[TimJRobinson]

Most us just want the ability to invest in startups but can't because they're not rich enough to be deemed an "accredited investor" or are of the wrong nationality.

Being decentralized is useful insofar that nobody can prevent me for entering into mutually beneficial financial relationships.

[caramelcustard]

"...they're not rich enough to be deemed an "accredited investor"..." startup investing is not Kickstarter and both the investors and the recipients tend to like knowing that there is some merit behind the money.

"...are of the wrong nationality." not sure what you're trying to imply there but regardless of whether you're investing through a "decentralized" investment system or "traditionally", you're still going to have to abide by the laws of the jurisdiction the company is in.

"...nobody can prevent me for entering into mutually beneficial financial relationships" and nobody can help you if the "mutually beneficial financial relationship" (which is quite a bold thing to imply) is going to turn out to be one way beneficial ;-)