Blockchain beyond borders: A dive into global collaboration and innovation

Blockchain beyond borders: A dive into global collaboration and innovation

My name is Jenny Zheng, Co-Founder of Blockcast.cc, and I’m excited to share some incredible insights from my recent participation as a moderator at a recent talk show episode titled “Blockchain Beyond Borders: Building Global Bridges for Innovation and Adoption.”

The event took place in Dubai, where industry experts convened to dive into the transformative power of blockchain technology. Our panel included some remarkable names: Anndy Lian, an intergovernmental blockchain expert from Singapore; Kris Bennett, Co-Founder and Chief Learning Officer of the Blockchain Training Alliance in the USA; Raj Kapoor, Founder and CEO of the India Blockchain Alliance; and Shailesh Kunnath, Co-Founder of Masary Capital in the UAE.

Identifying peal solutions amidst the fluff

During our engaging discussion, we delved into the pivotal factors that define success in the world of blockchain. To kick things off, Kapoor underscored the crucial importance of solving tangible real-world problems with blockchain solutions.

Kapoor aptly pointed out the overabundance of proposals that lack substance, urging entrepreneurs to rise above the noise. According to him, true innovation requires addressing genuine challenges or elevating existing solutions to create a meaningful impact.

Critical criteria for sustainable blockchain projects

As the conversation flowed, I shared my perspective on the essential criteria I employ to assess blockchain projects. My focus rests on the urgency of addressing real-world issues, ensuring that projects demonstrate their ability to enhance solutions or tackle pressing matters.

I don’t stop at the financial aspects; I look deeper into the commitment and tenacity of project promoters. I also emphasise the value of validation, whether through a small customer base or a proof of concept.

Additionally, I gauge the dedication of project promoters and whether their family and friends have invested in their vision. These insights underline the intricate nature of project evaluation.

Perspectives on blockchain adoption

Bennett joined in to offer his unique take on blockchain adoption. He highlighted the common tendency to prioritise technology in emerging sectors, cautioning against overlooking practicality and tangible value.

Bennett challenged the notion that being first to market guarantees success, drawing a historical parallel to Amazon’s ascent in e-commerce. He emphasised the importance of conveying value without solely relying on technical jargon.

His advice? Entrepreneurs should articulate their solutions’ benefits independently of blockchain or crypto references. Moreover, Bennett stressed the significance of cultivating a well-rounded team with diverse expertise to drive success.

Community, education, and future growth

Lian shared his insights, shedding light on the role of education and community in nurturing blockchain growth. He emphasised that education should encompass entire ecosystems, including venture capitalists and regulators, not just individuals.

Lian applauded Dubai’s proactive stance in fostering blockchain education and innovation. Lian also stressed the vitality of a vibrant and supportive community for sustained blockchain adoption. He championed collaboration among stakeholders to propel the technology’s advancement.

Regulatory strategies for blockchain innovation

Shifting the spotlight to regulatory matters, Lian, drawing from his experience with governments and regulatory bodies, highlighted the evolving landscape of blockchain regulation. He acknowledged the challenges countries face in establishing regulatory frameworks for this emerging technology.

Lian emphasised the significance of cross-border transactions and the need for cooperation to ensure financial sector stability. He advocated for clear regulatory guidelines to nurture blockchain’s growth while safeguarding financial systems.

In conclusion

As we navigate the evolving world of blockchain, collaboration, education, and problem-solving, emerge as pivotal pillars for success.

The insights shared by our esteemed panellists underscore the dynamic nature of the blockchain landscape, revealing the need for innovative solutions, cohesive teams, engaged communities, and regulatory clarity to unleash the technology’s transformative potential on a global scale.

Amidst the opportunities and challenges, one thing remains certain: the journey to success is illuminated by innovation and collaboration. Stay curious and keep exploring the blockchain frontier!

