Underlying Technology Needed

Smart contract platforms differ from banks/brokerages because the enforcement and record-keeping layer is coded into the protocol; Not run by a company’s private ledger.

Components Required:

• Blockchain Layer (Ethereum, Base, Solana, etc.): Immutable ledger + execution engine.

• Smart Contracts: Encoded rule logic (escrow, splits, vesting, voting).

• Oracles: Data bridges to pull in off-chain truth (e.g., shipping confirmed, stock price crossed $100).

• Stablecoins / Crypto Assets: Capital medium (USDC, ETH).

• Identity Layer: KYC/KYB (cb.id, ENS, DID).

• Custody Layer: Coinbase Prime / Kraken for regulated storage of assets.

✅ With Capital One, these are all siloed internally: a proprietary ledger, a centralized compliance system, and a bank-as-gatekeeper. With Robinhood, trade execution is routed through clearinghouses and broker-dealers. None of the logic is transparent or programmable by the user.