We live in a 24/7 digital news cycle with vastly different opinions on every conceivable topic. It is not difficult for untested statements to be accepted as truths: “Cryptocurrencies are destroying the planet” or “Blockchain is just like any other database already available”, just some you may have heard. In times like this, it helps to refer to those who have the track record to speak authoritatively on topics related to innovation:
“Bitcoin is a remarkable cryptographic achievement, and the ability to create something that is not duplicable in the digital world has enormous value.” – Eric Schmidt, former CEO and Chair, Google / Alphabet.
“[Blockchain] is the biggest opportunity set we can think of over the next decade or so.” – Bob Greifeld, former Chair, NASDAQ.
Some of the largest organisations in the world continue to either adopt blockchain technology or partner with companies using blockchain technology. Marvel (part of Disney) and VeVe (a global NFT platform with Kiwi founders) announceda partnership to create NFTs using Marvel’s intellectual property. Square (a unicorn FinTech) announced its plans to build DeFi products using Bitcoin. And the US Federal Reserve appears to be progressing its digital US dollar project, much like the European Central Bank and other counterparts around the world. Around 10 million users have already signed up to trial the use of the digital yuan, according to the People’s Bank of China.
Back home, the Reserve Bank of New Zealand will be exploring the use of a digital New Zealand dollar issued by the Reserve Bank. And Parliament’s Finance and Expenditure Select Committee released the terms of reference for its inquiry into the “current and future nature, impact, and risks of cryptocurrencies”. Once they are open, BlockchainNZ plans to participate in the Reserve Bank’s and the Select Committee’s consultation, on behalf of its members. We encourage BlockchainNZ members to contact BlockchainNZ on team@blockchain.org.nz, if you have any views on these enquiries or if you would like to support BlockchainNZ during the consultation processes.
Blink and you will miss a new development or opportunity in the blockchain world. If you’re new to blockchain, come toone of our events, take a class, or reach out to us to see what’s happening. If you haven’t looked at opportunities in our industry, now might be the time. Finally, if you are a blockchain regular looking to be more involved, we are seeking nominations for our BlockchainNZ Executive Council, a great way to propel your knowledge and involvement, apply or nominate by the 3 August.
Nga mihi nui,
Bryan Ventura, on behalf of the team at BlockchainNZ
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