Welcome to Blockchain Trends, your compass in the rapidly evolving world of decentralized technology. Beyond the buzz of cryptocurrencies, lies a universe of groundbreaking applications – from revolutionizing finance ( DeFi) to reshaping enterprise operations. But where is all the innovation happening? Dive in to discover the surprising geographic hotspots attracting the most Blockchain startup investment locations, and uncover the hidden opportunities shaping the future of this transformative technology.

The Geographic Hotspots for Blockchain Startup Investment: Where Innovation Thrives

Introduction: Understanding Blockchain Startup Investment Locations

The Growing Landscape of Blockchain Investment

The landscape of blockchain technology has expanded dramatically beyond its cryptocurrency origins, now encompassing decentralized finance (DeFi), supply chain management, digital identity, and much more. This evolution has fueled significant interest from investors seeking opportunities in this burgeoning sector. Consequently, identifying the prime blockchain startup investment locations is crucial for both investors looking for potential returns and entrepreneurs seeking capital and supportive ecosystems. The flow of capital into blockchain ventures is a key indicator of where innovation is not just happening, but also gaining traction and market validation.

Global investment in blockchain technology has seen rapid acceleration, although figures can fluctuate year-to-year influenced by market cycles. For instance, while 2021 and early 2022 saw unprecedented levels of funding, with billions poured into blockchain startups globally, subsequent periods experienced a recalibration. Despite market corrections, the underlying trend of increasing institutional and venture capital interest in the foundational technology remains strong. Understanding the geographic distribution of this investment reveals where talent, capital, and regulatory environments converge to create fertile ground for blockchain innovation.

Why Location Matters for Blockchain Startup Success

Location plays a pivotal role in the success trajectory of a blockchain startup, influencing everything from access to talent and funding to regulatory navigation and market access. Startups situated in established blockchain startup investment locations benefit from proximity to venture capital firms, angel investors, and a network of experienced mentors and advisors who understand the nuances of the blockchain space. This geographical concentration facilitates deal flow and provides crucial early-stage support.

Furthermore, being located in a region with a strong talent pool specializing in cryptography, distributed systems, and smart contract development is invaluable. These geographic centers often host universities with relevant research programs and attract skilled professionals, creating a competitive yet collaborative environment. Regulatory clarity or favorable government stances towards blockchain technology in specific blockchain investment hotspots can also significantly de-risk ventures and provide a clearer path to market, making these locations particularly attractive for both founders and investors alike.

North America: A Powerhouse for Blockchain Funding

Silicon Valley and the Bay Area: A Hub for Blockchain Innovation

Silicon Valley and the broader Bay Area remain arguably the most significant blockchain startup investment locations globally, leveraging their long-standing dominance in the technology and venture capital sectors. This region is home to a high concentration of venture capital firms with dedicated blockchain funds and a deep pool of engineering talent from leading tech companies and universities. The sheer volume of capital available and the established network of investors, advisors, and serial entrepreneurs create an unparalleled environment for launching and scaling ambitious blockchain projects.

Investment activity in the Bay Area blockchain scene consistently represents a significant portion of global funding rounds. While specific figures fluctuate, reports often show this region attracting billions in funding annually, particularly in early-stage and growth-stage rounds. Notable companies with roots or significant operations here span various blockchain verticals, from infrastructure providers to cutting-edge Web3 applications, demonstrating the breadth of innovation fostered in this geographic center. The competitive landscape also pushes startups to innovate rapidly and build robust, scalable solutions.

New York City: Emerging as a Blockchain Finance Center

New York City is rapidly solidifying its position as a major blockchain startup investment location, particularly within the intersection of blockchain and traditional finance (FinTech). As a global financial capital, NYC offers blockchain startups direct access to major financial institutions, exchanges, and a sophisticated investor base familiar with complex financial instruments and markets. This makes it an ideal environment for companies developing solutions for digital assets, tokenization, institutional DeFi, and regulatory technology (RegTech) within the blockchain space.

The volume of blockchain investment deals in NYC has grown substantially, challenging the dominance of the West Coast in certain sectors. Investment rounds in NYC often focus on enterprise blockchain solutions and financial applications, attracting significant capital from both traditional finance players and dedicated blockchain funds. The presence of major banks, asset managers, and regulatory bodies in close proximity facilitates partnerships and provides startups with insights into navigating the complex financial landscape, positioning NYC as a critical hub for the future of finance on the blockchain.

