Blockchain Innovation Center Opens in Washington, DC

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Blockchain Innovation Center Opens in
Washington, DC

Washington, DC – September 27, 2016 — The Chamber of Digital Commerce and technology incubator 1776 have partnered to launch the DC Blockchain Center to serve as Washington, DC’s entrepreneurial resource for technology providers and governments investing and innovating in blockchain-based technologies.

The DC Blockchain Center at 1776 is the first blockchain incubator in Washington, DC. It’s focused on helping regulators and government agencies, including state, federal and international, understand the potential benefits of blockchain technology and public sector use cases, and to provide a forum for the public and private sectors to collaborate.

“We strongly believe that one of the most effective forms of advocacy is for the government to utilize and implement blockchain technology, and to experience the benefits first hand,” says Perianne Boring, Founder and President of the Chamber of Digital Commerce.

The DC Blockchain Center has already received requests from government agencies looking for blockchain technology resources, and anticipates further inquiries around issues like cybersecurity, identity management and asset registry.

“FinTech is a challenging space for governments and their constituents,” said Evan Burnfield, Co-Founder & Co-CEO of 1776. “We’re thrilled to welcome the DC Blockchain Center and its community of innovators to 1776. It’s uniquely positioned to connect the dots for government agencies and drive massive scale success through our connections, resources and mentoring programs.”

This incubator is one of many efforts being undertaken at 1776 to foster innovation around financial technology.

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About the Chamber of Digital Commerce
The Chamber of Digital Commerce is the world’s leading trade association dedicated to promoting the understanding, acceptance and use of digital assets and blockchain-based technologies. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the Chamber is the founder of the Smart Contracts Alliance, the Blockchain Alliance, the Global Blockchain Forum and many other key industry initiatives. For more information, please visit DigitalChamber.org or follow us on Twitter: @ChamberDigital.

About 1776
1776 is a public benefit corporation that scouts and funds high-growth startups around the world focused on solving society’s most fundamental challenges in sectors like education, energy, transportation and financial services. Launched by co-CEOs Donna Harris and Evan Burfield and headquartered in Washington, D.C., with additional campuses in Dubai and San Francisco, 1776 serves
hundreds of startups and institutions worldwide through its innovation curriculum, mentorship, investment and programming. It hosts more than 500 international events per year that attract heads of state, Fortune 500 CEOs, influential investors and global press. For more information, please visit www.1776.vc and follow @1776 on Twitter and @1776vc on Instagram.

Chamber Media Contact:
Patrick Sutton
Paragon Public Relations
patrick@paragonpr.co
+1.646.558.6226

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Cognizant Joins Chamber of Digital Commerce

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Cognizant Joins Chamber of Digital Commerce

Global Consulting, Technology and Business Services Leader to Participate in Blockchain Trade Group

Washington, D.C., September 8, 2016 — Cognizant (NASDAQ: CTSH), a leading provider of information technology, consulting, and business process services, has joined the Executive Committee of the Chamber of Digital Commerce. The Chamber is the world’s leading trade association representing the blockchain industry and works closely with policymakers, regulators and industry to develop a pro-growth legal environment that fosters innovation, jobs and investment.

Cognizant is engaged in an array of initiatives to test the potential of blockchain; including the creation of accelerators that design, prototype and test solutions for digital asset issuance and transfer, secure document exchange, digital identity, and many others. Earlier this year, Cognizant announced its work with Mizuho Financial Group to develop a blockchain solution for secure record keeping of documents across the Group’s global companies.

“Blockchain technology is poised to change the face of the banking and financial services industry, providing the opportunity to create new digital business models, streamline business processes, and modernize existing IT systems,” said Prasad Chintamaneni, President, Global Industries and Consulting at Cognizant. “Cognizant was one of the early movers in the blockchain space and we continue to significantly invest in our capabilities to develop enterprise-ready solutions to help clients navigate this shift and become digital enterprises. We’re excited to be working with the Chamber of Digital Commerce to further the adoption and progression of blockchain technology and accelerate its implementation across industries.”

