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Aditya Rane and Pavel Kireyev * discuss how a group of MBA students built a community of crypto pioneers and a unique approach to fundraising.
People have long sought out rare physical objects, such as paintings, trading cards and memorabilia.
Recent innovations in blockchain technology have made it possible for people to exclusively own and trade unique tokens that represent ownership of digital assets like images and text files, known as non-fungible tokens or NFTs.
While NFTs have been around for a while, they were not well understood until they exploded into the mainstream last year, when a digital artwork was sold at Christie’s auction house for US$69.3 million.
By the end of 2021, US$40.9 billion had been spent on NFTs.
In comparison, the global art market was worth US$50.1 billion.
NFTs now extend far beyond the art world and can give holders ownership of music, real estate and videos or access to events or members-only clubs.
Not limited to ownership and trading, these digital items provide solutions to problems surrounding the traditional exchange of goods and services.
For example, NFT concert tickets stored on a blockchain are easily authenticated and can thus eliminate forgery, scalping and illegal reselling.
Drawing inspiration from this rapidly evolving trend, a group of INSEAD MBA students developed one of the first NFT collections at a business school.
The Savvy Salamander Study Club (SSSC) was launched in 2021 to build and bring together INSEAD’s network of crypto-focused alumni.
This group of MBA students* (including myself, Aditya Rane) transformed the school’s famous green salamander mascot into the face of an innovative NFT campaign where 100 per cent of net sales go towards scholarships and developing the club.
The salamander NFTs further work as a token for membership that grants access to members-only events and networks.
The idea is to build a community of crypto pioneers as well as a unique approach to fundraising.
We outline how we did it and the lessons we learnt along the way.
Choosing the right marketplace
In the e-commerce world, preferred marketplaces exist for certain goods – such as eBay for collectibles or Etsy for handcrafted items.
In a similar sense, choosing the right NFT marketplace depends on the type of NFT, as well as a combination of economics (royalties and commissions) and features that you want to embed in your NFT.
In our case, we launched our NFTs relatively early on, at a time when many of the major marketplaces were still under active development.
We were torn between three popular marketplaces: Rarible, Crypto.com and OpenSea.
Crypto.com made the onboarding of new buyers extremely simple and allowed them to purchase NFTs with credit cards.
While this made it easier for users and involved smaller transaction fees, it meant that the NFTs were not hosted on the popular Ethereum blockchain and were instead restricted to Crypto.com’s own blockchain (easy-to-use “bridges” between the two chains are now available, but were not at the time).
Ethereum compatibility means that NFT buyers have the flexibility to withdraw their NFTs or move them to any other Ethereum compatible NFT marketplace such as OpenSea.
With Rarible, we felt that the marketplace was more focused on art and “1 of 1” NFTs (one-of-a-kind) as opposed to the generative collectible series we had developed.
Given how quickly things change in the metaverse, we opted for the track record and success of OpenSea.
OpenSea supports the Ethereum blockchain and features a no-frills design to allow users to buy and sell assets.
We were attracted by OpenSea’s support levels, security and success in executing past generative collectible projects like BAYC.
However, we had to accept the trade-off – our buyers would incur higher transaction fees given the popularity and traffic of the Ethereum blockchain.
Minting NFTs
Minting NFTs, in the simplest sense, is the publishing of the digital file on the blockchain to make it a purchasable digital asset.
In minting the salamander NFTs, we needed to ensure that we create the digital file in the exact format that is preferred by the host platform.
Adding more data points such as name, description, price and other metadata ensured that our NFTs are indexable and can be easily located and differentiated from other NFTs.
While the process itself is simple, a crypto wallet holding crypto currency is needed to cover the costs.
Building a community of crypto pioneers
We quickly realised that users who weren’t as crypto-savvy were struggling.
After consulting with INSEAD professors and digital experts, we were advised to provide training to new buyers to bring them up to speed.
We created a “how to” manual that broke down every step of the process, from creating a crypto wallet to buying an NFT.
We had to spend more time educating our community than growing it, as for many this was their first foray into the world of crypto.
