Digital Bytes by Team Blockchain Radio; Powered By Cyber.FM

Dr Stephen Castell responds to the Law Commission's final report on digital assets, contending that the Commission has erred by proposing a new legal status for digital and crypto assets that is unnecessary and scientifically incorrect. He argues that the Commission's attempt to distinguish between different sets of algorithmic data as a new category of property is a technical fallacy and that existing Common Law can address any legal concerns. Castell warns that the proposed new property status could lead to miscarriages of justice akin to past instances such as PO Horizon, and highlights the Commission's limited understanding of technical nuances in law making. Full Article Here

PayPal’s new stablecoin means it can offer payment services and products - PayPal’s USD (PYUSD) represents a significant shift beyond revenue generation, so positioning the company as a key player in the evolving digital economy. This move aims to go beyond conventional payment processing whereby facilitating transactions in emerging areas such as the metaverse and digital equities. PayPal’s new stablecoin means that it can now offer not simply payment services but tangible products that others such as Elon Musk's 'X' can now use and so further shape the digital economy's future. Full Article Here Asset tokenisation - DeFi's accessibility, transparency and security offers the promise to transform the financial sector and the way in which we trade assets. It could democratise financial services, especially in areas with few or unreliable financial institutions whilst making global transactions faster and more efficient. The worldwide tokenisation industry is predicted to grow to potentially $68trillion by 2030 as institutions complete their proof of works and scale their digitisation programs. Full Article Here Liquidity pools and the DeFi ecosystem - liquidity pools on decentralised exchanges are digital asset collections enabling automated trading on decentralised exchanges. Users trade directly using smart contracts and liquidity pools help make trading smoother, adjusting prices automatically based on the volume of buyers and sellers. Liquidity pools offer other advantages such as improving financial inclusion, can generate a passive income. The future of DeFi and liquidity pools is promising but security, scalability and regulation do need to be addressed. Full Article Here Has the Law Commission got it wrong regarding a ‘new, third type of property asset’? Dr Stephen Castell responds to the Law Commission's final report on digital assets, contending that the Commission has erred by proposing a new legal status for digital and crypto assets that is unnecessary and scientifically incorrect. He argues that the Commission's attempt to distinguish between different sets of algorithmic data as a new category of property is a technical fallacy and that existing Common Law can address any legal concerns. Castell warns that the proposed new property status could lead to miscarriages of justice akin to past instances such as PO Horizon, and highlights the Commission's limited understanding of technical nuances in law making. Full Article Here

How AI and blockchain can transform the supply chain - AI and blockchains are crucial to guarantee effective supply chain management. The two technologies may improve the experience for suppliers and end customers by driving higher automation and providing scalability, expanding connection across supply networks and enhancing traceability in commodity movement. AI and blockchain technology are increasingly being seen as solutions to help alleviate some of the problems associated with supply chain management. Full Article Here How can a small business get onto the metaverse? - whilst it may sound like an open-world game on steroids, the metaverse has attracted attention from a number of the largest businesses across the globe, with some having poured millions into obtaining real estate in the metaverse. Adidas purchased a plot of land in The Sandbox with plans to fill it with branded content and merchandise, and PwC's Hong Kong branch, not wanting to miss out on the potential benefits, also purchased virtual land in The Sandbox in 2022. Furthermore, companies such as Meta and Microsoft have developed entire virtual workplaces (Microsoft's Mesh and Meta's Horizon), albeit relatively simple constructs. Full Article Here Why is digital cash ‘on its way’? - arguably, the 2008 banking crisis spawned a desire to have an alternative form of cash/payments as taxpayers questioned why they were being forced to bail out the bankers. Trust in bankers took another hit with the LIBOR revelation and bankers being fined $9billion in 2015.  As society becomes ever more digitised, with the desire also to access services 24/7, it seem inevitable that cash is to be offered in a digital format. But this then raises concerns as to a potential loss of privacy….. Full Article Here Looking after your digital assets - interested in digital assets, but don't know where to start? Here we take a look at what digital wallets are, the difference between custodial and non-custodial wallets, and some tips on how to start. Full Article Here

