Lens Reaches 50k Daily Active Users Again

**Y Combinator has released a new Request for Onchain Startups**, signaling major institutional backing for blockchain-based ventures. The accelerator is actively seeking founders building in several key areas: - **Stablecoins and tokenized assets** - **Trading platforms and financial applications** - **AI agents integrated with blockchain** - **Other onchain financial infrastructure** This move represents a significant shift as one of Silicon Valley's most prestigious accelerators doubles down on crypto startups. YC's backing could provide legitimacy and resources to help onchain projects scale. The request specifically highlights that "*the future of finance is being built in crypto*" - a strong endorsement from an organization known for launching companies like Airbnb and Stripe. For builders in the space, this creates new funding opportunities through YC's established network and mentorship programs.

A new perspective suggests **low-risk DeFi applications** could be the breakthrough that establishes Ethereum's mainstream adoption. The comparison draws parallels to Google's early days - while the company offered various services, **search became the defining feature** that drove mass adoption and cemented its position. For Ethereum, low-risk DeFi protocols could serve a similar role by: - Providing **stable, predictable returns** without the volatility associated with speculative crypto trading - Offering **accessible financial services** that compete directly with traditional banking - Creating a **compelling use case** for everyday users beyond tech enthusiasts This approach contrasts with current DeFi's focus on high-yield, high-risk strategies that appeal mainly to sophisticated investors. **Low-risk DeFi** could include savings protocols, stable lending markets, and conservative yield farming - services that mirror traditional finance but with blockchain's transparency and accessibility benefits. The thesis suggests that just as Google's simple, reliable search experience brought millions online, **Ethereum's path to mass adoption** may lie in offering boring but dependable financial services rather than flashy innovations. [Read the full analysis](http://eth.limo)

**Kiwi News** has rolled out major updates focused on **Farcaster integration** and user experience improvements. **Key Updates:** - **Farcaster Mini App**: Users can now receive breaking news notifications directly through the mini app - **Personalized Feeds**: Stories fade out after clicking, and the Hot feed reorders to prioritize unseen content - **Enhanced iPhone App**: New TestFlight version includes full WalletConnect support, direct link sharing, and push notifications The updates aim to create a more **tailored news experience** for crypto and web3 builders seeking insights from niche researchers and developers. [Add the Farcaster mini app](https://farcaster.xyz/miniapps/v1j07FipArTN/kiwi-news) to start receiving notifications.

The Ethereum Name Service (ENS) has been a consistent supporter of Kiwi, providing multiple small grants over the past two years. Their latest grant has enabled crucial R&D for implementing Mobile Wallet Protocol in Kiwi's iOS application. Key developments: - Long-term partnership since Kiwi's early adoption of .eth profiles - Recent ENS integration allows users to use ENS names instead of wallet addresses - Enhanced user experience through more intuitive naming system The collaboration showcases ENS's commitment to supporting innovative projects in the web3 ecosystem.

Key developments in the Ethereum ecosystem this week: - @DefiantNews reports that ERC20 tokens' total value has surpassed ETH's market cap - Community debates on Ethereum's future with @mattigags noting entry into 'Disillusionment phase' - Technical discussions around L2 solutions, with @p_e highlighting Bitcoin-based L2 developments - @Tiza4ThePeople analyzes stablecoins' impact on Ethereum's neutrality - @dankrad and @CamiRusso examine fee model challenges Discussion about Ethereum Foundation's role in supporting dapp builders continues at [Kiwi community](https://news.kiwistand.com/stories/Daily-discussion-thread-2025-03-17)