Canada: Government Support and Growing Blockchain Ecosystem

Canada has emerged as a prominent blockchain startup investment location, distinguished by proactive government support, a strong research community, and a burgeoning ecosystem across major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Waterloo. The Canadian government has shown a willingness to explore and even implement blockchain technology in various sectors, alongside providing funding opportunities and supportive regulatory sandboxes for startups. This positive stance helps attract both domestic and international blockchain ventures.

Canadian blockchain startups have seen considerable investment, with significant funding rounds closed by companies focusing on areas like enterprise blockchain, digital identity, and supply chain solutions. The country's universities are also producing highly skilled talent in distributed systems and cryptography, feeding into the growing industry. Cities like Toronto, with its strong FinTech scene, and Vancouver, with its tech-forward culture, are becoming increasingly recognized as important geographic centers for blockchain innovation and capital deployment in North America.

Europe: Diverse Opportunities for Blockchain Ventures

Switzerland: Crypto Valley and Regulatory Clarity

Switzerland, particularly the region known as 'Crypto Valley' centered around Zug, is a leading blockchain startup investment location renowned for its regulatory clarity and supportive environment. Swiss authorities have taken a progressive approach to blockchain and digital assets, establishing clear legal frameworks for tokens, initial coin offerings (ICOs), and blockchain companies. This regulatory certainty significantly reduces risk for investors and provides startups with a predictable operating environment, attracting global talent and capital.

Crypto Valley hosts a high concentration of blockchain companies, foundations, and service providers, ranging from major protocol foundations (like the Ethereum Foundation) to cutting-edge DeFi and enterprise solutions. Investment flows into Swiss blockchain startups are robust, driven by specialized Swiss and international funds attracted by the favorable conditions. The ecosystem benefits from close collaboration between startups, regulators, and established financial institutions, making it a premier destination for blockchain innovation, especially in finance and governance.

London: Fintech Hub with Blockchain Potential

London, a global financial capital and a major FinTech hub, is also a significant blockchain startup investment location. The city's established financial infrastructure, access to a vast talent pool, and proximity to major European markets make it attractive for blockchain companies, particularly those focused on financial services, enterprise solutions, and regulatory technology. While the UK's regulatory approach has evolved, the concentration of capital and expertise provides a strong foundation for growth.

Blockchain companies in London attract substantial investment, often from venture capital firms with a focus on FinTech and deep technology. The city's universities contribute research and talent, and initiatives supporting innovation further bolster the ecosystem. Despite potential regulatory uncertainties compared to some other European hubs, London's status as a financial powerhouse ensures continued interest and investment in blockchain applications that can integrate with or disrupt traditional financial systems.

Berlin: A Thriving Blockchain Community

Berlin has cultivated a reputation as a vibrant and creative blockchain startup investment location, known for its strong developer community, relatively lower cost of living compared to other major European cities, and a culture that embraces experimentation and open-source development. The city's blockchain scene is diverse, with a focus extending beyond finance to areas like decentralized identity, gaming, and creative applications of Web3 technology.

Investment in Berlin's blockchain startups is fueled by a mix of local European VCs and international investors drawn to the city's innovative spirit and technical talent. The ecosystem is characterized by numerous co-working spaces, meetups, and conferences that foster collaboration and knowledge sharing. While perhaps not commanding the same volume of FinTech-focused investment as London or NYC, Berlin's strength lies in its grassroots community and focus on building foundational decentralized technologies and applications.

Other Notable European Blockchain Hubs: Amsterdam, Paris, Barcelona

Beyond the major centers, several other European cities are establishing themselves as notable blockchain startup investment locations. Amsterdam, with its strong tech scene and international outlook, has become a hub for blockchain companies focusing on areas like supply chain, logistics, and payments. The Dutch government has shown support for technological innovation, contributing to a favorable environment.

Paris is also gaining traction as a blockchain investment hotspot, particularly following initiatives aimed at boosting France's technology sector. The city boasts a growing number of blockchain startups and investors, with increasing activity in FinTech and enterprise blockchain solutions. Barcelona, Spain, known for its vibrant tech community and annual events like Mobile World Congress, is also fostering a blockchain ecosystem, attracting startups focused on areas like digital art, gaming, and decentralized communities. Each of these cities offers unique advantages, contributing to Europe's diverse blockchain landscape.