According to OMFIF’s Global Public Investor 2025 report, central banks remain wary of digital assets, with 93% holding no crypto and no plans to change. Whilst family offices and sovereign funds debate gold versus Bitcoin as alternatives to the dollar, central bankers cite legal, technical and liquidity risks. Meanwhile, the US races ahead with the GENIUS Act and talk of a strategic Bitcoin reserve, leaving Europe and others to decide whether to join the digital finance shift or risk falling behind. The question now is whether digital innovation will reshape global finance under private control or be subsumed into the existing regulated system.Key highlights:The impact of the Genius Act in the U.S. on stablecoin integrationWhy 95% of central banks remain hesitant about digital assetsThe efficiency advantage of stablecoins for large-scale transactionsChallenges facing Bitcoin as a digital gold alternativeHow stablecoins could maintain the dollar's global reserve statusThe discussion explores the delicate balance between innovation and regulation in the digital currency space, while examining the potential for reduced transaction costs and improved cross-border payments for SMEs.Ready to understand how digital currencies are reshaping our financial future? Tune in to this enlightening episode of the Digital Byte Show with Johnny Fry and John Orchard.Full Article Here

Discover how the ultra-wealthy are shifting away from traditional currencies to embrace stablecoins for luxury real estate transactions! In this eye-opening episode of Digital Bytes, hosts Jonny Fry, Lee Birkett, and Barry James explore the groundbreaking intersection of digital currencies and property investment. Lee Birkett shares fascinating insights from his journey in financial services, introducing BIPs and Moneybrain - a revolutionary platform transforming global digital exchanges. The discussion highlights a remarkable case study in Jersey, where fractional ownership of high-value properties is becoming a reality through blockchain technology. Key highlights:- Evolution from traditional banking to innovative digital solutions- How stablecoins are democratizing access to luxury real estate- Moneybrain's role in simplifying investment processes- Tokenized debt enabling access to £30 million development projects- Quick bank account setups and secure global transactions Ready to understand how digital currencies are reshaping the future of property investment? Don't miss this transformative episode that could change your perspective on real estate investment forever. Listen now to stay ahead of the curve in the evolving world of decentralized finance!00:00:00 - Revolutionizing Property Investment with Stablecoins00:02:31 - Introduction to Moneybrain00:04:30 - Understanding Stablecoins and Digital Money00:06:33 - Fractional Property Ownership Explained00:09:19 - Investing in Luxury Real Estate00:12:00 - Impact of Dollarization on Economies00:13:41 - Tokenizing Debt for Retail Investors00:16:16 - Revolutionizing Banking and Property Investment00:19:06 - Yield Options for Digital PoundsNewsletter:How stablecoins are revolutionising property investment - stablecoins and blockchain tokenisation are transforming real estate by enabling faster, programmable and potentially global property transactions. With $379 trillion in real estate value, 75% is in the form of residential as opposed to commercial property andstablecoins offer a faster, cheaper alternative to traditional, slow-moving systems such the UK Land Registry. Meanwhile, the Channel Island of Jersey is piloting tokenised debt, enabling fractional ownership and instant settlement. But whilst the model promises greater access and efficiency, it raises unresolved legal, regulatory and ethical questions around ownership rights, platform risk and housing inequality. The future of real estate may be digital, but it must be built on more than simply code.Full Article Here