This resulted in a much richer experience, as we helped users learn how to operate in the world of the metaverse while championing INSEAD NFTs as a force for good.
Going slow to go fast
As management students who live by the “move fast and break things” ideology, we focused on getting stuff done.
In hindsight, we recognised that going slow was sometimes the smarter choice, considering platforms in crypto are still early in nature.
After we had gone ahead with hosting the NFTs, we realised that we needed to add metadata to differentiate our NFTs and for them to stand out from the crowd.
In the Web2 world, this feature would have been easy to implement and almost universally available, but in the Web3 world it wasn’t.
This meant that we were either forced to postpone the launch or expect a big multi-million dollar platform to provide support at short notice.
Eventually, we bought time by pushing the NFT drop (digital release) forward and managed to add the missing attributes with the help of OpenSea.
Keep the peak firmly in sight
At times it felt like we were moving in circles and it was difficult to make time for this ambitious extra-curricular activity.
However, we were driven by a greater purpose – to help future INSEADers access world-class education regardless of their financial situation.
This played an important role in keeping the flame alive.
After a successful launch in June this year, we are now working towards our next NFT drop of Savvy Salamanders in December.
We look forward to expanding and increasing engagement with our alumni and helping position INSEAD as the business school for the world – and possibly even the metaverse.
The Savvy Salamander Study Club was launched by Ferdinand Issels, Michelle Yu, Joning Lee, Jack Ni and Rodrigo Perez Antolin.
*Aditya Rane, is an INSEAD MBA candidate (MBA’22D). Pavel Kireyev, is an Assistant Professor of Marketing at INSEAD.
This article first appeared at knowledge.insead.edu.
october
04octAll Day
The Women in Leadership program aims to support women executives aspiring to take on more senior or complex leadership roles. The program seeks to enhance your ability to exercise leadership
The Women in Leadership program aims to support women executives aspiring to take on more senior or complex leadership roles. The program seeks to enhance your ability to exercise leadership effectively within organisational structures and practices that present specific challenges for women. You will be provided with an opportunity to build networks of support and to develop practical skills to enhance your leadership practice.
10 sessions over 6 months: seven 8-hour sessions, two 1-hour sessions and one 2-hour session.
All Day (Tuesday)
Canberra, ACT
Australian Public Service AcademyThe APS Academy is a networked hub of learning and development excellence for the Australian Public Service.02 6202 3933
04oct10:30 am11:30 am
As the covid pandemic buffeted the Australian economy in 2020, the Reserve Bank slashed the cash rate to its lowest ever levels. Now, amidst a global surge in inflation, the
As the covid pandemic buffeted the Australian economy in 2020, the Reserve Bank slashed the cash rate to its lowest ever levels. Now, amidst a global surge in inflation, the RBA has raised the rate each month for the past five months.
With markets and economic commentators expecting further rate rises, Australians are faced with a contracting housing market, a rapid spike in rental prices and a general cost of living that is increasing far more rapidly than wages.
Join CEDA Senior Economist Andrew Barker and our panel of experts to discuss rates, rents and the rising cost of living on the eve of the RBA’s next board meeting.
(Tuesday) 10:30 am – 11:30 am
ONLINE
ceda
10octAll Day
Procurement and contracting activities are undertaken by a range of APS employees with differing levels of expertise. Procurement essentials and contract management is an essential core skill required by all
Procurement and contracting activities are undertaken by a range of APS employees with differing levels of expertise. Procurement essentials and contract management is an essential core skill required by all APS employees as part of their role at some stage. This program has been designed to assist APS employees to understand the Commonwealth Resource Management Framework and demonstrate accountability and transparency in how taxpayer’s money is spent. As a result of this program, participants will be better able to plan and conduct ‘value for money’ procurements and effectively manage contracts to achieve government outcomes
All Day (Monday)
Canberra, ACT
Australian Public Service AcademyThe APS Academy is a networked hub of learning and development excellence for the Australian Public Service.02 6202 3933
12octAll Day14
Transformed audiences, expectations and ways of working have made the communications function more important, arguably, than at any other point in history and its capacity to make a significant impact
Transformed audiences, expectations and ways of working have made the communications function more important, arguably, than at any other point in history and its capacity to make a significant impact on strategy and business has greatly increased.