“Cognizant is yet another example of an established industry leader realizing the transformative potential of blockchain technology, and the importance of collaboration,” said Perianne Boring, Founder and President of the Chamber. “For blockchain to reach its maximum potential leaders across every industry will need to contribute to the policy efforts to help shape the future of this new and transformative technology.”

The Chamber of Digital Commerce represents the world’s leading innovators, operators and investors in the digital asset and blockchain technology ecosystem, including start-ups, software companies, global IT consultancies, financial institutions and investment firms. Membership is open to all those committed to supporting and growing this thriving community.

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About the Chamber of Digital Commerce
The Chamber of Digital Commerce is the world’s leading trade association dedicated to promoting the understanding, acceptance and use of digital assets and blockchain-based technologies. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the Chamber is the founder of the Smart Contracts Alliance, the Blockchain Alliance, the Global Blockchain Forum and many other key industry initiatives. For more information, please visit DigitalChamber.org or follow us on Twitter: @ChamberDigital.

About Cognizant
Cognizant (NASDAQ: CTSH) is a leading provider of information technology, consulting, and business process services, dedicated to helping the world’s leading companies build stronger businesses. Headquartered in Teaneck, New Jersey (U.S.), Cognizant combines a passion for client satisfaction, technology innovation, deep industry and business process expertise, and a global, collaborative workforce that embodies the future of work. With over 100 development and delivery centers worldwide and approximately 244,300 employees as of June 30, 2016, Cognizant is a member of the NASDAQ-100, the S&P 500, the Forbes Global 2000, and the Fortune 500 and is ranked among the top performing and fastest growing companies in the world. Visit us online at https://www.cognizant.com or follow us on Twitter: Cognizant.

Chamber Media Contact:
Patrick Sutton
Paragon Public Relations
Patrick@paragonpr.com
+1.646.558.6226

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Chamber Submits Industry Comments to European Securities and Markets Authority

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Chamber Submits Industry Comments to European Securities and Markets Authority

Washington, D.C. September 2, 2016 –The Chamber of Digital Commerce has submitted comments to the European Securities and Markets Authority (“ESMA”), in response to its discussion paper titled “The Distributed Ledger Technology Applied to Securities Markets,” in which it asks market participants various questions regarding distributed ledger technology (“DLT”) in the securities markets.

ESMA is an independent European authority that was established to protect investors and promote stable and orderly financial markets. ESMA is developing EU-wide Technical Standards that will become the framework for any anticipated regulations.

Given the impact regulation applied to DLT in the EU will have on the development of DLT at a global level, the Chamber submitted comprehensive comments to ESMA. Over a dozen Chamber member companies provided input and interviews for the Chamber’s comments, which were prepared with guidance from Kari Larsen, counsel at Reed Smith LLP.

“Blockchain technology has the potential to significantly improve many business processes within the global securities market,” said Perianne Boring, Founder and President of the Chamber of Digital Commerce. “Regulators should not be too quick to act individually to respond with prescriptive legislation that could stifle innovation.”

Instead the Chamber urges ESMA to coordinate efforts with other regulators to understand the new technology, and develop international standards and best practices as the technology matures. With global standards in place, national regulators will have a basis to develop local legislation and legal treatment.

The Chamber also raised industry-wide concerns about the EU’s data privacy regulations. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)’s “right of access” and the “right to be forgotten,” for example, may impact the deployment of permission-less DLT networks. Regulatory flexibility that enables differing methods of compliance will be critical for the uptake of blockchain technology in the EU.

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About the Chamber of Digital Commerce

The Chamber of Digital Commerce is the world’s leading trade association dedicated to promoting the understanding, acceptance and use of digital assets and blockchain-based technologies. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the Chamber is the founder of the Smart Contracts Alliance, the Blockchain Alliance, the Global Blockchain Forum and many other key industry initiatives. For more information, please visit DigitalChamber.org or follow us on Twitter: @ChamberDigital.

