The Complexities of Blockchain in Global Aid Efforts

This episode is sponsored by Quantstamp and Nexo.io. In theory, crypto and blockchain technology present unique opportunities to improve, accelerate and strengthen global aid efforts. In practice, geopolitical challenges and complexities in distribution hinder projects before they’ve even had a chance to deploy the new technology. Joining “Money Reimagined” hosts Michael Casey and Sheila Warren are Sara Pantuliano, chief executive of ODI and member of the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund, and Sasha Kapadia, director in the Humanitarian and Development group at Mastercard. The guests are intimately familiar with the processes and challenges associated with cross-border aid efforts, as well as the opportunities for blockchain integrated aid in the future. How can blockchain-based digital aid solutions improve the lives of those in crisis? Even if the technology could be helpful, is it ethical to test emergent technology on a vulnerable population? Blockchain technology is likely to be increasingly included in aid solutions in the next decade. Alongside the sweeping potential , it’s also important to maintain awareness of its dangers if communities are to avoid widening the “digital divide” that developing technologies can easily create. - Quantstamp is the leader of blockchain security, having secured over 100 billion USD worth of digital assets. Visit quantstamp.com to learn why top DeFi projects like Maker, Compound and BarnBridge trust Quantstamp to secure the financial infrastructure of tomorrow. Learn more at quantstamp.com/blog. - Nexo is a powerful, all-in-one crypto platform where you can securely store your crypto. Invest, borrow, exchange and earn up to 17% APR on Bitcoin and 20+ other top coins. Insured for $375M. Audited in real-time by Armanino. Rated excellent on Trustpilot. Get started today at nexo.io. - This episode was produced and edited by Michele Musso with announcements by Adam B. Levine and additional production support by Eleanor Pahl. Our theme song is “Shepard.” See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.