We recently connected with Joachim De Koning, the Founder of hybrix, a Utrecht, Netherlands-based company offering a technically borderless cross-ledger (or cross blockchain) platform where users can swap, store, build, explore, and conduct asset transfers across different distributed ledger tech (DLT) networks.
Joachim explained how his multi-ledger project enables seamless value transfers between different blockchain networks. He also mentioned that the platform allows users to gain full control of their finances without any restrictions. Joachim also commented on why decentralization is important for consumers and businesses. Our discussion is shared below.
Crowdfund Insider: Please tell us about your project hybrix. You’ve mentioned that it offers “freedom of transactions” meaning one digital token may be used on “all chains.”
You’ve also noted that it’s “technically borderless” and not restricted to a single distributed ledger. What are the benefits of such a solution?
Joachim De Koning: Multiledger project hybrix stands for freedom of transaction. We provide a solution to moving value between ledgers. This empowers people to control their (crypto-) finance without restrictions. To achieve this we have built a wallet that holds over 400 different tokens. This allows users to transfer, store and swap their tokens in a non-custodial way.
That means users have full control over their assets. We are “technically borderless” because at the core of the project we have a multi-ledger API and deterministic toolkit for transactions. The API enables users to store, transfer and swap assets without the limits of any specific ledger or blockchain.
It doesn’t matter where you are or on which blockchain you hold your tokens: you can access them using hybrix. It goes beyond our own applications. Anyone can utilize the hybrix API to build applications that make use of the power of multi-ledger technology.
Crowdfund Insider: You claim to offer “decentralization for everyone.” What does this really mean, in general, and as it pertains to your project? What are the benefits of decentralized solutions as compared to centralized platforms?
Joachim De Koning: Decentralization allows people to be in full control of their own assets, without needing to rely on a third-party. No businesses, governments or other central parties can block you from accessing your funds. Instead of having a centrally controlled system, decentralization makes it possible to have a true digital financial democracy. This way everyone can participate without restrictions.
For example, if you are homeless in the Netherlands, then you cannot participate in digital finance without having a bank account. And to have one you must show proof of residence which you can only acquire when you live in a house. And for that you need money and a bank account. We want to change this by decoupling finance from institutions such as banks.
Transacting, and swapping value should be freely accessible. We believe everyone has equal rights to benefit from the opportunities digital finance offers.
Crowdfund Insider: You’ve stated that your focus is based on “blockchain ideals,” and that you do not aim to make a profit with your open-source codebase.
Why not make a profit and what’s your overall strategy and approach for this project?
Joachim De Koning: We want to contribute to the blockchain environment to empower people. That is at the core of what we do. By not focusing on profit with our product, we can focus better on the impact instead.
Like every project, we need revenue and want to scale. The difference is that we are focused on the greater good instead of bigger paychecks. Where we’re going, we do not need Lambos.
Crowdfund Insider: You claim that you’ve received recognition from parties that are committed to a better Internet for years (SIDN & NLnet).
Why is this important or even relevant to what you are trying to achieve?
Joachim De Koning: It shows that parties that have been providing technology for good for decades see the importance of what we stand for. The recognition of these parties has given us financial support as well as a vote of confidence that it is possible to accomplish our vision.
Crowdfund Insider: What are your thoughts on the rise of decentralized finance (DeFi)?
Can it co-exist with centralized finance solutions? Or will DeFi fully replace CeFi in the future?
Joachim De Koning: We think DeFi and CeFi may co-exist in the future. Both have their own strengths and weaknesses. However, a more diversified financial system will hopefully lead to synergy and thus a more open, higher-performing and secure system that includes everyone.
We call this ReFi: redefined finance. Something that is inclusive, trustless, efficient and yet accountable.