Chamber Media Contact:
Erin Tye
Paragon Public Relations
Erin@paragonpr.com
+1.646.558.6226

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Chamber of Digital Commerce Launches Smart Contracts Alliance

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Chamber of Digital Commerce Launches Smart Contracts Alliance

Establishes consortium of leaders in technology, legal and financial services to accelerate the understanding and adoption of smart contracts

Washington, D.C. (July 28, 2016) — The Chamber of Digital Commerce has launched the Smart Contracts Alliance (SCA), an industry initiative of leaders in the smart contracts ecosystem to promote the real-world application of this vital technology. Smart contracts have the potential to deliver greater efficiency, transparency and automation across industries. The SCA’s mandate is to educate and enhance the understanding and adoption of smart contracts, provide a forum to develop industry standards and help shape a pro-growth policy framework.

Co-chaired by Mark Smith, CEO of Symbiont, and Sean Murphy, Partner at Norton Rose Fulbright, the SCA comprises thought leaders and innovators from the technology, legal, and financial industries. The founding participants include: Bitfinex, Blake, Cassles & Graydon, Bloq, Cognizant, ConsenSys, Deloitte, The Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation, Eris Industries, Georgetown University’s Center for Financial Markets and Policy, Gem, IBM, Microsoft, Norton Rose Fulbright, Perkins Coie, Pillsbury Law, String Labs, Symbiont, Tether, t0.com and Wipfli.

“As a pioneer of smart contract technology, Symbiont’s end goal has always been realworld implementation,” said Mark Smith, Technology Chair of the Smart Contracts Alliance. “This initiative will be key in bridging the gap between concept and reality, and making smart contracts accessible across the board.”

“With real-world applications of any major advance in technology like smart contracts, regulation and policy play a pivotal role,” said Sean Murphy, Legal Chair of the Smart Contracts Alliance. “I’m excited to bring Norton Rose Fulbright’s experience in distributed ledger technology to the Smart Contracts Alliance, and help foster the right legal environment for smart contacts to flourish.”

“Smart contracts have the potential to change the landscape of modern business,” said Perianne Boring, Founder & President of the Chamber of Digital Commerce. “The Smart Contracts Alliance is another facet in the Chamber’s growing repertoire of industry initiatives to accelerate the growth of blockchain technology.”

The SCA’s first event, focusing on policy implications and the legal and regulatory challenges of smart contracts going forward, will take place in fall 2016.

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About the Chamber of Digital Commerce

The Chamber of Digital Commerce is the world’s leading trade association dedicated to promoting the understanding, acceptance and use of digital assets and blockchain-based technologies. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the Chamber is the founder of the Smart Contracts Alliance, the Blockchain Alliance, the Global Blockchain Forum and many other key industry initiatives. For more information, please visit DigitalChamber.org or follow us on Twitter: @ChamberDigital.

Chamber Media Contact:
Erin Tye
Paragon Public Relations
Erin@paragonpr.com
+1.646.558.6226

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North Carolina Leaps Forward with Blockchain-friendly Bill

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North Carolina Leaps Forward with Blockchain-friendly Bill

State, Chamber of Digital Commerce Makes History with
Comprehensive Money Transmitter Act

Raleigh, N.C., Thursday, July 7, 2016 – Governor Pat McCrory has signed House Bill 289 into law, marking a historical moment for States’ regulation of blockchain technology and virtual currencies. The ratification of the bill, also known as the North Carolina Money Transmitter Act, comes after 16 months of deliberations between the North Carolina Commissioner of Banks, the General Assembly and the Chamber of Digital Commerce.

The Act updates the state’s existing laws to include a defined “virtual currency” term, and clarification as to which activity using virtual currency triggers licensure under the Act. This will ensure that virtual currency miners and blockchain software providers including smart contracts platforms, colored coins, smart property, multi-signature software, and non-hosted, non-custodial wallets will not require a license.

“Decentralized cryptocurrencies represent a significant development in financial services, but, because of the uniqueness of the technology powering them, also pose challenges to regulators, lawmakers and law enforcement officials evaluating how to integrate them into the existing legal fabric,” says Dax Hansen, Partner at Perkins Coie LLP and Chair of the Chamber’s State Working Group.  “North Carolina should be commended for investing the requisite time to understand decentralized cryptocurrencies and thoughtfully address them in the updated Money Transmission Act.”