Dive into a fascinating exploration of how stablecoins and CBDCs are reshaping our financial future, featuring expert insights from the Digital Monetary Institute's John Orchard and Lewis McLellan. The discussion reveals how Donald Trump's executive order could potentially trigger a stablecoin boom in the U.S., while the pending Genius Act aims to regulate this emerging sector. Key highlights:- The shift from retail to wholesale applications of CBDCs- Banks' preparations to issue their own stablecoins- Circle's strategic acquisition of HashNote- Impact of stablecoins on the U.S. dollar's global role- Challenges of creating liquid markets and ensuring interoperability- Cross-border payment complexities and regulatory frameworks The conversation underscores how traditional banks are adapting to digital transformation while grappling with regulatory challenges and competition from innovative financial products like tokenized money market funds. Ready to understand how digital currencies could transform your financial future? Listen to this essential episode:00:00:00 - Exploring the U.S. Stable Coin Boom00:02:55 - Central Banks and Stablecoins Discussion00:06:59 - Stablecoin Regulation and Banking Competition00:10:46 - Emerging Trends in Stablecoins and Tokenization00:13:45 - Impact of Stablecoins on Dollar Sovereignty00:15:59 - Impact of Dollarization on Local Economies00:19:37 - Trump and the Bitcoin Conference00:21:50 - Digital Currency Adoption in Small Towns00:24:42 - Challenges of Digital Currency Interoperability00:28:08 - Future of Stablecoins and Central Banks

As digital currencies and AI systems increasingly shape our daily lives, are we unknowingly trading privacy for convenience - and control for comfort? Could programmable money become a tool for mass surveillance, nudging behaviour and conditioning spending? And, as central banks and tech firms quietly lay the foundation for a fully transparent financial system, who safeguards the citizen? If algorithms engineer our happiness and filter our choices, is it still truly ours - or just a curated illusion? At the edge of this digital pivot, the question is not merely where money is headed, but whether we can preserve the unpredictable, messy and deeply human aspects of life within it.Full Article Here

Discover how the future of energy trading could be as simple as selling excess solar power to your neighbors! In this fascinating episode, Alex Bausch from Two Tokens unveils groundbreaking initiatives in energy tokenization that are reshaping how we think about power distribution. Learn how Two Tokens is collaborating with IBM and major banks to democratize solar panel ownership, making green energy accessible even to apartment dwellers. Alex explains their innovative approach to tokenizing solar panel ownership and creating peer-to-peer energy markets, potentially revolutionizing how we share and trade energy resources. The episode also tackles an urgent environmental challenge: the recycling of a billion solar panels. Through partnerships with Green Energy for All, Two Tokens is transforming this potential waste into valuable assets for sun-rich countries, demonstrating how tokenization can create sustainable solutions while building local economies. Ready to understand how blockchain technology could help solve the global energy crisis? Tune in to hear about the future of decentralized energy systems and discover how you might soon be part of this energy revolution. *Visit powerofthemany.org and twotokens.org to learn more about these groundbreaking initiatives.* 00:00:00 - Future of Energy Discussion00:01:25 - Understanding Tokenization and Its Applications00:04:42 - Tokenizing Energy and Solar Panels00:07:29 - Tokenizing Solar Energy Production00:11:04 - Recycling Old Solar Panels00:13:07 - Reusing Solar Panels in Sunbelt Countries00:14:24 - Democratizing Renewable Energy Sharing00:15:58 - Energy Sharing and Tokenization Explained00:17:59 - Tokenizing Energy for Decentralized Communities00:21:50 - Empowering Local Energy Production

Dive into a fascinating conversation with Oliver King-Smith as he shares his transition from Silicon Valley to founding smartR AI in Scotland. In this compelling episode, Oliver contrasts the practical impact of AI with cryptocurrency's speculative nature, highlighting groundbreaking applications like AlphaFold in medical research. The discussion explores how AI's evolution might reshape digital currencies, with particular attention to Gresham's Law and the potential impact of enhanced transaction tracking. Oliver offers unique insights into regional approaches to AI adoption, from the Middle East's enthusiastic embrace to Europe's regulatory focus. Key highlights:- The transformative potential of AI versus cryptocurrency- Regional differences in AI adoption and regulation- Practical advice for SMEs integrating AI- The importance of owning and controlling AI systems- Real-world success stories in AI implementation Ready to understand how AI is reshaping our digital future? Listen to this episode for an insider's perspective on the technology that's transforming business as we know it.00:00:00 - AI's Impact on Bitcoin00:01:52 - Bitcoin's Purpose and Societal Impact00:05:16 - Tracking Ransomware and Cryptocurrency Risks00:09:18 - AI's Impact on Business Transformation00:11:12 - Leveraging AI for Small Businesses00:13:43 - Importance of AI Adoption for SMEs00:16:07 - AI's Impact on Bitcoin00:17:10 - Challenges of AI in Corporate America00:18:48 - Why Choose Us for AI Solutions00:20:34 - Future of Cryptocurrency Insights