 

Source: https://e27.co/blockchain-beyond-borders-a-dive-into-global-collaboration-and-innovation-20230823/

Anndy Lian is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur who is known for his work in the government sector. He is a best selling book author- “NFT: From Zero to Hero” and “Blockchain Revolution 2030”.

Currently, he is appointed as the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization, championing national digitization. Prior to his current appointments, he was the Chairman of BigONE Exchange, a global top 30 ranked crypto spot exchange and was also the Advisory Board Member for Hyundai DAC, the blockchain arm of South Korea’s largest car manufacturer Hyundai Motor Group. Lian played a pivotal role as the Blockchain Advisor for Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in the Asia-Pacific region.

An avid supporter of incubating start-ups, Anndy has also been a private investor for the past eight years. With a growth investment mindset, Anndy strategically demonstrates this in the companies he chooses to be involved with. He believes that what he is doing through blockchain technology currently will revolutionise and redefine traditional businesses. He also believes that the blockchain industry has to be “redecentralised”.

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Risks and Rewards: A deep dive into Hong Kong’s crypto licensing regime

Risks and Rewards: A deep dive into Hong Kong’s crypto licensing regime

In recent times, Hong Kong has emerged as a key player in the global crypto market. The region’s location and regulatory environment have attracted many crypto investors and businesses. However, until recently, Hong Kong lacked a clear regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies, which raised concerns about investor protection and market stability. To address these concerns, Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) announced a new licensing regime for crypto exchanges in November 2021. The new regulations will require all virtual asset trading platforms operating in Hong Kong to obtain a license from the SFC, making it the first jurisdiction in Asia to implement such a regime.

Many investors and industry players have welcomed the move, seeing it as a positive step towards making Hong Kong a major player in the global crypto market. The new licensing regime is expected to attract more institutional investors to Hong Kong and improve the transparency and credibility of the crypto industry in the region.

However, some investors and industry players remain cautious and have raised concerns about the potential risks associated with the new regulation. In this opinion article, we will explore the opportunities and risks associated with the new Hong Kong crypto regulation, compare it with Singapore and South Korea, and discuss whether China is likely to back out.

Pros and Cons

The new Hong Kong crypto regulation presents several opportunities for the industry. Firstly, the licensing regime allows for the creation of new crypto exchanges, which will attract more investors and create more jobs. The new exchange, called Huobi Hong Kong, will focus on institutional investors and high-net worth individuals. This is good news for the industry as institutional investors are known to bring stability and liquidity to the market.

Secondly, the new regulation is expected to attract more foreign investment into Hong Kong. Hong Kong’s strong determination to regain the title of global crypto center is reflected in the series of policies and statements issued by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority. This is expected to create a favorable business environment that will attract foreign investors and companies to Hong Kong. This will benefit not only the crypto industry but also the overall economy of Hong Kong.

Thirdly, the new regulation is expected to enhance transparency and reduce the risk of money laundering and fraud. The Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission has taken a regulatory approach to cryptocurrencies, which contrasts with recent actions in the US of regulation by enforcement. This approach will help build trust among investors and promote long-term growth in the industry.

Although the new Hong Kong crypto regulation presents several opportunities, it also comes with some risks. One of the biggest risks is the potential for increased market volatility. The crypto market is notoriously volatile, and the creation of new exchanges and the influx of more investors may exacerbate this. Moreover, there is the possibility of fraud and manipulation, which can further increase volatility and undermine investor confidence.

Secondly, the new regulation may lead to a concentration of power in the hands of a few large exchanges. This can lead to a lack of competition, which can result in higher fees and a decrease in innovation. This is a problem that has been observed in other industries, such as banking and telecommunications, where a lack of competition has resulted in poorer service and higher prices.

Thirdly, there is the risk of government interference. While the Hong Kong government has been supportive of the new regulation, there is always the possibility that it may change its stance. This could lead to a situation where the government restricts or bans crypto trading altogether. This would have a devastating impact on the industry and its investors.