The result is a more business-friendly approach that invites companies seeking to use virtual currencies or the underlying technologies, like blockchains or distributed ledgers, to bring their businesses to North Carolina. This starkly contrasts New York’s separate licensing regime, and provides a firm direction and sensible alternative for other states exploring the best approach to regulation.

“It’s been a long journey, however the benefits for both business and consumers in North Carolina won’t take nearly as long to surface,” said Perianne Boring, Founder and President of the Chamber of Digital Commerce. “North Carolina anticipated key issues, and developed a reasonable solution to address each concern. This has paved the way for other states to realize and embrace the incredible potential of these technologies.”

The Chamber is working in collaboration with several other states, the Uniform Law Commission and the Conference of State Supervisors as they develop their own approaches to virtual currencies and blockchain technology.

“North Carolina’s updated Money Transmission Act is important to the industry because it underscores that state’s commitment to understanding emerging technology and implementing thoughtful activity-based regulation of certain business models using such technologies,” said Carla L. Reyes, a Bruce R. Jacobs Visiting Assistant Professor of Law at Stetson University College of Law.  “Such careful consideration of the issues and the technology by regulators and legislatures is important for protecting the dual public policy interests of industry innovation and consumer protection.”

North Carolina’s MTA was a keystone initiative of the Chamber’s State Working Group, which is comprised of over 20 member companies and six leading law firms.

The Chamber would like to thank the significant contributions of Joseph Cutler of Perkins Coie, Dax Hansen of Perkins Coie (chair of the State Working Group), Amy Kim of Buckley Sandler, Arika Pierce of Gide, Carla Reyes of Stetson University College of Law and Dan Spuller of Cryptolina.

“We applaud the North Carolina Commissioner of Banks for their thoughtful engagement and approach towards making this bill a reality,” said Perianne Boring.

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About the Chamber of Digital Commerce

The Chamber of Digital Commerce is the world’s leading trade association dedicated to promoting the understanding, acceptance and use of digital assets and blockchain-based technologies. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the Chamber is the founder of the Smart Contracts Alliance, the Blockchain Alliance, the Global Blockchain Forum and many other key industry initiatives. For more information, please visit DigitalChamber.org or follow us on Twitter: @ChamberDigital.

Chamber Media Contact:
Patrick Sutton
Paragon Public Relations
Patrick@paragonpr.com
+1.646.558.6226

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Chamber of Digital Commerce Names DTCC’s Mark Wetjen to Board of Advisors

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Chamber of Digital Commerce Names DTCC’s Mark Wetjen to Board of Advisors

Market Infrastructure Technology Provider Also Joins Chamber’s Executive Committee

Washington, D.C., June 29, 2016 — Today the Chamber of Digital Commerce (“Chamber”) announces the appointment of Mark Wetjen of The Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation (“DTCC”) to its Board of Advisors. In addition, DTCC has joined the Chamber’s Executive Committee. Mr. Wetjen currently serves as the Head of Global Public Policy at the DTCC, the world’s leading post-trade market infrastructure for the global financial services industry, processing nearly $1.5 quadrillion worth of securities transactions in 2015. Prior to DTCC, Mr. Wetjen served as Commissioner at the U.S. Commodity and Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).

“New technologies are creating tremendous opportunities to connect economies around the world, make markets safer and more efficient and deliver services to consumers in novel ways. In particular, distributed ledger technology offers the industry a unique opportunity to drive targeted improvements to the financial market infrastructures that underpin the global capital market,” said Mark Wetjen. “I am pleased to join the Chamber and look forward to collaborating with the industry around fintech and blockchain strategies, which will be important to any future re-architecting of the posttrade environment.”