Cryptohedge funds promise high volatility, deep liquidity and strong risk-adjusted returns, yet most struggle to scale. With 80% managing under $50M in assets under management, limited fees make profitability challenging, especially after operational costs. Institutional investors hesitate due to a lack of in-house blockchain expertise, fund size constraints and weak risk management infrastructure. Whilst the market offers inefficiencies ripe for skilled traders, true institutional adoption requires consolidation, better investor education and operational maturity. The billion-dollar opportunity exists, but only for those who can bridge the gap between crypto’s potential and institutional demands.Full Article HereDive into a fascinating conversation with Paul Ridley, CEO of Old Street Digital, as he unveils the challenges and opportunities at the intersection of traditional finance and cryptocurrency. Discover why institutional investors hesitate to enter the crypto space and how the knowledge gap remains a significant barrier to widespread adoption. Key highlights:- The struggle of small crypto funds operating below $50M- How blockchain technology is reshaping investment landscapes- The critical role of education in building investor confidence- Real-time data innovations enhancing market transparency- Strategies for fund managers to improve communication and marketing Paul shares valuable insights on bridging the gap between sophisticated investment strategies and effective investor communication, drawing from his journey from traditional fund management to blockchain innovation. Old Street Digital's approach to providing operational support and capital demonstrates a practical solution to help promising managers scale in this evolving market. Ready to understand the future of institutional crypto investment? Listen to this episode for an insider's perspective on navigating the challenges and opportunities in this dynamic space. 00:00:00 - Background on Old Street Digital00:02:27 - Challenges for Crypto Investors and Managers00:05:46 - Challenges for New Fund Managers00:07:10 - Bitcoin's Dominance in Crypto Market00:09:58 - Challenges in Crypto Fund Management00:12:15 - Supporting Crypto Fund Managers' Growth00:15:16 - Challenges for Small Fund Managers00:17:49 - Exploring Investment Opportunities

Discover how stablecoins could revolutionize the $2.5 trillion payment market in this fascinating conversation between Johnny Fry and Tony McLaughlin. Drawing from his extensive banking experience, Tony shares insights on why stablecoins might become the next mainstream payment method, potentially growing to a remarkable $5 trillion market. The episode explores:- Why stablecoins need to be classified as cash equivalents- The comparison between stablecoin distribution and traditional banking systems- How hosted wallets could facilitate stablecoin integration- The potential for multiple issuers, from banks to corporations- Parallels with historical payment methods like traveler's checks A key takeaway is the vision of a diverse ecosystem where various stablecoin issuers coexist, creating a mutualized acceptance network that benefits both the U.S. economy and international relations. Ready to understand how stablecoins could reshape the future of global payments? Tune in to this thought-provoking episode of Digital Bytes for an expert perspective on the evolution of digital money. 00:00:00 - The Future of Digital Money00:01:18 - Impact of Stablecoins on Corporate Treasury00:05:16 - Challenges of Stablecoin Adoption00:08:00 - Future of Stablecoins and Interoperability00:10:26 - Understanding Stablecoin Market Dynamics00:13:00 - Distribution Models in Payment Systems00:15:31 - Future of Stablecoins and Market Dynamics00:17:57 - Benefits of a Pluralistic Stablecoin Market00:20:37 - Traveler's Checks and Stablecoins00:22:43 - Future of Stablecoins and Trust00:26:22 - Types of Issuers for Stablecoins00:28:26 - Programmable Payments and Supply Chains