Asia: The Next Frontier for Blockchain Investment

Singapore: A Pro-Business Environment for Blockchain Startups

Singapore has emerged as a leading blockchain startup investment location in Asia, largely due to its highly pro-business environment, clear regulatory stance on digital assets, and strategic location as a financial hub for the region. The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has provided guidance and frameworks for digital payment tokens and security tokens, offering a level of regulatory certainty that is highly attractive to blockchain companies and investors.

The city-state has attracted significant investment into blockchain startups across various sectors, including DeFi, payments, and enterprise solutions. Its status as a global financial center provides access to capital and a sophisticated investor base. Singapore's government has also actively promoted the development of the FinTech and blockchain sectors through grants and initiatives, solidifying its position as a premier geographic center for blockchain innovation and capital deployment in Asia.

Hong Kong: Gateway to the Chinese Blockchain Market

Hong Kong serves as a crucial blockchain startup investment location, particularly as a gateway to the vast Chinese market, despite evolving regulatory dynamics. The city has a well-established financial infrastructure and legal system, making it attractive for blockchain companies focused on finance, trading platforms, and cross-border applications. While mainland China's regulations on cryptocurrencies are strict, Hong Kong has often maintained a more open approach to blockchain technology and digital assets, though this is subject to change.

Investment in Hong Kong's blockchain sector is influenced by its unique relationship with mainland China and its role as an international financial center. It attracts capital interested in regional growth and opportunities related to digital assets and blockchain services catering to both local and international markets. The presence of major exchanges and financial institutions contributes to a dynamic environment for blockchain innovation, albeit one navigating complex geopolitical and regulatory considerations.

South Korea: High Adoption Rates and Blockchain Innovation

South Korea is a significant blockchain startup investment location, distinguished by its high rates of technology adoption, strong retail investor interest in cryptocurrencies, and government support for blockchain technology development in specific sectors. The country has a vibrant blockchain ecosystem with companies working on a wide range of applications, from gaming and entertainment to enterprise solutions and public services.

Investment in South Korean blockchain startups reflects the country's technological prowess and market enthusiasm. While the regulatory environment for cryptocurrencies has faced scrutiny, the government has expressed interest in promoting blockchain technology itself for various industrial applications. This bifurcated approach creates opportunities for startups focused on enterprise use cases and innovative applications that align with national digital transformation goals, positioning South Korea as a key geographic center for blockchain development in Asia.

Emerging Blockchain Hubs in Asia: India, Vietnam, Indonesia

Beyond the established centers, several other Asian countries are emerging as significant blockchain startup investment locations. India, with its massive population and growing tech sector, presents immense potential for blockchain adoption, particularly in areas like payments, supply chain, and digital identity. Despite regulatory uncertainties regarding cryptocurrencies, investment in blockchain technology for enterprise and public sector use cases is growing, driven by a large pool of technical talent.

Vietnam has also seen a surge in blockchain activity, particularly in the areas of gaming (GameFi) and decentralized applications (dApps). A young, tech-savvy population and a growing economy are fueling interest and investment in blockchain ventures. Indonesia, Southeast Asia's largest economy, is another emerging market with significant potential for blockchain applications in FinTech, supply chain, and agriculture, attracting increasing attention from regional and international investors looking for the next wave of growth. These emerging markets represent the next frontier for blockchain investment, albeit with higher potential risks and rewards.

Factors Driving Blockchain Startup Investment in These Locations

Access to Talent and Technical Expertise

A primary factor driving blockchain startup investment locations is the availability of skilled talent. Developing and scaling blockchain solutions requires highly specialized expertise in areas like cryptography, distributed systems, smart contract programming (e.g., Solidity), and network security. Locations with leading universities offering relevant programs and a concentration of experienced developers and researchers become natural hubs for blockchain innovation.

Venture capitalists and investors are acutely aware that the success of a blockchain startup hinges significantly on the quality of its technical team. Therefore, they are more inclined to invest in companies situated in regions where recruiting top-tier blockchain engineers and researchers is feasible. The presence of a vibrant tech community, fostered through meetups, conferences, and co-working spaces, further enhances a location's attractiveness by facilitating knowledge exchange and talent acquisition.

