Airdrop Watchlist: Top Tokenless L2 Networks

Summary: 

• Layer 2 networks, like Base Layer2 and zkSync, enhance blockchain scalability and may introduce tokens.
• Speculation surrounds possible future tokens or airdrops, although official details are often scarce.
• Coinbase’s Base Layer2 Network and zkSync hint at potential token introductions, with the latter maybe preparing an airdrop.
• StarkNet warns users against fake token claims while vaguely announcing a potential native token.
• Despite rumors, Aztec Network makes no official statement regarding a possible token or airdrop, keeping stakeholders watchful.

Layer 2 networks have emerged as ingenious solutions to enhance scalability of the base Layer 1 blockchain like Ethereum. Predominantly tokenless, these networks utilize the native token of the underlying Layer 1 blockchain, presenting a myriad of advantages such as streamlined user experiences and minimized security risks. 

Although most are currently devoid of their own tokens, it is plausible that Layer 2 networks might launch their tokens or conduct airdrops in the future for reasons including incentivizing network participants, offering governance rights, and raising funds.

This article explores some of the top Layer2 blockchains with a potential chance of launching a token, including an airdrop, according to rumors and speculation: 

Base Layer2 Network: The Optimistic Rollup 

Base Network, an Ethereum scaling solution crafted by Coinbase, utilizes Optimistic Rollup technology to effectively bundle and process transactions off-chain before finalization on the main Ethereum blockchain. 

While the Base mainnet has successfully launched various Decentralized Applications (dApps) such as FriendTech and BaseSwap since its inauguration in August, the potential for a Base token remains shrouded in speculative whispers. 

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Rumors Amidst Silence

While no official declaration of a token or airdrop was made upon Coinbase’s announcement of launching a new network, speculations are rife that a Base token might be in the pipeline. Coinbase’s Chief Legal Officer, Paul Grewal, subtly fanned these rumors by suggesting the feasibility of a $BASE token in the future. 

If realized, such a token could potentially be in high demand, and an airdrop, especially for early adopters, might be a strategic move to bootstrap the ecosystem.

zkSync: Unveiling the Power of Zero-Knowledge Proof 

zkSync, with its distinct attribute of utilizing zero-knowledge proofs via zero-knowledge rollup (ZK-rollup) technology, presents a Layer 2 scaling solution for Ethereum. 

Offering the dual benefits of substantially minimizing transaction costs and times, while preserving the security backbone of the Ethereum blockchain, zkSync already boasts a mainnet and a testnet, despite still being under development.

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Speculations and Strategies

A series of funding rounds has seen Matter Labs, the formidable team behind zkSync, amass a staggering $458 million from renowned investors. Further, the funding announcement tweet from zkSync hints at a possible token in the horizon, igniting speculations of a future airdrop. 

If the token is launched, investors believe that an airdrop to early adopters of zkSync network might transpire, propelling rewards for initial network adherents and aiding in the bootstrapping of the ecosystem.

StarkNet: Utilizing Zero-Knowledge Rollup 

StarkNet utilizes Zero-Knowledge Rollup technology, establishing itself as a decentralized, permissionless, and censorship-resistant Layer 2 network, supporting general computation over Ethereum. 

Despite being a relative newcomer, launched in November 2021, StarkNet has already been the building block to key protocols such as the dYdX DEX and the Immutable X NFT marketplace.

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Announcements Amidst Rumors

Although a buzz concerning a potential StarkNet token or airdrop has been circulating, the blockchain platform has consistently cautioned users against engaging with claims of a native token or airdrop. 

StarkNet’s announcement regarding the eventual launch of its native token requires careful vigilance, as it’s imperative for users to resist interaction with purported replicas or unofficial information in the industry.

Aztec Network: Enabling Private Transactions on Ethereum

The Aztec Network, another Layer 2 solution for Ethereum, employs zero-knowledge proofs to facilitate private and scalable transactions. Supported by notable venture capitals such as a16z and Paradigm, Aztec, though still under development, has successfully launched a mainnet and a testnet, navigating through the realm of blockchain with its unique offering.

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Speculative Future

Rumors concerning a potential Aztec Network token or airdrop have been making rounds, although no official announcement has been made thus far. The most recent announcement by the blockchain platform is the introduction of Aztec Sandbox, which is a local developer testnet for smart contract privacy. 

Stakeholders and observers maintain a watchful eye on Aztec Network, hoping that future developments might bring a token release or even an airdrop into reality.

Conclusion

The world of most tokenless Layer 2 networks remains ambiguous with prospects of future tokens and airdrops. From the Base Layer2 Network’s speculated token to zkSync’s subtly hinted possibilities, StarkNet’s careful announcements, and Aztec Network’s speculative future, the domain is teeming with potentials that keep stakeholders, investors, and users on their toes, eagerly awaiting what the future unfolds in the realm of Layer 2 blockchain networks.