Communications functions in today’s organisations face having to engage an audience that is increasingly complex, diverse and tech savvy in an attention economy characterised by digital and crisis fatigue. Hybrid workforces will need to be brought together with a shared sense of culture and teamwork during a time when they are increasingly isolated and disconnected, and expectations regarding social responsibility, transparency and authenticity have never been higher. It will be critical for the communications function to leverage the latest trends, technology and data to adapt to engage audiences, build trust and maximise their impact.
The 8th Corporate Comms Leaders Summit will bring together leaders from across sectors to demonstrate how communications professionals can develop agile and responsive communications strategies to strengthen stakeholder relationships, increase employee wellbeing and protect brand reputations. Delegates will gain tools and strategies to create data-driven strategies, combat disinformation and use an omni-channel approach to increase audience trust and buy-in.
october 12 (Wednesday) – 14 (Friday)
Melbourne, VIC
Akolade
13oct(oct 13)12:00 pm27(oct 27)2:00 pm
We’re living in a Volatile, Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous (VUCA) world at the moment where much of our experience is shaped by external factors. Whilst we have limited influence over
We’re living in a Volatile, Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous (VUCA) world at the moment where much of our experience is shaped by external factors. Whilst we have limited influence over the environment around us, we do have control over how we respond to it. We have a high degree of control over our own mindset.
This three-part mindset program helps individuals identify their purpose and the steps required to build a high wellbeing, high performance mindset.
The Personal Architect outlines three interconnected pathways towards a resilient mindset: reflection, investment and habituation and takes participants on an interactive and personal journey to discover passion, purpose and what it takes to achieve longer term goals.
“Confronting and powerful, these sessions left me thinking long after they finished”
— 2022 Workshop Series participant
Delivered across three, convenient two-hour online workshops, the Personal Architect course utilises storytelling, activities, videos, group discussion, Menti surveying and personal reflection to bring the theory to life.
13 (Thursday) 12:00 pm – 27 (Thursday) 2:00 pm
ONLINE
IPAA Victoria
14oct12:00 pm2:00 pm
No two career stories are the same and this lunch is an opportunity to hear three unique perspectives from some of the most senior women in the NSW sector. Facilitated by
No two career stories are the same and this lunch is an opportunity to hear three unique perspectives from some of the most senior women in the NSW sector.
Facilitated by Salesforce’s Giselle Kapterian, the conversation will range from the opportunities and challenges they faced in their careers to their learnings as individuals.
The panel will also discuss how the sector can support more women in executive-level careers.
You’ll have the opportunity to ask your questions and network with senior women from across NSW over a two-course lunch.
This event is not to be missed for any female leader in today’s public sector.
(Friday) 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Sydney, NSW
IPAA NSW
17oct2:00 pm3:00 pm
Tune in to hear the Member Education team talk through some of the considerations when trying to make sure you and your family are prepared for big life events such
Tune in to hear the Member Education team talk through some of the considerations when trying to make sure you and your family are prepared for big life events such as health events.
By attending this webinar you will learn:
Super seminars are conducted by experienced Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation (CSC) educators. All seminars are free!
(Monday) 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
ONLINE
Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation GPO Box 2252, Canberra ACT 2601
18octAll Day19
After a two-year long COVID hiatus, the 11th Annual Northern Territory Major Projects Conference will return to the Darwin Convention Centre on the 18th and 19th of October 2022. Attracting well over 200 attendees over
After a two-year long COVID hiatus, the 11th Annual Northern Territory Major Projects Conference will return to the Darwin Convention Centre on the 18th and 19th of October 2022. Attracting well over 200 attendees over the past ten years, the conference is one of the largest infrastructure and construction events held in the Territory.