Agentic AI and large language models are converging with programmable payments to revolutionise finance whereby enabling intelligent wallets that automate decisions and real-time transactions. As legacy systems lag, countries such as the UK have a chance to lead by building secure, AI-powered financial infrastructure.Discover how the blend of AI and APIs could revolutionize financial systems, as Dan Feaheny shares groundbreaking insights into programmable reasoning and real-time data in the fintech world. Using π as a metaphor for the continuous evolution of financial technology, Dan explains how agentic AI could transform payment processes and cash flow management. The episode tackles crucial challenges facing traditional banks like Standard Chartered and HSBC, particularly their struggle to support small businesses effectively. Learn why the current SWIFT system is becoming obsolete and how a real-time identity wallet could streamline international transactions. Key highlights:- The role of programmable reasoning in finance- How agentic AI could automate payment workflows- The critical need for digital identity in financial systems- Potential solutions for cross-border payment inefficiencies- Impact of AI on workforce evolution and economic growth Don't miss this fascinating exploration of how emerging technologies could reshape the future of finance and potentially save trillions in cross-border transactions. Listen now to understand the transformative power of AI in the financial sector. 00:00:00 - Introduction to Programmable Payments00:01:08 - Moving to Dublin and Fintech Insights00:02:25 - Banking and Technology Inflection Point00:03:44 - Challenges in Cash Flow Management00:05:06 - Impact of Agentic AI on Payments00:07:20 - Challenges in Supply Chains and Trade Finance00:09:22 - Challenges in Digital Payment Systems00:12:20 - CBDCs vs Stablecoins: The Future of Value00:14:04 - Agentic AI and Cost Effectiveness00:15:36 - Job Creation and AI Controversies00:16:24 - Impact of AI on Job Market

Dive into a fascinating discussion with Breige Tinnelly from Archax, the UK's first FCA-regulated digital asset broker, exchange, and custodian. Discover how they're revolutionizing financial markets by creating the world's first global digital central securities depository. ## Key Highlights:- Archax's groundbreaking role in bridging traditional finance and crypto- Development of a digital market infrastructure for asset issuance and settlement- Global expansion initiatives including recent moves in Spain and US- Challenges in digitizing securities and enabling digital payments- Progress in tokenized treasuries and digital assets as collateral The conversation explores how regulated custodians are enabling multi-asset, multi-chain capabilities, while highlighting the evolving regulatory landscape for stablecoins and digital assets. Learn about the UK's potential digital gilt issuance and its implications for financial innovation. 🎧 Ready to understand the future of digital finance? Listen to this episode for an insider's perspective on how traditional finance is being transformed through blockchain technology.Chapters:00:00:00 - Stablecoins and the Future of R-Tracks00:00:42 - Bridging Traditional and Digital Finance00:03:35 - The Importance of a Digital Central Securities Depository00:05:45 - Tokenization Ahead of Digital Payments00:08:15 - The Evolving Landscape of Digital Payments00:10:17 - Regulatory Uncertainty Hinders UK Digital Currency Adoption00:12:56 - Exploring Digital Finance Infrastructure in the UK00:14:42 - Tokenized Money Market Funds: A New Frontier00:17:38 - Adoption of Treasury and Digital Gilt in the UKStablecoins are emerging as a bridge between traditional finance and decentralised finance (with a market cap exceeding $220 billion) and are expected to double in 2025. They are increasingly used for payments, remittances and liquidity management, but regulatory uncertainty remains a key hurdle. As major financial institutions adopt tokenised assets, the battle between stablecoins, CBDCs and deposit tokens will shape the future of digital money. So, will stablecoins become a dominant force in global finance, or will central banks and regulators rein them in?Full Article Here

