Blockchain
Bahrain attracts US$72.7 million worth of investment in financial services
Bahrain’s investment promotion agency, the Bahrain Economic Development Board (Bahrain EDB), announced its participation in the Singapore Fintech Festival (2-4 November) with the aim to support fintech and financial services companies tap into MENA market through Bahrain.
During the first three quarters of 2022, Bahrain EDB has supported nine financial services companies to setup or expand in Bahrain, generating US$72.7 million (BHD27.5 million) in direct investments. The financial services investments are expected to generate over 840 jobs over the next three years.
Financial services companies attracted by Bahrain EDB include the leading global blockchain services provider Binance, locally grown open Banking company Spier Technologies, and new regional headquarters for Gulf Insurance Group (GIG).
Dalal Buhejji, Executive Director – Business Development for Financial Services at Bahrain EDB, said: “We are delighted to see more and more investors entering Bahrain’s financial services sector, benefiting from a strong and agile ecosystem led by a forward-thinking regulatory body. Financial services is a priority sector for us to grow investments and create jobs, in line with the objectives set out in Bahrain’s Economic Recovery Plan.”
Overall, Bahrain EDB attracted USD921 million (BHD348 million) in direct investment from 66 companies during the first nine months of the year. The investments are expected to generate over 4,700 jobs over the next three years in key sectors, including financial services, ICT, logistics, manufacturing, and tourism.
Bahrain’s financial services sector is the most significant contributor to the Kingdom’s GDP after oil and is the oldest and most established in the region. Today the sector accounts for over 17% of Bahrain’s GDP and employs over 13,600, with Bahrainis representing almost 70%.
Through the Economic Recovery Plan, Bahrain aims to grow the financial services sector’s contribution to GDP to 20% by 2026. The financial services sector development strategy focuses on five main priorities: creating job opportunities, developing capital markets, strengthening legislation and regulatory policies, growing the insurance sector, and developing financial services and fintech.
Find out more about Bahrain’s investment opportunities in financial services and fintech by visiting the Bahrain EDB team at the Singapore Fintech Festival – International Hall 5, Stand # 5J23.
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Blockchain
Blocks & Headlines: Today in Blockchain (BlackRock, Plume, SEALSQ, Hedera, Deutsche Bank, KuCoin)
Blockchain technology continues to drive innovation across industries, reshaping finance, infrastructure, and philanthropy. Today’s news roundup explores exciting developments in blockchain ETFs, tokenization funding, quantum-resistant chips, public blockchain initiatives, and impactful social projects. Here’s a deep dive into the latest blockchain headlines:
BlackRock ETF Embraces Blockchain with First Muni Bond Purchase
BlackRock’s blockchain-focused ETF has made its first foray into municipal bonds, signaling increased confidence in integrating blockchain technology with traditional finance. The ETF’s strategic investment demonstrates how blockchain can enhance transparency and efficiency in bond markets.
By tokenizing municipal bonds, BlackRock aims to simplify trading and settlement processes while reducing associated costs. This development underscores the growing role of blockchain in transforming financial instruments and fostering greater market accessibility.
Source: Yahoo Finance
Plume Secures Funding for Tokenization Platform
Blockchain fintech company Plume has raised significant funding to advance its tokenization platform. The company’s innovative approach enables businesses to convert real-world assets into digital tokens, streamlining asset management and unlocking liquidity.
Tokenization is rapidly gaining traction as a game-changer in sectors such as real estate, art, and commodities. Plume’s success reflects a broader trend of investment in blockchain solutions that bridge the gap between traditional assets and decentralized technologies.
Source: Fortune
SEALSQ and Hedera Partner for Quantum-Resistant Blockchain Chips
SEALSQ and Hedera have announced a groundbreaking collaboration to develop quantum-resistant chips designed to secure blockchain infrastructure. These advanced chips will provide robust protection against future quantum computing threats, ensuring the integrity of blockchain networks.
As quantum computing capabilities evolve, safeguarding blockchain ecosystems becomes increasingly critical. This partnership highlights the importance of proactive measures in maintaining the resilience and trustworthiness of decentralized systems.
Source: The Quantum Insider
Deutsche Bank’s Public, Permissioned Blockchain Initiative
Deutsche Bank’s Layer 2 blockchain solution is set to go public and operate as a permissioned network, according to its tech partner. This initiative aims to strike a balance between accessibility and security, leveraging blockchain to streamline financial services and enhance operational efficiency.
The decision to adopt a public, permissioned model reflects a growing trend among enterprises seeking to harness the benefits of decentralization while maintaining control over sensitive data. Deutsche Bank’s approach could serve as a blueprint for other financial institutions exploring blockchain adoption.
Source: CoinDesk
KuCoin’s “Light Up Africa” Initiative Brings Hope to Thousands
Cryptocurrency exchange KuCoin has made a significant impact through its “Light Up Africa” donation ceremony in Ghana, benefiting 36,000 children across the continent. The initiative combines blockchain technology with philanthropy to address energy poverty and support education.
By leveraging blockchain for transparency in charitable contributions, KuCoin sets an example of how the crypto industry can drive meaningful social change. The project demonstrates the potential of blockchain to empower communities and foster sustainable development.
Source: PR Newswire
Industry Implications and Key Takeaways
Today’s developments highlight the transformative potential of blockchain across multiple domains:
- Integration with Traditional Finance: BlackRock’s ETF underscores the synergy between blockchain and established financial systems.
- Tokenization Trends: Plume’s funding success reflects the growing demand for digital asset solutions.
- Quantum-Resistant Technologies: SEALSQ and Hedera’s partnership addresses emerging cybersecurity challenges.
- Enterprise Blockchain Adoption: Deutsche Bank’s public, permissioned network showcases the adaptability of blockchain in financial services.
- Social Impact: KuCoin’s philanthropic efforts illustrate blockchain’s capacity to drive positive societal outcomes.
The post Blocks & Headlines: Today in Blockchain (BlackRock, Plume, SEALSQ, Hedera, Deutsche Bank, KuCoin) appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.
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