With a massive $3.28 billion capital works program, the 2022 conference will focus on the Territory Government’s strategy for turbo charging major projects, creating new jobs and growing the NT economy.
The Northern Territory Government is working to achieve a $40 billion economy by 2030 with significant capital investment in strategic economic infrastructure including the Commonwealth’s $2.6 billion Energy Security and Regional Development Plan.
The 2-day event will profile major infrastructure projects in the pipeline for the Territory alongside providing a high-level forum for discussion, debate and doing business.
october 18 (Tuesday) – 19 (Wednesday)
Darwin, NT
Expotrade03 9545 0360
18octAll Day19
Earlier this year, we partnered with Diversity Works New Zealand to deliver the virtual Workplace Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Summit. As some of you are aware, the Summit was intended
Earlier this year, we partnered with Diversity Works New Zealand to deliver the virtual Workplace Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Summit. As some of you are aware, the Summit was intended to be an in-person experience but due to COVID restraints, we had to pivot to an online offering.
While the virtual Summit was a resounding success, we know virtual conferences can never replicate face-to-face interactions and in-person networking. We promised we would hold an in-person gathering in October, complimentary for the DE&I community in attendance at the virtual Summit, as a follow-up conversation to the many interesting discussions that were heard then.
Mark the dates in your calendar, and join us this October to connect, network and learn from your peers on critical DE&I issues, including:
Whether you are a large corporation or a SME, it’s time to adapt for human difference by reshaping and redesigning workplaces for inclusion. Let’s continue championing workplace equity for a more inclusive Aotearoa.
october 18 (Tuesday) – 19 (Wednesday)
Auckland, NZ
Aventedge
18octAll Day19
Across Government, the Customer Service industry is shifting, with the industry focusing on ways to simplify the way citizens interact with government departments through self service, website optimisation and more. Despite
Across Government, the Customer Service industry is shifting, with the industry focusing on ways to simplify the way citizens interact with government departments through self service, website optimisation and more.
Despite some great achievements in government today to improve the overall citizen journey, we still see increasingly high call volumes. This is in part due to the complexity of government departments, their responsibilities and the struggles in communicating which departments own which specific service to the public.
Between 18 – 19 October 2022, government leaders across state, federal and local will have the opportunity to build and develop a 6-12 month contact centre and digital experience strategy in just 2 days!
The 20th Annual GovCC Summit will spotlight the leading government departments and strategies to ensure that as a united government body, each contact centre division is able to streamline and simplify the customer contact journey.
october 18 (Tuesday) – 19 (Wednesday)
Sydney, NSW
IQPC+612 9229 1000 IQPC PTY Ltd, Level 6, 25 Bligh Street, Sydney NSW 2000
18oct(oct 18)10:00 am15nov(nov 15)12:00 pm
People Leaders’ are called on to ‘put ideas into action’, leading their team to deliver public value. Now more than ever, their leadership and their team’s safety and wellbeing are
People Leaders’ are called on to ‘put ideas into action’, leading their team to deliver public value. Now more than ever, their leadership and their team’s safety and wellbeing are fundamental to how public purpose organisations respond to, and thrive, in a changing world.
IPAA Victoria is pleased to present the four-part People Leaders Online Course, delivered by leadership specialists, The Wellbeing Outfit.
In this course, people leaders will explore the practical and psychological skills to better understand themselves and lead others in times of uncertainty and change.
Today’s workplace is a ‘wicked’ learning environment, where traditional hierarchical approaches to leadership are not as effective as they once were. To be at their best, people need to feel that their work matters, be offered opportunities for growth and provided a sense of autonomy over what they are doing.
They, therefore, need leaders who can shape cultures where people feel both safe enough to contribute their ideas and insights, but also challenged enough that they learn and grow to meet the evolving demands of the work environment.
This course, which is specifically targeted at emerging and mid-level leaders, upskills participants to be ‘fit for the times’ people leaders. It focuses on how leaders can set the context for their people to thrive in wicked environments, and provides insights around how they can influence the thoughts, feelings and behaviours of team members to do their best work.
