The Stream

Beyond Bitcoin: Could blockchain change the world?

In the latest of our shows from SXSW, we ask if blockchain technologies could transform major industries besides banking.

Bitcoin and blockchain – two words you may be hearing a lot of these days. But how do the two work together and why do some enthusiasts think their technology will radically change the world?

Blockchain is the underlying technology that facilitates the secure exchange of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. Blockchain’s transparent network of transactions and has been touted as the next “Internet 2.0” with the power to potentially end corruptionfight global warming, prevent election fraud, lower healthcare costs and decentralise business sectors beyond banking and finance.

What are the pros and cons of blockchain technology? We’ll look at some of the ways entrepreneurs want to leverage it. Join the conversation on Wednesday at 1930GMT.

This discussion is part of a week of shows from the SXSW Conference and Festivals in Austin, Texas.

On this episode of The Stream, we speak with:

Katherine Foster @foster_change
Executive Director, Blockchain Labs for Open Collaboration  
un-bloc.com

Karen Ottoni @KarenOttoni
Organizer, Women in Blockchain

Tricia Martinez @TriciaTita
Founder and CEO, Wala
getwala.com

Neha Narula @neha
Director, Digital Currency Initiative
dci.mit.edu

Read more:

Can blockchain technology help poor people around the world? – The Conversation
Women are powering the blockchain – Quartz

What do you think? Leave your thoughts in the comments section below.