Why 70% of Token Launches Fail and How Forgd Is Changing That

Welcome back to Talking Tokens.

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The latest Talking Tokens podcast 🎙️

For this week’s Tuesday episode, I interviewed Shane Molidor, founder and CEO of Forgd, an investment banking and advisory platform that helps blockchain projects design sustainable token economies and improve market transparency.

The discussion covers why crypto still struggles with low liquidity and poor disclosure standards, how market makers shape price discovery, and what it really takes to build a fair and efficient token launches. Shane explains why many founders misunderstand market-making agreements, what “predatory engagements” look like, and how Forgd is working to introduce transparency and data-driven decision-making across the industry.

They also explore how Forgd’s platform tracks market maker performance, why most projects over-index on hype instead of fundamentals, and what’s needed for crypto to mature from its “teenage years” into a regulated, professional market.

This episode is sponsored by Forgd. Thousands of Web3 projects leverage Forgd’s free tools to design smarter tokenomics, engage market makers on fair terms, plan listings strategically, and monitor liquidity after launch. Start using the Forgd platform for free, or sign up for white-glove advisory services, at Forgd.com.

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Money and people moves

1. Ripple announces $500 million raise at $40 billion valuation in a round led by Fortress Investment Group and Citadel Securities

2. Crypto venture firm CMT Digital raises $136 million for fourth fund (Fortune)

3. Paradigm leads $6 million seed round for Harmonic, aiming to help Solana reach Nasdaq speed (The Block)

Talking points for the road

Crypto-focused headlines or research that caught my eye…and should catch yours, too.

1. Crypto Lending Climbed to a Record Just as Token Prices Hit Highs (Bloomberg)

2. Canada Begins March Toward Stablecoin Regulations (CoinDesk)

3. YouTube Says New Policy Doesn't Ban All Crypto Content, Despite Uproar From Creators (Decrypt)

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Please note that this content is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Any views shared should not be considered financial advice, nor should it be used to make investment decisions. Cryptocurrencies are high risk and you should consult a financial professional before making any financial decisions. Make sure you do your own research. We may have a direct or indirect financial interest in content mentioned in this newsletter.