Dive into a fascinating exploration of China's shifting cryptocurrency landscape as former Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission experts Angela Wong and Clara Chu share insider perspectives. The episode reveals how China's stance on crypto has evolved from a complete ban in 2021 to a more nuanced approach, with recent court commentary suggesting recognition of digital assets as property.A key insight emerges: Hong Kong may serve as China's experimental "sandbox" for cryptocurrency innovation, potentially pioneering the digitization of real assets before expansion into mainland China. The discussion highlights Hong Kong's ambitious journey toward becoming Asia's regulated crypto hub, with comprehensive frameworks being developed for exchanges, fund managers, and advisors.The conversation also explores the intriguing contrast between China's restrictive cryptocurrency policies and its enthusiastic embrace of blockchain technology, exemplified by successful platforms like Alipay and WeChat. This dichotomy offers valuable lessons for both Eastern and Western approaches to digital finance.🎧 Tune in to understand how these regulatory shifts could reshape the future of digital assets in Asia and beyond!CHAPTERS:00:00:00 - Insights from Hong Kong's Crypto Regulatory Pioneers00:01:55 - Navigating Regulatory Landscapes for Fintech and Crypto Businesses00:03:45 - China's Shifting Stance on Cryptocurrency Regulation00:07:12 - Hong Kong as Asia's Crypto Hub00:10:00 - Tokenization of Financial Instruments in Hong Kong00:13:11 - Blockchain Adoption in China: Opportunities and Perspectives00:15:08 - Navigating Nationalization and Trade ChallengesFull Article Here

Programmable bank accounts integrate smart contracts with traditional banking, so enabling automated, rule-based transactions without manual intervention. They enhance efficiency, transparency and security in financial operations by allowing pre-authorised payments, escrow management and multi-signature approvals. Smart contracts execute transactions based on predefined conditions, reducing friction in areas such as supply chain finance, cross-border payments and subscription management. By keeping programmable logic separate from banking infrastructure, compliance and innovation can coexist, paving the way for fully programmable digital money and greater financial automation.Full Article HereDiscover how programmable bank accounts and smart contracts are revolutionizing the financial landscape. In this fascinating episode, Adam and Alistair, co-founders of Minima and Mercury respectively, unveil their groundbreaking work at the intersection of traditional banking and blockchain technology. Learn how Minima's lightweight blockchain protocol is enabling IoT devices to create immutable audit trails, while Mercury's innovative electronic money institution is challenging traditional banking norms with enhanced flexibility and transparency. **Key Highlights:**- Integration of blockchain with traditional banking systems- Smart contracts automating complex financial transactions- Real-world applications in shipping and insurance industries- Cost-saving potential through automated claim settlements- Future of peer-to-peer financial communication Chapters:00:00:00 - Programmable Bank Accounts: Unlocking the Future of Finance00:01:51 - The Rise of IoT and Smart Devices00:04:36 - Programmable Banking: Leveraging Blockchain for Efficiency00:08:16 - Marrying Legacy Banking and Blockchain00:10:25 - Bridging Traditional Finance and Blockchain00:11:38 - Integrating Fiat Money and Blockchain Technology00:13:44 - Automating Shipping Payments with Blockchain00:16:49 - Automated Insurance Settlements with Sensor Data00:18:31 - Decentralized Blockchain and Fintech Integration

Imagine losing millions in Bitcoin by accidentally throwing away your computer - a nightmare that could be prevented with the right technology. In this fascinating episode, Pat Rug of Cheyenne Mint reveals how military-grade cryptography is being repurposed to create ultra-secure physical digital wallets for cryptocurrency storage. Drawing from his expertise in anti-tamper technology, Pat explains how their air-gapped wallet system provides unprecedented protection against hacking and theft. The conversation takes an intriguing turn as he discusses the surprising connection between the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency and the rise of Dogecoin, suggesting potential government involvement in cryptocurrency adoption. Key points covered:- Military-grade security for cryptocurrency storage- Government's role in digital currency adoption- The impact of inflation on fiat currencies- Innovative solutions for secure asset recovery- Future plans for institutional-grade security servicesChapters:00:00:00 - Cheyenne Mint: Securing Crypto with Military-Grade Tech00:03:14 - Doge, Stablecoins, and Trump's Digital Currency Push00:06:07 - The Rise of Stablecoins and Tokenized Assets00:09:12 - Air-Gapped Wallets: Secure Digital Asset Storage00:12:50 - The Cheyenne Mint: A New Player in US CoinageFull Article Here