Delivered across four, convenient two-hour online workshops
October 18 (Tuesday) 10:00 am – November 15 (Tuesday) 12:00 pm
ONLINE
IPAA Victoria
19oct9:30 am1:00 pm
Explore how to have courageous conversations that are effective and produce results. Learn a proven model that will enable you to deliver bad news, discuss poor performance, influence others and
Explore how to have courageous conversations that are effective and produce results. Learn a proven model that will enable you to deliver bad news, discuss poor performance, influence others and provide feedback.
As a leader of any team part of your role is to generally set the tone, pace, expectations of your team, and sometimes it includes the need for difficult conversations. These conversations may be uncomfortable, particularly when it involves team members falling short of and/or not meeting set expectations, or the need to broach new and unfamiliar territory as is the case in more recent times. However, to create, and deliver service levels that create external satisfied, and happy customers we need to have internal satisfied, functional, happy staff, so rather than avoiding these conversations come join this program for takeaways that will empower you to approach these conversations with proven techniques and with confidence.
(Wednesday) 9:30 am – 1:00 pm
ONLINE
SOCAPThe Society of Consumer Affairs Professionals
19oct10:00 am11:00 am
This one-hour webinar will prepare you for what to expect in the lead up to the NSW State general election in March 2023, including the ‘caretaker conventions’ and other established
This one-hour webinar will prepare you for what to expect in the lead up to the NSW State general election in March 2023, including the ‘caretaker conventions’ and other established practices that apply in the lead up to an election.
The webinar will cover:
Whether you are new to the sector or have gone through several elections in your tenure, this session will have you in good stead for preparing for the election and ensuring that the ordinary business of government may continue throughout the election period.
If you are aiming for a long-term career in the public service, this session is for you.
(Wednesday) 10:00 am – 11:00 am
ONLINE
IPAA NSW
25octAll Day26
With 150+ Speakers and 15 central themes, Tech in Gov is the most comprehensive cross-sector event for government, IT, and executive level professionals in Australia. Each year, they descend on
With 150+ Speakers and 15 central themes, Tech in Gov is the most comprehensive cross-sector event for government, IT, and executive level professionals in Australia. Each year, they descend on Canberra to meet to see the latest tech and do business.
Over two days, Tech in Gov unites buyers such as ICT Managers, Chief Information, Data, Technology and Security Officers from Federal, State and Local Government, government business enterprises and national critical infrastructure and connects them with leading industry solution providers who showcase the most essential technologies, products, and service for digital innovation.
This is Australia’s platform for senior public and private sector IT experts to learn, network and source ICT solutions for the ongoing digital transformation within Australian business and government.
october 25 (Tuesday) – 26 (Wednesday)
Canberra, ACT
Terrapinn
26oct10:00 am12:30 pm
SOCAP is offering you the opportunity to join this informative, and eye-opening seminar with one of our hand-picked experts in this field, Chris Wheeler, PSM. Forty years of research into Justice
SOCAP is offering you the opportunity to join this informative, and eye-opening seminar with one of our hand-picked experts in this field, Chris Wheeler, PSM.
Forty years of research into Justice Theory (or Organisational Justice Theory) strongly supports the concept that consumers are much more likely to be able to accept, or live with an unfavourable outcome if they perceive:
Empower your team with key takeaways:
(Wednesday) 10:00 am – 12:30 pm
ONLINE
SOCAPThe Society of Consumer Affairs Professionals
27oct11:00 am12:30 pm
Tune in to hear the Member Education team discuss some of the unique challenges women face when it comes to their super, that have led to women on average retiring
Tune in to hear the Member Education team discuss some of the unique challenges women face when it comes to their super, that have led to women on average retiring on roughly half of what men do in Australia at the present time, as well as what you can do to put yourself in the best position going forward. Join the conversation and take the opportunity to ask any questions of the team.
By attending this webinar you will learn:
Super seminars are conducted by experienced Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation (CSC) educators. All seminars are free!
(Thursday) 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
ONLINE
Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation GPO Box 2252, Canberra ACT 2601
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