Cosmos and Polkadot for the Enterprise

Research Overview

Author: Anthony D. Williams
Release Date: July 30, 2021

Abstract:

This project explores one of the most critical implementation challenges of blockchain technologies: interoperability. Enterprise uses are reluctant to tokenize their assets or invest seriously in decentralized finance and digital asset management capabilities without assurances that they will be able to move these assets across blockchain platforms. What if chosen platforms fail? What if better platforms emerge? Some of the best minds in the space are addressing these issues head on with a range of innovative solutions. This project features two of them: Cosmos and Polkadot. It looks at their origins and ethos, architecture and core technology components (including the role of their native tokens ATOM and DOT), consensus and governance, and the applications already using them. Finally, the author reviews what enterprise decision-makers need to know as they weigh their options.

Copyright 2021 Blockchain Research Institute – not for distribution

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