{"id":"tor-bair","title":"Tor Bair","content":"**Tor Bair** is a technology and [blockchain](https://iq.wiki/wiki/blockchain) professional working on privacy-focused decentralized systems. He is the CEO and co-founder of Stashh Labs and the former CEO of the [Secret Foundation](https://iq.wiki/wiki/secret-network). [[2]](#cite-id-rUKgyJrqsL) [[5]](#cite-id-Mnm7Xm4qUV)\n\n# Education\n\nBair graduated from Brown University in 2009 with a Bachelor’s in Economics. He then received his MBA from the MIT Sloan School of Management in 2016. [[1]](#cite-id-1FIdFyABFJ)\n\n# Career\n\nBair began his career as an options trader at Optiver from 2009 to 2013, where he worked across derivatives markets including equities, treasuries, currencies, and energy products. He later held analytics roles as an MBA intern at HubSpot and Spotify in 2015, focusing on user engagement, retention strategies, and localization opportunities.\n\nIn 2016, he joined Snap Inc. as a data scientist, contributing to growth and revenue initiatives such as user retention, onboarding, ad performance, and international expansion. From 2017 to 2020, he worked at Enigma MPC as head of growth and marketing, helping develop privacy-focused solutions for decentralized technologies.\n\nBetween 2018 and 2021, he served as an advisor to OpenFinance Network and [Numerai](https://iq.wiki/wiki/numeraire) and advised the [Proof of Stake](https://iq.wiki/wiki/proof-of-stake) Alliance from 2019 to 2021. In 2020, he founded the [Secret Foundation](https://iq.wiki/wiki/secret-network), which he led until 2023, supporting the development and adoption of open-source privacy technologies.\n\nSince 2021, he has been a co-founder at Stashh Labs. In 2024, he launched Honest Pirate Advisory, where he continues to work. [[2]](#cite-id-rUKgyJrqsL) [[3]](#cite-id-1jQrzHRXwG)\n\n## Leaving Secret Network\n\nBair left the [Secret Foundation](https://iq.wiki/wiki/secret-network) in 2023 following controversy over a $2.625 million dividend he withdrew from foundation funds without prior disclosure to the community. The payment, which Bair claimed was compensation for vested tokens, drew criticism from SCRT Labs CEO [Guy Zyskind](https://iq.wiki/wiki/guy-zyskind), who also raised concerns about potential undisclosed financial dealings, including a loan to [Alameda Research](https://iq.wiki/wiki/alameda-research). The situation intensified scrutiny around the foundation’s governance, especially after it was revealed to be a for-profit entity despite previously presenting itself as nonprofit. These events led to growing community pressure for transparency, ultimately leading to Bair’s departure. [[4]](#cite-id-7ZXZ2hgKWz)\n\n# Interviews\n\n## Privacy & Web3\n\nIn this episode of the _Reimagine Ownership_ podcast, Bair discussed the evolving relationship between privacy, identity, and digital ownership in [Web3](https://iq.wiki/wiki/web3). He explained that Stashh was created to address [NFT](https://iq.wiki/wiki/non-fungible-token-nft) discovery and social interaction issues by building a privacy-focused, social-first [NFT](https://iq.wiki/wiki/non-fungible-token-nft) platform. Bair emphasized that privacy in [Web3](https://iq.wiki/wiki/web3) should mirror real-world ownership dynamics—users should control who sees their assets and under what conditions. He distinguished privacy from anonymity, noting that [blockchain](https://iq.wiki/wiki/blockchain) is inherently transparent and traceable, and that meaningful digital reputation requires selective disclosure rather than complete obscurity. The conversation also explored how ownership has historically relied on state-backed structures and how [blockchain](https://iq.wiki/wiki/blockchain) technology may decentralize but still needs similar trust and protection mechanisms. [[9]](#cite-id-xiElJlBkWfs)\n\n$$widget0 [YOUTUBE@VID](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xiElJlBkWfs)$$\n\n## Crypto Culture\n\nIn Episode 9 of _The Collectoors Podcast_, Bair and MC