I've been watching @zerobase these days, and the more I look, the more I feel this project is quite contradictory.
Let's talk about the technology first. Their trust-minimized execution network combines TEE and ZKP, aiming to run computations in a hardware-isolated environment and then use zero-knowledge proofs to throw the results onto the chain for verification. To be honest, this setup isn't meant for ordinary people; it's aimed at the privacy needs of institutional-level DeFi—large funds want to enter the market without letting others see their operational strategies while still allowing for on-chain audits, which indeed requires this layer. Data indicates that real-time proof generation and the cost per instance are pushed below 1 cent; if it can really be implemented, scenarios like zkLogin and zkDarkPool could have potential. But the problem is, these are too far from retail investors; anything said now sounds like wishful thinking.
Let's talk about market performance. $ZBT has gone through a rollercoaster after its launch, and the worst was during the hacker incident when the front end was compromised, leading to over 200 people losing more than 240,000 USDT. Every time something happens, it reminds us of one thing: no matter how cool the technology is, if the bottom line of security is breached, it shatters. This principle is understood by everyone in the circle, but it's only when it happens to oneself that it is truly remembered.
But what confuses me is the team's attitude.
Mirror Tang has come out several times to debunk rumors, directly saying there is no such thing from stablecoin pledges to various rumors. Recently, there was talk about them wanting to exchange stablecoins for USDe pledges, and he clarified it on Twitter. Today there are rumors again, and he came out to say it once more. This passive state of business operation makes me take a closer look — projects that really want to make a stir don't have time to debunk rumors every day; they just quietly make a fortune. Willing to come out repeatedly to clarify at least shows that they care about how others perceive them.
So my feeling is: the technology is niche, the direction is straight, and it's taking a slow path. Whether it can run through and see the ecosystem, at least for now, it's not playing dead.
Let's just wait and see. #Zerobase