Paul Brody’s Vision for Ethereum Privacy Advancements
Paul Brody, who leads the Global Blockchain division at Ernst & Young and serves as the chairman of the Enterprise Ethereum Alliance, recently outlined his optimistic vision for privacy advancements within the Ethereum (ETH) ecosystem, particularly over the coming years. He highlights significant strides made by some of the most innovative EVM networks with a focus on privacy. Notably, the cost of executing shielded transactions has dramatically decreased compared to earlier versions showcased years ago.
Projected Milestones for 2026
Brody projects that 2026 will mark a pivotal moment for Ethereum’s privacy capabilities, especially for enterprises. He elaborates on the significant improvements in transaction efficiency, citing Ernst & Young’s Nightfall system, which has reduced verification costs from $100 in gas fees eight years ago to just $0.05 today. Brody’s insights were shared through a guest thread associated with the Ethereum Foundation.
Emerging Technologies and Platforms
He draws attention to additional platforms like Aztec, COTI Network, and Miden that are also exploring zero-knowledge (ZK) technologies, noting their rapid improvements in the speed of ZK-proof generation and reduced gas costs. Brody anticipates that these technological advancements will lead to widespread adoption among both individual users and institutions utilizing Ethereum’s computing capabilities in the near future.
Future of Zero-Knowledge Mathematics
The landscape of zero-knowledge mathematics has advanced rapidly, inspiring Brody’s confidence that within the next 18 to 24 months, even relatively intricate transactions will become economically viable for both businesses and consumers. He asserts that the resulting privacy improvements will significantly surpass those achieved by traditional permissioned blockchains, which still leave a traceable footprint.
Focus on Competitive Fairness
Interestingly, Brody clarifies that the current trajectory of privacy innovations does not aim for outright anonymity. Instead, the focus lies on leveling the competitive playing field, particularly addressing concerns about unfair practices rather than evading oversight from regulators and researchers. He notes that exciting developments are anticipated within the next year as Nightfall, Aztec, and similar projects are currently being tested in preliminary environments.
Looking Ahead to 2025
The momentum around Ethereum’s privacy features has been an ongoing conversation, with 2025 expected to be a critical year for these advancements. Echoing this priority, Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin published a privacy roadmap in April 2025, outlining both Layer 1 and Layer 2 enhancements aimed at bolstering privacy within Ethereum’s ecosystem.