DTCC has a focused blockchain strategy to ensure the firm capitalizes on distributed ledger opportunities in a measured, appropriate, safe and secure manner. DTCC has made significant advancements with a number of internal business use cases and is currently working on several proof of concepts with the industry, including initiatives related to repurchase agreements (repos) and credit default swaps (CDS).

“We are excited to have Mark bring his vast experience and knowledge of financial markets and technology to our association and the Board of Advisors. Mark and the Board will help to shape the next chapter of financial services technology,” said Perianne Boring, Founder and President of the Chamber.

The Chamber represents the world’s leading innovators, operators and investors in the digital asset and blockchain technology ecosystem, including start-ups, software companies, global IT consultancies, financial institutions and investment firms. Membership is open to all those committed to supporting and growing this thriving community.

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About the Chamber of Digital Commerce

The Chamber of Digital Commerce is the world’s leading trade association dedicated to promoting the understanding, acceptance and use of digital assets and blockchain-based technologies. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the Chamber is the founder of the Smart Contracts Alliance, the Blockchain Alliance, the Global Blockchain Forum and many other key industry initiatives. For more information, please visit DigitalChamber.org or follow us on Twitter: @ChamberDigital.

Chamber Media Contact:
Erin Tye
Paragon Public Relations
Erin@paragonpr.com
+1.646.558.6226

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Chamber of Digital Commerce Presents at North Carolina Senate

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Chamber of Digital Commerce Presents at North Carolina Senate

Raleigh, N.C., Thursday, June 16, 2016 – The North Carolina Senate Finance Committee met this Tuesday to consider a proposed bill that would, among other things, clarify the state’s regulation of virtual currency and distributed ledger-related businesses. As part of the Committee Meeting, the Chamber of Digital Commerce and law firm Perkins Coie presented on blockchain technology.

The North Carolina Money Transmitter Act would update the state’s existing Act in a number of important ways, including the addition of a defined “virtual currency” term, and clarification as to which activity using virtual currency triggers licensure under the Act.

While current North Carolina law can clearly be read to cover certain virtual currency-related business models, its language remains ambiguous – particularly for companies using the underlying technology for applications other than payments. The Act would not only clarify the licensure requirement as to a variety of virtual currency-related business models, but it would also make important distinctions between companies using virtual currency (like bitcoin), and ones that use the underlying software technology (like blockchains or distributed ledgers).

This Act provides clarity to the entire industry by defining what types of companies innovating with blockchain technology need to be licensed and regulated as money transmitters. It also updates the law to include an important agent of the payee exception, which would be available to all potentially regulated entities, whether the business model is virtual currency-related or not. The Act is a more comprehensive and business-friendly approach to regulating virtual currency on the state level, and starkly contrasts New York’s separate licensing regime.

The Act was first introduced in March of last year at the request of the Commissioner of Banks, and was resoundingly passed by the North Carolina House of Representatives in May by a vote of 117-1.

“The state-by-state money transmitters licensing regime is a costly, onerous and labor-intensive path for any company to take,” said Perianne Boring, Founder and President of the Chamber of Digital Commerce. “The passage of this Act into law is good for business, jobs and innovation in North Carolina. We urge Senate leadership to take the next steps to bring it to the floor for a vote.”

“The North Carolina Money Transmission Act represents a thoughtful approach to virtual currency regulation that reflects prior work by the Conference of State Bank Supervisors and the on-going efforts of the Uniform Law Commission,” said Carla Reyes, Associate at Perkins Coie LLP and incoming law faculty at Stetson University College of Law.  “The importance of clarity provided through legislative action for members of the industry cannot be overstated, and the Act offers both that clarity and other important updates to North Carolina money transmission law.”

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About the Chamber of Digital Commerce

The Chamber of Digital Commerce is the world’s leading trade association dedicated to promoting the understanding, acceptance and use of digital assets and blockchain-based technologies. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the Chamber is the founder of the Smart Contracts Alliance, the Blockchain Alliance, the Global Blockchain Forum and many other key industry initiatives. For more information, please visit DigitalChamber.org or follow us on Twitter: @ChamberDigital.

