Investment management firm VanEck has unveiled its new non-fungible token (NFT) marketplace, “SegMint,” with a focus on enhancing the sharing and self-custody dynamics of assets.
The reason behind this launch, as outlined in the company’s press release on February 28, stems from the inherent challenge users face in autonomously managing wallets across various blockchains, posing difficulties in sharing ownership and access rights.
To address this issue, SegMint introduces the “Lock & Key Model,” a security-focused approach that enables users to securely share their assets while retaining control.
With this model, users can use a secure vault — implemented as a smart contract — where they store their digital assets. Then, they can issue keys (ERC-1155 tokens) to others, providing shared ownership without compromising security. These keys may also be traded on SegMint’s exchange.
The Lock & Key Model is designed to facilitate partnerships between businesses with user communities seeking asset-sharing solutions. This could include collaborations among NFT holders engaged in creative projects or companies sharing digital resources.
SegMint’s marketplace also offers SegMint Safes, a custom multi-signature wallet requiring multiple authorized parties for transaction approvals. Additionally, it supports NFT minting capabilities, allowing creators to define terms of use for their collections, including personal or commercial use rights.
Users can also share access to token-gated features. Initially offered for free, these features may transition to premium, paid options in the future, as highlighted by VanEck.
To mark the launch of SegMint, VanEck has announced that users with a verified profile and completed KYC will receive a free “Adventurer” NFT. The NFT can be leveled up through a gamified experience, including quests that, upon completion, enable users to earn Experience Points (XP). As users accumulate points, they unlock rewards, which include access to game experiences.