DePIN Tokenomics 101 with Tom Trowbridge | Fluence

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Connor speaks with Tom Trowbridge, co-founder of Fluence Labs and host of the DePIN Day & DePINEd Podcast about the evolving world of decentralized compute platforms and the broader DePIN ecosystem. Tom explains how Fluence operates as a “cloudless” service—open, resilient, and more cost-effective than traditional cloud providers—and outlines its innovative tokenomics, including fixed-dollar payments to contributors and a capped token supply to build investor trust. The discussion explores how DePINs offer unique advantages over centralized models like Uber and Airbnb, particularly the ability for early participants to benefit from token appreciation. Tom also touches on governance, buy-and-burn mechanisms, and how the convergence of hardware, open-source technology, and crypto economics is driving the future of decentralized infrastructure.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction

02:54 - The Benefits of Podcasting

05:10 - Overview of Fluence and Its Mission

07:54 - Tokenomics Insights and Security Considerations

10:01 - DePIN as Sharing Economy 2.0

12:32 - Marketing Dynamics in DePIN vs. Traditional Models

14:10 - Payment Structures: Stablecoins vs. Native Tokens

16:55 - Staking Rewards and Their Implications

18:18 - Token Supply: Capped vs. Uncapped

20:49 - Token Value Accrual Methods

25:09 - Best Practices in Revenue Generation and Tokenomics

29:29 - Future Opportunities in the DePIN Sector

31:00 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Disclaimer: The hosts and the firms they represent may hold stakes in the companies mentioned in this podcast. None of this is financial advice.