S5 E33 - 14th August 2024 Digital Bytes with Jonny Fry and James Tylee featuring Elliot Hentov, Head of Macro Policy Research at State Street Global Advisors

US politicians woo crypto advocates - in a world where digital currencies are reshaping finance, the intersection of cryptocurrency and politics is a new battleground for American voters. As the 2024 US Presidential election approaches, candidates are asking: Could embracing crypto be the key to winning the White House? This electoral cycle, crypto policy is crucial, making us wonder whether, in a political landscape valuing authenticity and innovation, could betting on the future of finance be the smartest move for leaders? And what does this crypto-political dance reveal about the evolving ties between technology, democracy and the American dream? Full Article Here What is programmable money? A guide to CBDCs and stablecoins - programmable money is revolutionising financial transactions by embedding rules directly within digital currencies, utilising blockchain technology and smart contracts to enhance security, control and efficiency. Central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) can impact financial stability and risk transfer, whilst stablecoins offer stable value but face both regulatory and technical challenges. The need for digital money is underscored by its potential to drive economic growth, financial inclusion and efficiency, especially for SMEs. Real-world applications, including energy and mobile payments, illustrate programmable money’s cost benefits and practical uses. Full Article Here Blockchain goes to the Olympics - blockchain technology is making waves at the Olympics, joining the ranks of the many flags representing nations worldwide. The IOC has embraced blockchain by launching games and digital collectibles such as NFTs that engage fans and create new revenue streams. Notably, “Olympics Go! Paris 2024”, will feature mini-games and a city-building simulator, offering exclusive digital items. Additionally, Olympics-themed meme coins have emerged, further merging sports and blockchain. Will blockchain be the gold standard, then, for future Games? Full Article Here Asset tokenisation: what, why and when? A primer on the technological disruption of capital markets - the shift to digitally native financial instruments promises a major transformation whereby raising questions about its rollout and which assets will be tokenised first. Tokenisation could radically change supply and demand dynamics, benefiting specific markets. It offers practical perks such as faster settlements and lower fees, enhancing market transparency and liquidity. However, widespread adoption will be slow due to regulatory and technological hurdles but by lowering entry barriers for issuers and investors, particularly in inefficient markets, tokenisation could spawn new economic models and products. Furthermore, increased asset fungibility might reshape capital allocation and trading, so impacting financial linkages between private and public markets. Full Article Here