The neglected area of modularity: execution, settlement and aggregation layers

1. The execution layer and settlement layer of the modular stack are beginning to gain attention, while previously innovations were mainly in the data availability (DA) and sorting layers.
2. Competition in the shared sorter space is fierce, with multiple projects vying for market share, and RaaS providers offering more favorable fees for Rollups.
3. The execution layer and settlement layer are tightly integrated, and the settlement layer can add enhancements to the results of the execution layer, providing services such as resolving fraud disputes and verifying proofs.
4. Layer N allows developers to run different VMs on their shared state machines, promoting customization and interoperability of the execution layer.
5. The value and role of the aggregation layer in the cryptocurrency market are being explored, such as Avail's Nexus interoperability layer and Astria's shared sorter design, which are driving the development of the aggregation layer.