As central banks accelerate CBDC development, stablecoins are emerging as a dominant alternative, already powering global transactions. But whilst CBDCs promise efficiency and financial inclusion, concerns over privacy, banking disruption and real-world utility persist. Meanwhile, stablecoins offer speed, decentralisation and interoperability but face regulatory uncertainty. The future of money is at a crossroads - so, who will define the next era of digital finance?As stablecoins gain institutional backing and power faster, cheaper global transactions, CBDCs struggle with privacy concerns and adoption hurdles. Fintech firms are leveraging stablecoin infrastructure to bypass outdated banking rails, raising a pivotal question: if stablecoins offer programmable, borderless money, do we still need banks? The financial landscape is shifting but who will emerge as the dominant force in digital payments?Part 1 of our Full Article HerePart 2 of our Full Article HereWith 81% of central banks exploring digital currencies and half planning launches within five years, the future of money stands at a crucial crossroads. In this thought-provoking episode, an all new AI Powered set of hosts, review Blockchain Experts James Tylee and Johnny Fry, dissect the heated debate between Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) and stablecoins.The discussion explores how digital payment solutions like M-Pesa and PIX are already transforming financial landscapes, while examining the revolutionary potential of programmable payments in automating payroll, invoicing, and supply chain management.Key points covered:- Privacy concerns and government oversight in CBDCs- Advantages of stablecoins: speed, global reach, and smart contracts- Regulatory challenges and stability issues- The possibility of a hybrid future where CBDCs and stablecoins coexist- Impact on financial inclusion and cross-border paymentsJoin us for this fascinating exploration of digital currencies and their role in shaping the future of global finance. Whether you're a crypto enthusiast or simply curious about the future of money, this episode offers valuable insights into the transformation of our financial system.

The digital asset custody sector is rapidly evolving, yet remains fragmented and largely unregulated in the UK, leaving investors exposed to risks. Unlike traditional finance, where custodians operate under clear legal frameworks, crypto custodians lack defined protections - often holding client assets in omnibus accounts that could be vulnerable in insolvency cases. As tokenisation expands across financial markets, the demand for secure and compliant digital custodians will grow, necessitating stronger security measures, operational resilience and global regulatory alignment to protect investors.Mark Rowan and Rowan Milne from Kroll, a leading financial advisory firm, discuss their work helping traditional finance clients navigate the risks and opportunities of the digital asset space. As more mainstream investors look to gain exposure to crypto and other digital assets, Kroll is providing guidance on building robust custodian infrastructure and managing the unexpected risks that come with this new frontier. Their expertise spans both the traditional finance world and the evolving digital asset landscape, positioning them to help bridge the gap and enable safer, more informed participation in this rapidly transforming market. The speakers discuss the fragmented nature of the digital asset custodian market, where clients seek the same level of trust and security they have with traditional financial depositories. They note the opportunity for consolidation and standardization in this space, as well as the varying levels of custody services offered, from offline "cold" wallets to more accessible "hot" wallets. The speakers emphasize the importance of balancing security and accessibility when it comes to holding digital assets, as the risk of hacks remains a significant concern. The speakers discuss the importance of secure custody for digital assets, highlighting the need for a balance between easy access and robust protection. They compare this to traditional finance, where one has a current account for daily spending and a deposit account for long-term storage. The speakers then outline the three main options for storing digital assets: self-custody, exchange-based custody, and independent third-party custodians. They note that the US is emerging as a leading jurisdiction in this space, with regulators and policymakers aiming to foster innovation while also building trust through appropriate regulation. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the evolving landscape of digital asset custody and the opportunities for firms to engage in shaping the regulatory framework. In this podcast discussion, Mark Turner and his colleague Rowan Milne share insights into the growing interest from institutions in digital custody and upcoming plans for asset managers in this space. 00:00:00 - Navigating the Digital Asset Landscape: Kroll's Regulatory Expertise00:01:57 - The Rise of Digital Assets and Traditional Investor Involvement00:04:01 - Bridging the Gap: Consolidation in the Digital Asset Custody Market00:06:35 - Custodian Services: Cold Wallets vs. Hot Wallets00:07:46 - Risks of Hot Wallets and Crypto Hacks00:08:27 - Balancing Hot and Cold Wallets00:09:26 - Custodian Risks in Crypto Investments00:10:38 - The Rise of US Regulation in Digital Assets00:12:51 - Tracking Down Experts on Digital CustodyFull Article Here