Liquid engaged in a reflective conversation on the cultural and psychological foundations of the [crypto](https://iq.wiki/wiki/cryptocurrency) and [NFT](https://iq.wiki/wiki/non-fungible-token-nft) ecosystems. They emphasized how markets, particularly those involving [meme coins](https://iq.wiki/wiki/memecoins) and [NFTs](https://iq.wiki/wiki/non-fungible-token-nft), function as memetic marketplaces shaped by collective belief and cultural expression. Drawing on historical context, including the rise of [Dogecoin](https://iq.wiki/wiki/dogecoin) and its unexpected mainstream relevance, the hosts discussed how memes serve as vehicles for decentralized value and identity. They critiqued the real-time, often context-less nature of platforms like Twitter. They stressed the importance of understanding the past to navigate the volatility and experimentation of the current [Web3](https://iq.wiki/wiki/web3) landscape. Throughout, they questioned whether the space is genuinely transformative or simply self-referential, highlighting the ongoing need for self-awareness and historical insight in [crypto](https://iq.wiki/wiki/cryptocurrency) culture. [[6]](#cite-id-RQwywqPWd9)\n\n$$widget0 [YOUTUBE@VID](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tn5IlWgRw9c)$$\n\n## Private NFTs\n\nIn this episode of _The Alpha Podcast_, Bair discussed the development and philosophy behind [Secret Network](https://iq.wiki/wiki/secret-network), a permissionless [blockchain](https://iq.wiki/wiki/blockchain) that is private by default. Bair explained how traditional [blockchains](https://iq.wiki/wiki/blockchain) like [Ethereum](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum) or [Solana](https://iq.wiki/wiki/solana) expose all on-chain data publicly. At the same time, [Secret Network](https://iq.wiki/wiki/secret-network) allows for encrypted interactions, giving users and developers granular control over data privacy, including for [NFTs](https://iq.wiki/wiki/non-fungible-token-nft). He traced his journey from MIT, where he studied the intersection of privacy and [blockchain](https://iq.wiki/wiki/blockchain), to founding the project in 2017 under the name Enigma. The conversation explored how private metadata and customizable permissions enhance the [NFT](https://iq.wiki/wiki/non-fungible-token-nft) experience for creators and collectors, drawing parallels to real-world data privacy expectations. Bair emphasized the importance of building privacy-focused infrastructure at the protocol level rather than relying on centralized intermediaries and highlighted the broader implications for user empowerment in [Web3](https://iq.wiki/wiki/web3) and the metaverse. [[10]](#cite-id-IW9vAV0cLg8)\n\n$$widget0 [YOUTUBE@VID](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IW9vAV0cLg8)$$\n\n# Presentations\n\n## Decentralizing Privacy\n\nAt [Cosmoverse](https://iq.wiki/wiki/cosmoverse) 2022, Bair discussed the importance of privacy, framing it as a fundamental human right rather than merely a technological feature within [blockchain](https://iq.wiki/wiki/blockchain) systems. He traced the historical development of the secret project and its commitment to ensuring strong privacy guarantees through decentralization. He highlighted seminal research from 2015 that laid the groundwork for integrating privacy with [blockchain](https://iq.wiki/wiki/blockchain) technology, observing that the need for privacy had become increasingly urgent in light of recent societal and political developments. Bair underscored that full decentralization must incorporate inherent privacy to be effective and sustainable, noting the project's growth since its migration to the [Cosmos](https://iq.wiki/wiki/cosmos) ecosystem in 2020. He addressed the ongoing efforts to promote the adoption of privacy-focused applications across industries, emphasizing that widespread use of privacy solutions would strengthen the argument for privacy as a universal human right. The talk culminated with insights into recent