses should focus on what blockchain enables:
✅ “We provide transparent supply chain tracking.”
✅ “We offer secure, tamper-proof digital IDs.”
✅ “We let customers own and trade their loyalty rewards.”
B) Cost & Complexity
Chris mentioned that hiring blockchain developers can be expensive. Unlike setting up a website, there aren’t many “plug-and-play” blockchain solutions.
Solution: Use No-Code & Existing Tools
Instead of building from scratch, companies can use:
- Polygon ID for identity solutions.
- Alchemy or Moralis for Web3 APIs.
- Ready-made blockchain loyalty platforms instead of custom development.
→ Key Insight: Companies should focus on blockchain’s real-world benefits, rather than overwhelming customers with technical jargon.
5. How Regulations Will Shape the Future of Crypto
One of the biggest topics on the panel was crypto regulation. As Chris and Joseph pointed out, the regulatory landscape is rapidly evolving, especially in the US and Europe.
MICA Regulation in Europe
I shared how Europe’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation is bringing more clarity to crypto businesses. Unlike the US, where regulations are uncertain, MiCA is setting a clear framework.
Key Takeaways for Businesses
- Regulation isn’t necessarily bad. Once the rules are clear, businesses can build with confidence.
- Compliance is essential. If you’re dealing with digital assets, make sure your company is following legal guidelines to avoid penalties.
→ Key Insight: The businesses that adapt early to regulations will have a long-term advantage.
6. The Future: What to Expect in 2025 and Beyond
When asked about the biggest trends for 2025, I emphasized the convergence of blockchain, AI, and immersive experiences.
A) AI + Blockchain: The Perfect Match
- Blockchain ensures data integrity in AI-generated content.
- AI can optimize blockchain transactions and enhance security.
B) The Rise of Immersive Experiences
Adrian mentioned how gamification can drive mainstream adoption. Web3 businesses are integrating augmented reality (AR) and AI-powered virtual worlds to create better experiences.
For example:
- NFT scavenger hunts that engage users.
- AI-driven smart contracts that automate transactions.
C) The Institutional Wave
With banks and governments exploring digital assets, we’ll see:
- More stablecoins issued by corporations like PayPal.
- Decentralized AI projects like BitTensor and Ocean Protocol gaining traction.
Final Thoughts: What Should Businesses Do Now?
Blockchain adoption is growing, but businesses need a clear strategy to integrate it effectively. Here’s a three-step approach:
1️⃣ Start with Payments → Accept crypto via trusted platforms.
2️⃣ Experiment with Web3 Loyalty → Reward customers in innovative ways.
3️⃣ Keep an Eye on Regulations → Stay compliant as the industry matures.
As blockchain and AI converge, businesses that embrace these innovations early will gain a competitive edge.
What’s your take? Are you exploring blockchain for your business? Let me know!
Want More Insights?
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