Regulatory Environment and Legal Framework

The regulatory environment is a critical determinant of where blockchain startup investment locations thrive. Clarity and favorability in regulations significantly reduce uncertainty and legal risks for blockchain companies and their investors. Regions that have established clear legal frameworks for digital assets, security tokens, and the operation of decentralized businesses are generally more attractive than those with ambiguous or restrictive rules.

Governments and regulatory bodies that engage with the blockchain industry, provide clear guidance, or establish regulatory sandboxes can accelerate innovation and attract capital. Conversely, unpredictable or overly burdensome regulations can stifle growth and drive investment elsewhere. Investors closely monitor regulatory developments in different jurisdictions when evaluating potential blockchain investment hotspots to assess the long-term viability and compliance burden for portfolio companies.

Funding Opportunities and Investor Networks

Access to capital and a robust network of experienced investors are fundamental drivers for blockchain startup investment locations. Established tech and financial hubs often have a high concentration of venture capital firms, angel investors, and institutional investors specifically interested in or having dedicated funds for blockchain technology. Proximity to these funding sources facilitates easier access to capital through various funding rounds.

Beyond just capital, the presence of investors with experience in the blockchain space provides startups with valuable strategic guidance, industry connections, and credibility. Networking opportunities within these hubs allow founders to connect with potential investors, partners, and mentors. The density of the investor ecosystem in key geographic centers significantly influences the volume and size of investment deals in those regions.

Government Support and Incentives

Government support and incentives can play a crucial role in fostering blockchain startup investment locations. This support can take various forms, including direct funding or grants for research and development, tax incentives for startups and investors, initiatives to promote blockchain adoption across industries, and the creation of specialized innovation zones or regulatory sandboxes.

Proactive government policies signal a commitment to nurturing the blockchain sector, which can attract both domestic and international investment. Governments may also invest in infrastructure or educational programs to build the necessary talent pipeline. Such supportive environments reduce the initial hurdles for startups and can accelerate their growth, making the region more appealing to investors seeking promising ventures.

Analyzing the Returns on Investment in Different Blockchain Hubs

Comparing Valuation Metrics Across Regions

Analyzing the returns on investment in different blockchain startup investment locations requires comparing valuation metrics specific to each region's market dynamics. Valuations for blockchain startups can vary significantly based on factors like the maturity of the local ecosystem, the competitive landscape, the availability of capital, and the specific sector within blockchain (e.g., DeFi, enterprise, gaming).

In highly competitive and capital-rich hubs like Silicon Valley or New York City, early-stage valuations might be higher due to intense investor interest and the perceived premium of being located in these centers. In contrast, emerging hubs might offer lower entry valuations but potentially higher growth leverage as the ecosystem matures. Investors evaluate metrics such as pre-money valuation, post-money valuation, and funding round sizes relative to the stage and traction of the startup, adjusting for regional cost structures and market potential.

Case Studies of Successful Blockchain Startups in Each Location

Examining case studies of successful blockchain startups that emerged from various blockchain startup investment locations provides tangible evidence of potential returns. For instance, companies like Coinbase (US) showcase massive growth and exit potential in established markets. Switzerland's Crypto Valley has seen successful ventures in enterprise blockchain and digital asset management. Singapore has produced successful companies in the FinTech and payments blockchain space.

While specific return multiples are often private, the growth trajectories, subsequent funding rounds, and eventual exits (through IPOs or acquisitions) of companies originating from these hubs demonstrate the potential for significant returns. Analyzing these cases involves looking at the initial investment stage, the amount raised, the company's growth milestones, and the eventual outcome, providing insights into the types of companies and investment strategies that have historically succeeded in different geographic centers.

Identifying Investment Risks and Opportunities

Investing in blockchain startups across different geographic blockchain investment centers involves identifying specific risks and opportunities unique to each location. Risks can include regulatory uncertainty, market volatility, intense competition, and challenges in talent acquisition. Opportunities often stem from a supportive ecosystem, access to specific markets (e.g., financial markets in NYC, Asian markets from Singapore/Hong Kong), government support, and the potential for high growth in a nascent but rapidly evolving technology sector.

