FinanceMalta and Blockchain Malta have joined forces to organise a second series of events focusing on the financial opportunities and applications of the emerging technologies pertaining to blockchain and cryptocurrency. The first event in the new series served as an introduction to how blockchain will affect different sectors in the financial services industry.

In order to encourage an open debate among practitioners, the BlockFinance sessions took place under the Chatham House Rule which helped fuel a lively debate during the event.

The discussion was led by the parliamentary secretary responsible for financial services, digital economy and innovation, Silvio Schembri, who spoke about the opportunities and threats that are  facing Malta in respect of the disruptive technology.

Blockchain will affect many different industry sectors

Mamo TCV sponsored the opening event with their fintech expert Roberta Peresso involved in the panel session alongside the minister, as well as Chris Buttigieg from MFSA who brought the audience up to date with the rapidly-evolving nature of the regulatory developments pertaining to DLT laws.

The seminar came to an end with another discussion panel comprising Ivo Camilleri from Bank of Valletta, Ian-Edward Stafrace from Atlas Insurance PCC Ltd, and Cliff Pace, head of marketing and corporate communications at the Malta Stock Exchange. The seminar was chaired by Patrick Young from the Blockchain Malta Association.

Other information sessions hosted by FinanceMalta are planned for September through to December 2018, while the University of Malta is going to start offering study credits about this new technology in the forthcoming academic year.

All BlockFinance sessions are being held at the Corinthia Palace Hotel, in Attard. Registrations can be made online via www.financemalta.org.