Comparison with Singapore and South Korea

Hong Kong is not the only country in the region that is looking to regulate the crypto industry. Singapore and South Korea have also taken steps to regulate the industry. Singapore has been proactive in its approach, establishing a regulatory framework that encourages innovation while protecting investors. This has made Singapore a major player in the crypto market, with several major exchanges based in the country.

South Korea, on the other hand, has taken a more cautious approach. In 2017, the government banned initial coin offerings (ICOs), citing concerns about fraud and money laundering . However, the ban was lifted in 2018, and the government has since established a regulatory framework that requires exchanges to register with the Financial Services Commission. While this has led to a decrease in the number of exchanges in the country, it has also improved investor protection and reduced the risk of fraud.

Compared to Singapore and South Korea, Hong Kong’s new crypto regulation is more similar to Singapore’s approach. Both countries have taken a proactive approach to regulation, with a focus on promoting innovation while protecting investors. However, Hong Kong’s new licensing regime is more focused on institutional investors, while Singapore’s regulatory framework is designed to cater to a broader range of investors.

Possible Backlash from China

Finally, there is the question of whether China is likely to back out of the new Hong Kong crypto regulation. China has been cracking down on the crypto industry, with a ban on ICOs and cryptocurrency exchanges in 2017. However, there are indications that China may be softening its stance. In 2019, President Xi Jinping stated that China should accelerate the development of blockchain technology. Moreover, in 2021, several Chinese companies announced plans to enter the crypto industry.

Despite these positive signs, there is still a risk that China may object to the new Hong Kong crypto regulation. China sees Hong Kong as part of its territory and may view the new regulation as a challenge to its authority. If this happens, it could lead to a deterioration of relations between Hong Kong and China, which would have far-reaching consequences for the industry and its investors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the new Hong Kong crypto regulation presents both opportunities and risks. While it is expected to attract more investors and create a favorable business environment, there is also the potential for increased market volatility, concentration of power, and government interference. Compared to Singapore and South Korea, Hong Kong’s approach is more focused on institutional investors, but shares a similar emphasis on promoting innovation and protecting investors. Whether China will back out of the new regulation remains to be seen, but there is a risk that it may object, leading to a deterioration of relations between Hong Kong and China.

 

Source: https://www.financialexpress.com/blockchain/risks-and-rewards-a-deep-dive-into-hong-kongs-crypto-licensing-regime/2998952/

 

Anndy Lian is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur who is known for his work in the government sector. He is a best selling book author- “NFT: From Zero to Hero” and “Blockchain Revolution 2030”.

Currently, he is appointed as the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization, championing national digitization. Prior to his current appointments, he was the Chairman of BigONE Exchange, a global top 30 ranked crypto spot exchange and was also the Advisory Board Member for Hyundai DAC, the blockchain arm of South Korea’s largest car manufacturer Hyundai Motor Group. Lian played a pivotal role as the Blockchain Advisor for Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in the Asia-Pacific region.

An avid supporter of incubating start-ups, Anndy has also been a private investor for the past eight years. With a growth investment mindset, Anndy strategically demonstrates this in the companies he chooses to be involved with. He believes that what he is doing through blockchain technology currently will revolutionise and redefine traditional businesses. He also believes that the blockchain industry has to be “redecentralised”.

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Corporate Investment Times (November 2022): Turning You Into An NFT Hero

Corporate Investment Times (November 2022): Turning You Into An NFT Hero

Anndy Lian is a serial entrepreneur based in Singapore. He is always trying to work hard in the crypto and blockchain industry. When I first met him, he was actively investing in Layer 1 blockchains. Then he was advising a sovereign wealth fund and was the chairperson at an Esports association. He is always busy.

 

His journey started in 2017 during the ICO times. He started one of the earliest supply chain blockchain companies back then and moved on to advising governments as he felt that there were too many dodgy businesses going on in the crypto scene.