Investors conducting due diligence must assess these location-specific factors. For example, investing in an emerging market might offer high growth potential but come with higher regulatory and market risks compared to investing in a well-established hub like Switzerland with clear regulations. Understanding the interplay of talent, regulation, market access, and capital availability in each blockchain startup investment location is crucial for mitigating risks and maximizing potential returns.

Beyond the Hotspots: Emerging Regions for Blockchain Investment

Africa: Untapped Potential for Blockchain Solutions

Africa represents a region with significant untapped potential for blockchain startup investment locations, driven by pressing needs that blockchain technology can address. Challenges such as financial inclusion, secure identity management, transparent supply chains, and efficient remittance services are areas where blockchain solutions offer compelling value propositions. Countries like Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa have emerging tech hubs and increasing interest in leveraging blockchain.

While the volume of investment is currently lower compared to established hubs, the growth potential is substantial. Investors are beginning to explore opportunities in African blockchain startups focused on real-world use cases that can leapfrog traditional infrastructure. The risks include regulatory uncertainty, infrastructure limitations, and access to scaled funding, but the large addressable market and the potential for transformative impact present unique opportunities for early-stage investment.

Latin America: Addressing Regional Challenges with Blockchain

Latin America is another region gaining prominence as an emerging area for blockchain startup investment locations, utilizing the technology to address specific regional challenges. High inflation rates, limited access to traditional banking, and inefficient bureaucracy create fertile ground for blockchain applications in payments, stablecoins, remittances, and secure record-keeping. Countries like Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, and Colombia have active blockchain communities and increasing startup activity.

Investment in Latin American blockchain startups is growing, attracting both regional and international VCs. The focus is often on solutions providing financial access, improving supply chain transparency, and enabling digital asset trading. While regulatory landscapes vary significantly between countries, the widespread need for more efficient and trustworthy systems is driving innovation. Challenges include political instability and varying levels of tech infrastructure, but the potential for significant impact and adoption remains high.

The Importance of Due Diligence in Emerging Markets

Investing in blockchain startup investment locations in emerging markets like Africa and Latin America necessitates rigorous due diligence. The risks associated with regulatory ambiguity, political instability, market size limitations, and infrastructure challenges are often higher than in established hubs. Therefore, investors must conduct thorough research into the local legal framework, political climate, market demand, and the specific challenges faced by startups operating in these environments.

Evaluating the team's ability to navigate the local landscape, understanding the specific problem being solved within the regional context, and assessing the scalability of the solution are crucial. While the potential for outsized returns exists due to lower entry valuations and high growth potential, a deep understanding of the local context and a higher risk tolerance are required. Due diligence in these regions is not just about the technology, but equally about the operational and environmental factors.

The Future of Blockchain Startup Investment Locations

Decentralization and the Rise of Remote Teams

The future of blockchain startup investment locations may be influenced by the very technology they are built upon: decentralization. The rise of remote work and globally distributed teams, particularly accelerated by recent global events, suggests that physical location may become less critical for some aspects of startup formation and operation. Blockchain projects, often inherently decentralized or distributed, are well-suited to this model.

This trend could potentially broaden the pool of viable blockchain startup investment locations beyond traditional hubs, allowing talented teams in regions with lower costs or less developed local ecosystems to attract global capital. However, established hubs will likely retain advantages related to access to concentrated capital, regulatory expertise, and large industry networks, even if teams are partially remote. The balance between physical hubs and distributed teams will shape future investment flows.

The Impact of Global Regulations on Investment Flows

Global regulations will continue to significantly impact where blockchain startup investment locations emerge and thrive. Harmonization or divergence in regulatory approaches across major jurisdictions will influence capital flows. Countries that provide clear, innovation-friendly regulations for digital assets, tokenization, and decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) are likely to attract more investment.

Conversely, overly restrictive or uncertain regulatory environments can deter investors and drive startups to more favorable jurisdictions. International cooperation or lack thereof on issues like anti-money laundering (AML), know-your-customer (KYC), and securities laws related to tokens will shape the global landscape. Investors will increasingly prioritize regulatory predictability when deciding where to deploy capital in the blockchain space.

