Cartesi (CTSI)

Decentralized Applications (dApps)

Cartesi allows developers to build dApps using mainstream software stacks like Linux, enabling complex computations off-chain while keeping the blockchain as a secure verifier. This helps dApps run faster and cheaper by handling most computations locally and only using the blockchain for dispute resolution.

Gaming

Cartesi supports sophisticated web3 games by offloading heavy game logic and calculations off-chain using app-specific rollups. This allows games to be more complex, scalable, and cost-effective, while still using blockchain for asset settlement and dispute resolution.

Decentralized Finance (DeFi)

Cartesi enables complex financial tools and smart contracts to run on-chain with familiar programming environments, overcoming limitations in expressivity and computational resources typical in DeFi applications.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Cartesi’s Linux-based virtual machine supports AI libraries and models, allowing developers to embed AI into decentralized applications. This bridges AI and Web3, enabling advanced AI computations with blockchain verifiability.

Scalability and Cost Efficiency

By splitting computations between off-chain local consensus and on-chain verification, Cartesi reduces transaction fees and increases speed for dApps, making blockchain applications more scalable and user-friendly.

Staking and Node Operation

Cartesi’s token (CTSI) is used to incentivize node operators who run the network honestly and efficiently, supporting the decentralized infrastructure that powers Cartesi’s off-chain computations.

Real-World Use Cases

Cartesi has been used to create decentralized games like Texas HODL’em poker and Creepts tower defense, and it has partnerships enabling token holders to use CTSI for booking travel accommodations, showing practical utility beyond development.

Advantages

• Cartesi allows developers to build decentralized applications (dApps) using a full Linux operating system, enabling the use of common programming languages instead of complex blockchain-specific languages like Solidity.
• It moves heavy computations off-chain, reducing blockchain costs and improving scalability and speed for dApps.
• Cartesi uses optimistic rollups and a fraud-proof system to maintain security and decentralization while increasing transaction throughput.
• Developers have more control over their dApp’s stack, including customizable gas metering and data availability solutions.
• The platform supports app-specific rollups, providing scalable and secure chains tailored to each dApp’s needs.
• Cartesi’s token (CTSI) can be staked for rewards and used in governance, linking token demand to ecosystem growth.
• It fosters collaboration and experimentation within its developer community.

Disadvantages

• Cartesi’s price has experienced declines and underperformance compared to the broader crypto market and similar smart contract platforms.
• The project is more B2B-oriented, which may limit exposure and interest from retail investors.
• Using Linux as the base OS means that programming errors could have significant impacts.
• The technology and ecosystem are still developing, so adoption and market performance may take time to improve.

Founders of Cartesi

• Erick de Moura: CEO and co-founder, focused on making decentralized applications (DApps) more accessible to developers by bridging the gap between traditional software and blockchain.
• Augusto Teixeira, PhD: Chief Scientific Officer and co-founder, originally proposed the idea of Cartesi and has a strong background in mathematics and physics.
• Diego Nehab, PhD: Chief Technology Officer and co-founder, an experienced engineer and professor who helped design Cartesi’s architecture.
• Colin Steil: Chief Operating Officer and co-founder, with a background in venture capital and business operations.
• Marco Mirabella: Co-founder involved in the business and operational aspects of Cartesi.

These five individuals founded Cartesi in 2018, combining expertise in technology, science, and business to create a platform that enhances blockchain development.

Institutional Investors

Cartesi has attracted investments from several institutional investors including Blocktech Ventures, Innovion (Serbia), Mindfulness Capital (Hong Kong), Iconium Blockchain Ventures, Lotus Capital (Middle East), Artesian VC, Chinaccelerator, SOSV, FBG Capital, Wings Capital, coinIX, Bigbang Angels, Taiwan Startup Stadium, and SNZ.

Angel Investors

Among individual investors, Serguei Popov is noted as an angel investor supporting Cartesi.

Funding Rounds

Cartesi has raised funds through multiple rounds including an Initial Coin Offering (ICO) and a Series A round, with total funding reported around $750K in early stages.

Community and Foundation Support

The Cartesi Foundation also plays a role in supporting the project through funding, education, grants, and strategic alliances, helping to grow the ecosystem alongside investors.

Halal Status

Cartesi is considered halal to trade. This is because its business model is transparent, focuses on providing a development platform bridging traditional computing with blockchain, and does not involve prohibited activities.

Reasoning

The CTSI token is used for staking, securing the network, and governance without involving interest-based returns (riba). The platform operates on a delegated proof-of-stake model that rewards participation in network security rather than fixed interest. There is clear evidence of real-world adoption, active development, and partnerships, which supports its legitimacy and transparency.