 

He is a fund manager and partner at a local capital market services licensed firm. He is a philanthropist, giving back to society by donating and spending time serving his Singapore community. His servant leadership and attitude is well-liked by his peers.

 

His latest book, “NFT: From Zero to Hero”, is aligned with what he does. He likes the technology behind NFT and never likes how projects are managing NFTs as if it is like a valueless Ponzi scheme. That is also why Anndy chooses to launch the book after the hype and not during the hype. He believes that this is the right time to launch a book to tell everyone about the good and bad of NFT and how the market is changing and building stronger than ever at the same time.

 

During this interview, he emphasized a few points. Firstly, he wants all to know that mastering the logic behind NFT is not difficult. You need only the correct mindset and set up clear purposes when creating the NFTs. There is also a lot of information online for you to read about, and there is no reason why you cannot understand it.

 

Secondly, he said that there are many good tools online to help you decide what you can consider buying. He has spent time using some of the tools and listed a handful in his book that he thinks are useful. “Instead of guessing what NFT to buy, use the statistics to aid your decision,” Anndy said.

 

Anndy also went on to share that data could be contradicting. For example, 10,000 NFTs were sold, but when you look at the on-chain wallet addresses, only 10 of them exist. These are the small details you need to catch when making a decision.

 

Thirdly, he wants people who read his book and look at the trends ahead. The general public knowledge is very superficial. Many people think that NFT is a quick money scheme and we are purely selling “air”. “The fact that NFT is not just about a jpeg profile picture is not known to many. This is disturbing.”

 

According to Anndy, we can look at creating medical platforms using NFTs and empowering patients with the ability to control their medical records. We can look at digitizing land title deeds using NFT too. “The NFT usage scenarios are limitless.”

 

I also took the chance to ask Anndy what we should invest in next. He said to follow the simple rules- Consider investing in projects with good utility, strong community, and always building. “If they do not have the above, there is no need to consider who is on their cap table and how strong their team is. Assuming they have a working tech solution.”

 

Lian added that some people said that investing in Layer 1 blockchain is a sure win is totally wrong. He said starting layer 1 is not difficult; sustaining it with good usage is the challenging part. You need a lot more money to make it work compared to layer 2.

 

He said that, similarly, some people hate meme coins and said they have no value. “I don’t see eye to eye on this. The value of a meme coin is in its community and the core team. If the community is strong, anything can happen.” He added that bad management is one of the core reasons why meme coins fail. “The tell-tale signs are obvious.”

 

Just like the same old Anndy we see on Twitter. He ended by saying, “not financial advice”.

 

Anndy Lian’s new book has sold more than 8,000 copies during its launch at Bybit NFT marketplace. He has subsequently listed them on leading platforms like Amazon and Google books. At the point of this interview, he told me that he had appointed a Singapore distributor who would put his books in major bookstores in the South East Asia region.

 

I also read that he was awarded an Honorary Doctoral Degree by the Academic Council of Ulaanbaatar Erdem University in recognition of his contribution to the development of productivity science in Mongolia. He is also completing his PhD soon.

 

Congratulations Anndy.

 

Source:

Anndy Lian is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur who is known for his work in the government sector. He is a best selling book author- “NFT: From Zero to Hero” and “Blockchain Revolution 2030”.

Currently, he is appointed as the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization, championing national digitization. Prior to his current appointments, he was the Chairman of BigONE Exchange, a global top 30 ranked crypto spot exchange and was also the Advisory Board Member for Hyundai DAC, the blockchain arm of South Korea’s largest car manufacturer Hyundai Motor Group. Lian played a pivotal role as the Blockchain Advisor for Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in the Asia-Pacific region.

An avid supporter of incubating start-ups, Anndy has also been a private investor for the past eight years. With a growth investment mindset, Anndy strategically demonstrates this in the companies he chooses to be involved with. He believes that what he is doing through blockchain technology currently will revolutionise and redefine traditional businesses. He also believes that the blockchain industry has to be “redecentralised”.

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