upgrades and future developments to enhance cross-chain privacy functionality and interoperability in the secret ecosystem. [[7]](#cite-id-KrEOEwamVI)\n\n$$widget0 [YOUTUBE@VID](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WMFJeiiLhWI)$$\n\n## Stashh\n\nIn a presentation for Stashh, Bair detailed the platform's capabilities for creating and discovering secret [non-fungible tokens (NFTs)](https://iq.wiki/wiki/non-fungible-token-nft), which prioritize privacy and offer flexible ownership options not available in traditional [NFTs](https://iq.wiki/wiki/non-fungible-token-nft). He explained how Stashh has evolved since its inception, emphasizing the potential of [Secret](https://iq.wiki/wiki/secret-network) [NFTs](https://iq.wiki/wiki/non-fungible-token-nft) to revolutionize various industries by enabling better monetization for creators and enhancing financial privacy for users. The platform had launched several features, including auctions and customizable metadata, since its [mainnet](https://iq.wiki/wiki/mainnet) release in December 2021. Stashh reported significant user engagement, with over 120,000 connected wallets and considerable sales volume, and showcased a variety of tools designed to enhance the [NFT](https://iq.wiki/wiki/non-fungible-token-nft) experience. Lastly, Bair highlighted the ongoing development and expansion of Stashh's offerings, indicating a bright future for the [Secret](https://iq.wiki/wiki/secret-network) [NFT](https://iq.wiki/wiki/non-fungible-token-nft) ecosystem. [[8]](#cite-id-bTpYISeLWt)\n\n$$widget0 [YOUTUBE@VID](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBrmv-4ax4o)$$\n\n# Panels\n\n## Future of NFTs\n\nAt DCentral Miami 2022, Bair participated in a panel discussion on the potential and future of [non-fungible tokens (NFTs)](https://iq.wiki/wiki/non-fungible-token-nft). Alongside Halsey Huth (Moonpay), Joey Richter (Aardvark Technologies), Marko Suvajdzic, and Kelmen Gradisar (Ballies), Bair highlighted the advantages of [blockchain](https://iq.wiki/wiki/blockchain) technology in ensuring true ownership and interoperability of digital assets, emphasizing the significance of privacy in [NFTs](https://iq.wiki/wiki/non-fungible-token-nft). The panelists discussed the importance of sustainability and the need to shift the narrative surrounding [NFTs](https://iq.wiki/wiki/non-fungible-token-nft) from mere collectibles and speculative items to tools that enhance user experience and community engagement. They acknowledged the current misconceptions about [NFTs](https://iq.wiki/wiki/non-fungible-token-nft) and explored ways to communicate their value more effectively to a broader audience. The conversation also touched upon innovative applications of [NFTs](https://iq.wiki/wiki/non-fungible-token-nft), such as creating executable [NFTs](https://iq.wiki/wiki/non-fungible-token-nft) for distributing applications, while emphasizing the importance of establishing regulatory frameworks to ensure accountability and foster long-term growth in the [NFT](https://iq.wiki/wiki/non-fungible-token-nft) space. [[11]](#cite-id-AyVRba7tSG4)\n\n$$widget0 [YOUTUBE@VID](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AyVRba7tSG4)$$","summary":"Tor Bair is a prominent figure in blockchain, known for founding Stashh and the Secret Foundation, focusing on privacy in Web3.","images":[{"id":"QmP5SqQUyrdA6BYVTWza6FwGE9HS4DrqMr8R57dzroMn2P","type":"image/jpeg, image/png"}],"categories":[{"id":"people","title":"people"}],"tags":[{"id":"Founders"},{"id":"Blockchains"},{"id":"Developers"},{"id":"Protocols"},{"id":"Organizations"}],"media":[{"id":"QmP5SqQUyrdA6BYVTWza6FwGE9HS4DrqMr8R57dzroMn2P","type":"GALLERY","source":"IPFS_IMG"},{"id":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PK1nr17fOrs","name":"PK1nr17fOrs","caption":"","thumbnail":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PK1nr17fOrs","source":"YOUTUBE"},{"id":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xiElJlBkWfs","name":"xiElJlBkWfs","caption":