Cardano founder Charles Hoskinson discussed the challenges faced by the blockchain and his new projects in healthcare.
What Went Wrong with Cardano?
Cardano, once a leading blockchain project, has faced difficulties related to its smart contract design choices. While its security was undeniable, its lack of flexibility hindered developer engagement. This led many projects to choose more adaptable platforms like Solana. Hoskinson acknowledged this issue, noting that it cost Cardano its momentum.
"We lost that wave of momentum, and Solana got it," he reflected on this strategic error.
Hoskinson’s Vision for Healthcare
Beyond cryptocurrency, Charles Hoskinson is investing in an innovative healthcare facility in Gillette, Wyoming. With a $200 million investment, he aims to create a patient-first healthcare system that utilizes artificial intelligence and ensures affordability. The use of blockchain technology is also under exploration, particularly for privacy-centric tools such as zero-knowledge proofs.
The proposed clinic aims to establish protocols available for public adaptation, potentially setting a new standard in medical service delivery. Hoskinson’s initiative reflects a strategic diversification, indicating his commitment to impactful ventures beyond digital currencies.
What Does the Future Hold for Bitcoin DeFi?
Regarding decentralized finance (DeFi), Hoskinson questioned Ethereum’s long-term dominance. He suggested that reliance on layer-2 solutions might not sustain its leadership. These solutions could migrate to other chains, risking Ethereum’s user base and assets migrating to competitors.
Conversely, Hoskinson projected a promising outlook for Bitcoin in the DeFi landscape, dubbing it a potential "sleeping giant." He estimated that once Bitcoin’s DeFi ecosystem fully matures, it might surpass Ethereum’s market cap in total value locked.
Cardano continues to see increases in activity, achieving significant metrics in open interest and on-chain volumes as of late 2025. This growth suggests a positive response to its strategic pivot.
Hoskinson's discussion opens new perspectives for Cardano and other assets, emphasizing the need for adaptation and evolution in the rapidly changing blockchain and financial landscape.
