Digital money and gig economy (Part 2) - the gig economy, supported by platforms such Uber and Upwork, is transforming traditional work by emphasising short-term, flexible jobs. Digital money, particularly cryptocurrencies, is further reshaping this space by enabling fast, borderless payments and offering financial inclusion. However, challenges such as currency volatility and regulatory uncertainty persist. Yet, despite these hurdles, digital currencies have the potential to create a more efficient and inclusive global labour market within the evolving gig economy.
Demystifying non-liquidating accounts - the collapse of FTX has brought to light the critical risks associated with non-liquidating accounts which, despite their benefits, can pose significant threats to market stability if mismanaged. Whilst algorithmic stablecoins were a key factor, the overlooked impact of these accounts raises several pressing questions: How can crypto exchanges better manage the risks associated with non-liquidating accounts? What role should regulators play in ensuring transparency and accountability? Hence, understanding these elements is essential to prevent future crises and safeguard the long-term sustainability of the crypto industry.
Tokenised government bonds - tokenised government bonds are digital versions of traditional bonds issued on a blockchain, offering increased accessibility, liquidity and efficiency by enabling 24/7 trading with near-instant settlement times. They reduce the need for intermediaries whereby potentially lowering costs and democratising access to government debt markets. However, challenges such as regulatory uncertainty, technological infrastructure requirements and risks to financial stability must be addressed before they become mainstream. Tokenisation could significantly reshape financial markets, but its future depends on technological advances, regulatory developments and market adoption.
The nature and necessity of digital asset controls - digital assets are expected to reach up to $4 trillion in value in the next few years, therefore managing their security becomes crucial. Three key challenges are highlighted as a result: securing addresses, safeguarding private keys and understanding third-party entitlements (I.O.Us). The risks include potential fraud, inadequate insurance and reliance on custodians who may fail during financial crises. It is therefore vital for individuals and institutions to fully understand these risks, emphasising the importance of controlling one's own keys - ‘not your keys, not your assets’.