Identifying the Next Wave of Blockchain Hotspots: Potential Growth Areas

Identifying the next wave of blockchain startup investment locations involves looking at regions with a confluence of factors indicating future growth potential. These include increasing government interest in blockchain, a growing pool of technical talent, improving infrastructure, and specific regional problems that blockchain technology is well-positioned to solve. Areas in Southeast Asia, parts of Eastern Europe, and other emerging markets could see significant growth.

Monitoring trends in developer activity, local venture capital formation, pilot programs involving blockchain by governments or corporations, and educational initiatives can provide clues about potential future hotspots. While established hubs will likely remain dominant for some time, the decentralized nature of blockchain technology suggests that innovation and investment could become more geographically distributed over the long term, creating new opportunities for investors willing to explore beyond the current centers.

Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions about Blockchain Startup Investment Locations

Key Takeaways for Investors

For investors navigating the blockchain landscape, understanding the key blockchain startup investment locations and the factors driving their success is paramount. Established hubs like Silicon Valley, New York, Switzerland, and Singapore offer access to deep pools of capital, talent, and often clearer regulatory environments, making them attractive for both early and later-stage investments. Europe provides diverse opportunities across its major cities, each with unique strengths. Asia is rapidly growing, presenting significant market potential.

Emerging markets in Africa and Latin America offer higher risk but potentially higher reward, driven by the opportunity to address significant local challenges with blockchain technology. Regardless of location, thorough due diligence is essential, focusing not only on the technology and business model but also on the specific regulatory, market, and operational risks inherent in the chosen geographic center.

Navigating the Global Blockchain Ecosystem

Navigating the global blockchain startup investment locations requires a nuanced approach. Investors should consider diversifying their portfolios across different geographic centers to capture innovation happening globally and mitigate location-specific risks. Staying informed about evolving regulatory landscapes in key regions is crucial, as regulations can rapidly impact investment viability.

Building networks within specific geographic blockchain investment centers can provide invaluable insights into local trends, talent pools, and investment opportunities. As the blockchain ecosystem continues to mature and potentially decentralize, the definition of a "hotspot" may evolve, incorporating distributed teams and digital-first operations. Ultimately, successful investment in blockchain startups depends on a blend of understanding technological potential, market dynamics, and the unique characteristics of the geographic locations where these ventures are founded and scaled.

Final Reflection: Navigating the Future of Blockchain Investment

The analysis presented throughout this article underscores the undeniable truth: geographic location significantly impacts the success of blockchain startup investment. From Silicon Valley's established tech infrastructure to Singapore's proactive regulatory environment and Zug's crypto-friendly policies, the data clearly reveals that certain regions are far more conducive to fostering blockchain innovation and attracting capital. This understanding is crucial for investors and entrepreneurs alike seeking to navigate the complex landscape of this rapidly evolving industry.

The concentration of blockchain activity in specific hubs highlights the power of community, access to talent, and supportive ecosystems. This concentration, however, also presents a challenge: how do we ensure that the benefits of blockchain technology are distributed more equitably across the globe? The potential for blockchain to empower individuals and communities is immense, but it requires a conscious effort to cultivate innovation beyond the established hotspots. The future of finance is decentralized, but its present is still very much geographically concentrated. This quote serves as a stark reminder that while the technology itself promises decentralization, the opportunities and resources surrounding it are not yet equally accessible.

As you consider the insights shared in this exploration of blockchain startup investment locations, I urge you to reflect on your own role in shaping the future of this transformative technology. Are you an investor seeking to diversify your portfolio beyond the usual suspects? Are you an entrepreneur considering where to plant your roots?

Or are you simply curious about the potential of blockchain to reshape our world? Regardless of your perspective, I encourage you to actively seek out opportunities to support and nurture blockchain innovation in underserved regions, fostering a more inclusive and globally distributed future for this groundbreaking technology.

Ignite Your Blockchain Journey!

Thank you for exploring the dynamic landscape of blockchain investment hotspots with us! We hope this article has illuminated new opportunities and sparked your curiosity about the future of blockchain innovation. Now, let's turn insights into action:

• Research a blockchain startup in one of the identified hotspots. Understand their specific niche and potential impact. This is your primary action.
• Share this article with your network and start a discussion about emerging blockchain hubs.
• Uncover hidden gems! Explore the Blockchain Trends website for insightful reports on overlooked regions and investment opportunities.

What unexpected blockchain innovation hub are you most excited to watch develop in the next year? Share your thoughts in the comments!