If you're deep in the crypto world, you know that spotting projects before they launch tokens can be a game-changer. That's exactly what @S4mmyEth, a decentralized AI researcher and former Big Four alum, is highlighting in his recent X thread. He dives into why protocols like Legion.cc are gaining traction and how they could lead to big opportunities in the evolving landscape of blockchain investments.

The Buzz Around Legion.cc and Echo's Acquisition

S4mmyEth kicks off by noting the recent acquisition of Echo for around $400 million by Coinbase. This move has put a spotlight on similar platforms, especially Legion.cc. Unlike traditional equity routes, Legion might opt for a token model, making it more accessible to the average investor.

As S4mmyEth puts it: "After Echo was acquired for ~$400m there’s more reason to pay attention to Legion; they may pioneer the token route, rather than equity." He emphasizes that ICO-style launchpads are making a comeback, offering a fairer way to enter private markets. This ties into the broader trend of democratizing investment access, where anyone can sign up and participate without needing VC connections.

In a follow-up reply, he clarifies: "This is not to say Echo won’t go token, but the acquisition by Coinbase suggests to me that this will come under the $BASE token if one were to be launched. Once regulatory clarity arrives for tokens + equity then it’s likely we’ll see a whole new ICO season."

For those new to this, ICOs (Initial Coin Offerings) were huge in 2017, allowing projects to raise funds via tokens. With better regulations on the horizon, we could see a safer revival, and platforms like Legion are at the forefront.

Privy.io: The Onboarding Backbone Acquired by Stripe

Another gem from the thread is Privy.io, which was recently acquired by Stripe. S4mmyEth advises keeping an eye out for points accumulation opportunities here. "Acquired by Stripe; if an opportunity to accumulate points crops up here then pay attention. This is the backbone to onboarding normies," he writes.

Privy.io specializes in seamless user authentication for web3 apps, making it easier for non-crypto natives ("normies") to jump in without the usual hurdles like wallet setups. Its acquisition by Stripe, a payments giant, signals mainstream adoption potential. If points or rewards programs emerge, early participants could benefit from future airdrops or token distributions.

A Curated List of Over 125 Tokenless Protocols

The thread quotes an earlier post where S4mmyEth shares a spreadsheet of more than 125 protocols without tokens yet, complete with farming strategies. He's published the full list to his subscribers and teases it in his free newsletter (check his bio for the link).

Here's a breakdown of some highlights from various categories, with simple explanations for each:

AI Protocols

• @NousResearch: A decentralized AI model. Sign up to their portal to get involved early.
• @Surf_Copilot: A deep research AI tool for crypto. Grab a pro subscription and refer users for potential rewards. Backed by Cyber, but no dedicated token yet.
• @Almanak__: Offers automated yield and DeFi AI strategies. Deposit assets and use Pendle for points; TGE (Token Generation Event) expected end of month.
• @USDai_Official: An AI-backed stablecoin for yield. Mint or stake to farm points.
• @FractionAI_xyz: Partnered with Avalanche; collect "Fractals" by trading on NEAR.
• @cerebro_hq: AI portfolio analytics. Hold NFTs and get a pro sub for "gems."
• @gaib_ai: AI yield protocol; monitor for new deposit caps.
• @recallnet: AI skill market with TGE on October 15th.

Bonus: Keep an eye on @NaorisProtocol for post-quantum security, especially as AI grows.

DeFi Protocols

• @kinetiq_xyz: Liquid restaking on Hyperliquid.
• @prjx_hl: Triple-dip rewards across multiple platforms.
• @vooi_io: A perp DEX backed by Yzi Labs, under the radar compared to bigger names.
• @MMTFinance: Top DEX on Sui with $0.5B TVL; focus on swaps and LP.
• @FalconStable: Basis trade with Pendle LP and staking.
• @liminalmoney: Yield arbitrage via USDC deposits.
• @LABtrade_: Fresh perp DEX with a $5M raise.
• @flyingtulip_: Innovative on-chain DEX founded by Andre Cronje.

Neo Banks

• @useTria: Full-stack neo bank with premium cards for rewards.
• @RevolutApp: TradFi but crypto-friendly; use for on-ramps and rewards.
• @Plasma One: Included despite having a token, for its potential.

He also links to his full neo banks breakdown: S4mmyEth's Neo Banks Analysis.

Infrastructure

• @ethos_network: On-chain credibility; do tasks and vouch ETH for XP.
• @legiondotcc: As mentioned, sign up for launchpad access.
• @privy_io: Points potential post-acquisition.
• @ConsumerFi: Tasks for compute credits and leaderboard ranks.

L1/L2 Chains

• @monad: TGE on October 14th; engage via cards and Discord.
• @megaeth_labs: EVM L2; hold ecosystem NFTs.
• @AbstractChain: Consumer chain; accumulate XP through assets and apps.
• @base: Potential drop in Q1 2026; build organic activity.
• @soneium: Sony's L2; watch for revival.

ZK Tech (Privacy)

Follow @0xMert_ and @naval for updates.

• @EspressoSys: ZK shared sequencing.
• @brevis_zk: ZK co-processing.
• @NexusLabs: Verifiable AI compute.
• @zkPass: Private web data via zkTLS.
• @PsyProtocol: Scalable ZK L1.

NFTs

Follow @waleswoosh.

• @opensea: Trade for XP chests.
• @moonbirds: Revived with BIRB token; hold NFTs.

S4mmyEth invites comments for more suggestions and notes he holds positions in some. He wraps up with "Trillions," hinting at massive potential.

Why This Matters for Meme Token Enthusiasts

At Meme Insider, we focus on meme tokens, but these tokenless protocols often birth viral narratives that spawn memes. Think how early DeFi farms led to meme explosions. Projects like Legion could democratize access, leading to community-driven tokens with meme potential. Plus, farming points now might yield airdrops that fuel the next meme cycle.

If you're farming or hunting airdrops, this list is gold. Sign up for S4mmyEth's newsletter for the full spreadsheet, and always DYOR (Do Your Own Research) before diving in.

What do you think—any hidden gems missing? Drop them in the comments below!