Deep Dive
1. Giga Upgrade (Q1 2026)
Overview:
The Giga Upgrade aims to increase EVM throughput to 200,000 TPS with sub-400ms finality through parallel processing and SeiDB storage optimizations (Sei Labs). This upgrade targets institutional-grade performance for DeFi and high-frequency applications.
What this means:
This is bullish for SEI because it could attract Ethereum developers seeking scalable infrastructure. However, delays or technical hurdles might dampen sentiment if adoption lags post-launch.
2. Ecosystem Growth – Protocol Launches & AI/Gaming
Overview:
- TakaraLend (leading DeFi protocol, $85M TVL) and MonacoOnSei (incubated by Sei Labs) plan token launches in 2026.
- Kindred_AI partners with Sei to deploy AI agents using licensed IPs, targeting a $200B AI-agent economy (Kaff 📊).
- Gaming remains a focus, with titles like Helium Wars and Nitromachines driving ~500K daily active wallets.
What this means:
New token launches could boost liquidity and user engagement. AI integration positions Sei as infrastructure for autonomous transactions, though competition from Layer 2s remains a risk.
3. Developer & Creator Support
Overview:
The Sei Foundation’s 2025 vision prioritizes:
- Builder grants and retroactive funding for ecosystem projects.
- Quadratic funding rounds (e.g., $250K for the Sei Street Team program).
- Hackathons targeting DeFi, gaming, and AI use cases (Sei Foundation).
What this means:
These initiatives are neutral-to-bullish, fostering long-term innovation. Success hinges on attracting high-quality builders amid crowded Layer 1 markets.
Conclusion
Sei’s roadmap balances technical scalability (Giga Upgrade), ecosystem diversification (AI/gaming), and community-driven growth. While the 55.56M SEI token unlock on January 15, 2026, has passed, focus now shifts to execution risks for upgrades and capitalizing on institutional demand via partnerships like OSL HK.
What catalysts could accelerate SEI’s adoption beyond EVM compatibility?