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Lesson 62 of 90

Is one model inherently better?

No. Both models can succeed or fail depending on structure, counterparty quality, and oversight. Problems typically arise not from the model itself, but from misaligned incentives and poor monitoring. A well-structured loan + call option engagement with realistic strikes and strong KPIs can perform excellently. Likewise, a poorly monitored retainer engagement with weak profit-sharing terms can underperform. The model is a framework; execution determines outcomes. That said, if a project has sufficient stablecoin reserves, retainer + working capital engagements are generally preferable because they offer stronger incentive alignment and lower token price risk. The fundamental tradeoff is clear: Retainer + working capital is risky for your stablecoin treasury, while loan + call option is risky for your token price. The practical constraint is that most projects do not have unlimited stablecoins, which is why loan + call option structures remain prevalent.

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