Blockchain, chatbots, and AI could reinvent corporate finance
Over the next several years, CFOs and their finance organizations will be able to tap three key technologies to make their business processes better, faster and less expensive. Traditionally siloed and manual corporate finance operations are beginning to test – and in some cases adopt – three still evolving technologies that can offer a single view of corporate data in near real time while also automating arduous business processes. Blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI) and chatbot technology may not be fully baked yet, but they are already available for proof-of-concept testing and limited production rollouts in enterprise finance departments, according to a new report from Deloitte LLP. The sooner enterprises begin […]
Breaking down blockchain’s potential for cross-border payments
By Simon Banks, Hyperwallet’s Managing Director and SVP of Asia-Pacific Blockchain has been labelled a disruptive force that could transform entire industries and even have potential to shake the foundations of economic and social systems. With the advent of cryptocurrencies, the banking and financial services sectors were among the first to feel its effects. In the payments space, it is important to separate the underlying distributed ledger technology from the cryptocurrency hype, and to understand the problems blockchain can solve, as well as the ways in which it can transform payments without disregarding barriers to implementation. Cross-border payments, a space that currently begets frustration but is increasingly dominated by innovative […]
How Aussie women are breaking ground in the blockchain sector
For a long time the tech sector has been dominated by white men. Manels (male only panels) were commonplace at conferences, more male-led startups received venture capital funding and there were a lot more visible male success stories. But when it comes to blockchain, an emerging group of female entrepreneurs are leading the way, not just in Australia, but globally. While cryptocurrency may still have a skew towards males, if you think about a successful Australian blockchain startup, the chances are it has a female co-founder. Last month Queenslander Leanne Kemp’s blockchain startup Everledger, was named by the World Economic Forum as one of the 61 most promising technology pioneers […]
What is the Blockchain? The Plain English version
By Bill Hess, Founder of Pixel Privacy. The word blockchain is on everyone’s lips right now. Although you might not really understand what “blockchain” means, chances are you’ve heard people talk about it (a lot). Some people believe it will change our world for the better, and it will replace the banks that we currently know – or similar extravagant things. Although the blockchain came to the general public’s attention when the crypto market absolutely exploded, the majority of the people still don’t understand how it works, what it’s used for or what all the fuss is about. In this guide, I’ll answer all of your questions in regards […]
Despite sensationalism and fear, blockchain is the real deal for businesses
It would seem that blockchain is gaining a bad reputation from many, thanks to the hyperbole being perpetuated in certain quarters. But while sensationalist and negative headlines confuse, a handful of banks are destined to have the last laugh as they move forward with adoption of the technology. The most common mistake being made, is that the terms “bitcoin”, “cryptocurrency” and “blockchain” are being used interchangeably. Cryptocurrency simply runs on blockchain – or distributed ledger technology – and that’s where the connection ends. One recent article was titled “Banks claim they’re building blockchains. They’re not” – the article was actually focused on bitcoin and cryptocurrency, meaning a more accurate title […]
Mastercard tries to make paying with virtual coins easier
Mastercard has landed a US patent for a payment system that would make it easier for people to quickly and securely settle transactions with cryptocurrencies. First reported by Coindesk, Mastercard said its proposed method would mean the payee assumed less risk in a cryptocurrency transaction, which could result in a higher acceptance of virtual coins by merchants. “It often takes a significant amount of time, around ten minutes, for a blockchain-based transaction to be processed, due to the computer processing time and resources required to verify and update the blockchain,” Mastercard said. “Conversely, traditional fiat payment transactions that are processed using payment networks often have processing times that are measured […]
CFA exam to include blockchain and cryptocurrency parts from 2019
With cryptocurrencies here to stay, education needs to start meeting student and employer demand. Blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies will be making an appearance in the level I and II Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) exams from 2019 onwards as part of a broader new reading called Fintech in Investment Management. The material will be released in August this year, giving exam-goers time to start logging their recommended 300 hours of study time on the topic. Like crypto uptake elsewhere, it’s being largely driven by popular demand from participants, with surveys and focus groups showing strong interest from future analysts and employers. The organisers might be equally onboard. “We saw the field […]
Australia’s first Future Hub to Accelerate Blockchain Development and Implementation
Australian technology innovator Lakeba Group today launched the Lakeba Future Hub, a consortium of leading technology, law, taxation and educational firms, with a focus on accelerating blockchain adoption and development by Australian businesses. Recognised for being one of the first technology companies in Australia to have live commercial blockchain pilots across multiple sectors, Lakeba will work with leading partners Microsoft, IBM, Macquarie University, cryptocurrency and blockchain legal expert Piper Alderman, and taxation expert Grant Thornton, to help businesses navigate the pathway for implementing blockchain and cryptocurrency solutions. New partners relevant to the vision of the Future Hub will continue to be added as the consortium grows in scope and footprint. […]