Imagine a world where moral frameworks are developed collaboratively, just like open-source software. This fascinating episode explores how blockchain technology and the principles of open-source development could revolutionize the way we establish shared ethical values. Tony McLaughlin, a traditional finance veteran, shares his vision of creating an "open source morality" through decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs). Drawing parallels between software development and moral philosophy, the discussion examines how community-driven approaches could replace top-down ethical frameworks. Key points discussed:- The comparison between "cathedral and bazaar" models in both software and moral development- Using DAOs to collectively develop and govern moral codes- The potential of GitHub-like platforms for collaborative ethical framework building- Integrating cryptocurrency principles with moral philosophy This thought-provoking conversation challenges traditional approaches to morality and suggests a new path forward in our digital age. Don't miss this innovative exploration of how technology could help us build a more resilient and inclusive moral foundation. Tune in to hear how the future of ethics might be shaped by the tools we use to build software. Chapters:00:00:00 - Towards an Open-Source Morality00:03:23 - The Lego Set of AI and Open Source00:05:58 - Navigating Moral Uncertainty in a Changing World00:08:47 - Decentralized Moral Code: Voting with Tokens00:13:23 - Sympathy, Compassion, and Empathy00:14:24 - Distinguishing Sympathy, Compassion, and Empathy00:17:59 - Exploring Moral Beliefs in a Secular Age00:19:48 - The Moral Foundations of Blockchain and Digital AssetsMoral code: an open-source project to create the Linux of morality - using GitHub as a platform for collaborative development, modelled after the “Bazaar” approach of open-source software such as Linux. Contributions would be governed by a decentralised autonomous organisation (DAO), ensuring democratic decision-making. And whilst innovative, the concept raises challenges including inclusivity, cultural diversity and the complexity of moral deliberation, suggesting that engaging with this project can be a fun, thought-provoking way to explore and build a shared ethical framework for modern society.Full Article Here

Discover how emerging markets are leading the digital payment revolution, with Brazil's PIX and India's UPI showing the way forward. This fascinating episode reveals how an early electronic trading initiative at Merrill Lynch unexpectedly influenced the 2008 financial crisis, while highlighting the urgent need for modernized payment systems in today's tokenized world. The discussion explores how innovative payment solutions like M-PESA in Africa and rising fintech stars like Nubank and Revolut are challenging traditional banking strongholds. With Ernst & Young's recent adoption of PayPal's Paxos stablecoin, we're witnessing a shift toward faster, more user-friendly payment systems that leverage mobile numbers, email, and digital wallets. Are London and New York's days as undisputed financial capitals numbered? Listen to this eye-opening episode to understand how emerging markets are reshaping the future of global finance and why traditional institutions must adapt or risk becoming obsolete. 🎧 **Ready to understand the future of money? Tune in now to hear the full story!**Chapters:00:00:00 - Back on the Air After Years00:00:47 - Upgrading Payment Systems: PIX, UPI, and Lessons from Brazil00:02:31 - Becoming an Electronic Trading Partner00:03:32 - The Fall of Banking Giants00:04:01 - The Financial Crisis and the Need for Payment System Reform00:05:40 - The Rise of Digital Currencies and Stablecoins00:06:38 - Enabling Seamless Payments for the Masses00:08:59 - The Rise of Non-Bank Stablecoins and Fintech Disruption00:11:02 - Discussing Blockchain and Digital Assets