"","thumbnail":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xiElJlBkWfs","source":"YOUTUBE"},{"id":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tn5IlWgRw9c","name":"Tn5IlWgRw9c","caption":"","thumbnail":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tn5IlWgRw9c","source":"YOUTUBE"},{"id":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IW9vAV0cLg8","name":"IW9vAV0cLg8","caption":"","thumbnail":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IW9vAV0cLg8","source":"YOUTUBE"},{"id":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WMFJeiiLhWI","name":"WMFJeiiLhWI","caption":"","thumbnail":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WMFJeiiLhWI","source":"YOUTUBE"},{"id":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBrmv-4ax4o","name":"WBrmv-4ax4o","caption":"","thumbnail":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBrmv-4ax4o","source":"YOUTUBE"},{"id":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AyVRba7tSG4","name":"AyVRba7tSG4","caption":"","thumbnail":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AyVRba7tSG4","source":"YOUTUBE"}],"metadata":[{"id":"references","value":"[{\"id\":\"1FIdFyABFJ\",\"url\":\"https://www.linkedin.com/in/torbair/details/education/\",\"description\":\"LinkedIn Education\",\"timestamp\":1744373221719},{\"id\":\"rUKgyJrqsL\",\"url\":\"https://www.torbair.com/\",\"description\":\"Personal Website\",\"timestamp\":1744373221719},{\"id\":\"1jQrzHRXwG\",\"url\":\"https://www.linkedin.com/in/torbair/details/experience/\",\"description\":\"LinkedIn Experience\",\"timestamp\":1744373221719},{\"id\":\"7ZXZ2hgKWz\",\"url\":\"https://www.coindesk.com/tech/2023/01/30/secret-blockchain-suffers-departures-as-foundation-heads-2m-plus-dividend-sparks-outcry\",\"description\":\"CoinDesk Report\",\"timestamp\":1744373221719},{\"id\":\"Mnm7Xm4qUV\",\"url\":\"https://stashh.io/\",\"description\":\"Stashh Website\",\"timestamp\":1744373221719},{\"id\":\"RQwywqPWd9\",\"url\":\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tn5IlWgRw9c\\\\&ab\\\\_channel=TheCollectoors\",\"description\":\"The Collectoors Interview\",\"timestamp\":1744373221719},{\"id\":\"KrEOEwamVI\",\"url\":\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WMFJeiiLhWI\\\\&pp=ygUPdG9yIGJhaXIgY3J5cHRv0gcJCX4JAYcqIYzv\",\"description\":\"YouTube Interview\",\"timestamp\":1744373221719},{\"id\":\"bTpYISeLWt\",\"url\":\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBrmv-4ax4o\\\\&pp=ygUUdG9yIGJhaXIgc3Rhc2hoIGxhYnM%3D\",\"description\":\"Stashh Labs Presentation\",\"timestamp\":1744373221719},{\"id\":\"xiElJlBkWfs\",\"url\":\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xiElJlBkWfs&pp=ygUUdG9yIGJhaXIgc3Rhc2hoIGxhYnM%3D\",\"description\":\"YouTube Video: Tor Bair on Stashh Labs\",\"timestamp\":1744373221719},{\"id\":\"IW9vAV0cLg8\",\"url\":\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IW9vAV0cLg8&pp=ygUPdG9yIGJhaXIgY3J5cHRv\",\"description\":\"YouTube Video: Tor Bair on Crypto\",\"timestamp\":1744373221719},{\"id\":\"AyVRba7tSG4\",\"url\":\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AyVRba7tSG4&pp=ygUPdG9yIGJhaXIgY3J5cHRv\",\"description\":\"YouTube Video: Tor Bair on Crypto\",\"timestamp\":1744373221719}]"},{"id":"linkedin_profile","value":"https://www.linkedin.com/in/torbair/"},{"id":"twitter_profile","value":"https://x.com/torbair"},{"id":"medium_profile","value":"https://medium.com/@TorBair"},{"id":"website","value":"https://www.torbair.com/"},{"id":"previous_cid","value":"\"https://ipfs.everipedia.org/ipfs/Qmf3HDmfhb2b9mmgkHAzDcJJUEokQ9zLNS8LZ8GTUQAVAy\""},{"id":"commit-message","value":"\"Republishing the Tor Bair wiki with updated content and references.\""},{"id":"previous_cid","value":"Qmf3HDmfhb2b9mmgkHAzDcJJUEokQ9zLNS8LZ8GTUQAVAy"}],"events":[],"user":{"id":"0x8af7a19a26d8fbc48defb35aefb15ec8c407f889"},"author":{"id":"0x8af7a19a26d8fbc48defb35aefb15ec8c407f889"},"language":"en","version":1,"linkedWikis":{"blockchains":["secret-network"],"founders":[],"speakers":[]}}