The Benzinga Future of Digital Assets event featured a panel on NFTs and the metaverse, sparking discussions about their long-term potential despite current skepticism. Post panel, Ian Horne, head of content for Money20/20 Amsterdam, shared his perspective on how these technologies may evolve and gain broader acceptance over time.

Moving Beyond Skepticism

Horne acknowledged the criticism NFTs and the metaverse have faced in recent years, often due to unrealistic expectations and failed projects. But, he argued that their core concepts remain relevant for the future of digital interaction.

"These concepts have been derided rightly for failures in recent years," Horne said, "but long term, the idea of a metaverse becoming a thriving idea, and NFTs being important to identity and how we relate to others online, is completely still valid."

The panel conversation, which included Alex Salnikov of Rarible, delved into how practical applications of NFTs and metaverse technology could reshape online experiences. Horne emphasized that discussing these ideas in a grounded way helps audiences better understand their potential.

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Adoption Through Integration

Addressing skepticism, Horne explained that widespread adoption of these technologies would likely happen when seamlessly integrated into daily activities without being labeled as NFTs or metaverse applications.

"I think the real adoption of these things is going to happen when we don't talk about it like it being the metaverse or like it being an NFT," he said. Instead, users will engage with digital tools like tokens or online marketplaces without understanding the underlying technology.

Horne stressed the focus should shift to the value these technologies add rather than their technical definitions. "When we're talking about the value add and not the technology, that's when I think we're nailing it," he added.

The panel discussion at the event reflected a broader sentiment that while challenges remain, the long-term promise of NFTs and the metaverse lies in their ability to integrate seamlessly into the digital world and shape how individuals interact online.

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Photo by Corynn Egreczky.