Ethereum’s Path to Enhanced Privacy and Scalability: Key Developments in 2025
In a significant move for the cryptocurrency sector, Nvidia has announced plans to manufacture AI supercomputers in the U.S., potentially unlocking new opportunities for crypto miners. Meanwhile, Ethereum developers are advocating for encrypted mempool and default privacy features, aiming to enhance user security and scalability. Adding to the momentum, MIT-incubated Optimum has secured $11M in seed funding to develop Web3’s missing memory layer, and Noble introduces ’AppLayer’ for stablecoin tool development on Celestia. These advancements underscore the evolving landscape of blockchain technology and its growing integration with AI and privacy-focused solutions.
Nvidia To Manufacture AI Supercomputers in U.S., New Opportunities for Crypto Miners
Nvidia has announced plans to manufacture AI supercomputers in the U.S., which could open up new avenues for crypto miners. In other news, Ethereum developers are pushing for encrypted mempool and default privacy features, while MIT-incubated Optimum has raised $11M in a seed round to build Web3’s missing memory layer. Noble’s new ’AppLayer’ allows developers to build stablecoin tools on Celestia. Sign up for The Protocol newsletter to get the latest updates on crypto tech development.
EigenLayer Adds Key ‘Slashing’ Feature
Almost one year after EigenLayer launched its “restaking” network, the Ethereum protocol is finally adding a CORE feature: “slashing”. EigenLayer’s system for keeping “restakers” honest by revoking collateral if they act maliciously aims to fulfill the year-old protocol’s original pitch. EigenLayer gained popularity when it introduced investors to the concept of restaking, an evolution of “proof-of-stake” on Ethereum.
Ethena and Securitize Aim to Launch Real-World Asset Blockchain on Arbitrum and Celestia in Q2
Ethena, a decentralized finance (DeFi) protocol, and Securitize, a tokenization firm, announced plans to use Arbitrum’s technology and Celestia’s data availability network for their Ethereum-compatible blockchain focused on real-world assets. The Converge chain aims for fast block times and will allow users to pay gas fees through Ethena’s USDe and USDtb. Security and guardrails will be provided via the Converge Validator Network. The mainnet launch is targeted for the second quarter of this year, with a testnet expected in the next few weeks.
ETH’s Performance and Relevance Questioned
ETH, crypto’s second largest asset, has struggled this year with a 53% decline in performance. Its market cap has dwindled relative to XRP, and both may be capped in the upcoming CoinDesk 20 reconstitution. Despite this, ETH continues to dominate its on-chain categories and is arguably the second best brand name in crypto.
