Digital currencies, blockchain and crypto currencies explained at summer event

On Thursday 19th July, the Exeter Initiative for Science and Technology (ExIST) is hosting an event to discuss the evolution of digital currencies.

Robert McIlwraith, chairman of ExIST, said “The development of digital currencies presents opportunities and challenges, which businesses must meet. We are pleased to invite great speakers to help us examine this topic. I encourage anyone with a business focus in science and technology, as well as an interest in cryptocurrencies, to attend to the event.”

Speakers at the event, titled “Digital currencies, the good, the bad and the ugly” include; Julie Hawker, Joint Chief Executive of Cosmic, Steve Wang, Emerging Technology Graduate at RBS / Natwest, Andrew Oldland, Head of the Financial Services team and Head of the Regulatory team at Michelmores and Chris Empson, Financial Investigator in Serious & Organised Crime Branch at Devon & Cornwall Police.

ExIST is delighted to welcome Steve Wang who is working on emerging technology at RBS / Natwest to speak to the group. Steve will update on the development of Crypto Assets and what they mean for business and the individual.

Speaker, Steven Wang said; “On the 22nd May 2010, Laszlo Hanyecz bought two pizzas for 10,000 Bitcoins. If he had held onto those bitcoins, he would now have over £50 Million Pounds. During my presentation, I will talk about the phenomenon that is Bitcoin and the underlying ‘blockchain’ technology that has spawned new ways of funding business and exchanging value. I will also explain how this technology works by exploring the key technologies including Bitcoin, Ethereum and Corda and how it is revolutionising business as well as empowering individuals.”
Julie Hawker, Joint Chief Executive at Cosmic will open the event with an introduction to the topic, and talk about the wider context of cryptocurrencies as well as providing an overview of the technologies and how they are evolving.

Andrew Oldland, Head of the Financial Services team and Head of the Regulatory team at Michelmores will discuss the legal and regulatory implications of digital currencies for businesses.

The final speaker on cryptocurrencies is Chris Empson, Financial Investigator in Serious & Organised Crime Branch at Devon & Cornwall Police. Chris will provide a brief overview of the criminal threats posed by digital currencies and share examples of cases investigated.

The event will be taking place at Sandy Park Conference Centre at 8.30am – 10.30am, including breakfast.  To view the full programme of speakers and topics please visit www.existexeter.co.uk

To book your place at the event please call Exeter Chamber on 01392 431133. Tickets cost £15 per person, including VAT.