Chamber Media Contact:
Erin Tye
Paragon Public Relations
Erin@paragonpr.com
+1.646.558.6226

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Chamber of Digital Commerce Gathers at Federal Reserve Annual Meeting to Discuss Blockchain Technology

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Chamber of Digital Commerce Gathers at Federal Reserve Annual Meeting to Discuss Blockchain Technology

Chain, Bloq, Goldman Sachs and NASDAQ Share Their Thoughts With the Federal Reserve, World Bank and IMF

WASHINGTON, DC–(Marketwired – Jun 6, 2016) – The Chamber of Digital Commerce, the world’s largest trade association representing the blockchain industry, helped facilitate discussions at an event hosted by the Federal Reserve, World Bank, and IMF in Washington, DC on June 1 through 3, 2016. Central banks from over 90 countries participated at the event titled “Finance in Flux: The Technological Transformation of the Financial Sector.” The theme of this year’s conference was on blockchain and FinTech.

In her remarks, the Chair of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, Janet Yellen, addressed heightened concerns about cybersecurity. She also said that it’s undeniable that the global financial system has benefited from FinTech and encouraged central banks to do all they can to learn about financial innovations including bitcoin, blockchain and distributed ledger technologies.

Adam Ludwin, CEO of Chain, delivered the keynote address in the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System’s Board Room. “Blockchain technology will provide central bankers, regulators and policy makers with new tools to enhance the safety, soundness and capabilities of the financial markets and payments systems globally. As participants on industry blockchain networks, regulators will gain real-time transparency to measure systemic leverage and monitor compliance. And as potential operators of networks for issuing central bank digital currencies, policy makers have the opportunity to forge a payments system that will enhance security, reduce settlement times and create new possibilities for monetary policy,” said Ludwin.

Jeff Garzik, CEO of Bloq and Bitcoin Core Developer, outlined the innovative elements of blockchain technology, including trust shifting, decentralization, cryptography, immutability and others. “Some of the greatest potential benefits of blockchain technology are going to be first seen and actively leveraged in emerging nations,” said Garzik.

Perianne Boring, Founder and President of the Chamber of Digital Commerce, encouraged the Federal Reserve and central banks to focus on and embrace innovation in blockchain and distributed ledger technology. “We believe blockchain technologies are capable of providing the Fed and other regulators with next generation tools to fulfill their mission of monitoring the safety and soundness of the financial system more effectively,” said Boring.

The conversations with senior level directors of central banks from around the world were very encouraging and indicated a high level of interest in blockchain technology.

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About the Chamber of Digital Commerce

The Chamber of Digital Commerce is the world’s leading trade association dedicated to promoting the understanding, acceptance and use of digital assets and blockchain-based technologies. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the Chamber is the founder of the Smart Contracts Alliance, the Blockchain Alliance, the Global Blockchain Forum and many other key industry initiatives. For more information, please visit DigitalChamber.org or follow us on Twitter: @ChamberDigital.

Chamber Media Contact:
Erika Zapanta
erika@transform.pr

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Finance and Tech Leaders Hold DC Blockchain Roundtable on Capitol Hill

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Finance and Tech Leaders Hold DC Blockchain Roundtable on Capitol Hill

Members of Congress, regulatory agencies, and industry pioneers educate, collaborate and explore the potential of blockchain technology

Washington, D.C. – May 26, 2016 – The Chamber of Digital Commerce hosted today a roundtable on Capitol Hill between Members of Congress, regulatory agencies and blockchain technology industry pioneers and leaders.

“There is a constellation of key stakeholders in Washington, DC that can impact and influence the direction and adoption of blockchain technology – from regulatory agencies, law enforcement, intelligence, Congress and many others,” said Perianne Boring, Founder and President of the Chamber of Digital Commerce. “Coordinating the various efforts is imperative to enable a policy framework that is both effective, yet interoperable – and most importantly does not stifle investment, jobs or innovation.”

The DC Blockchain Roundtable included participation from some of the world’s largest technology, financial services and blockchain companies, including Bittrex, Bloq, CME Group, ConsenSys, Deloitte, DTCC, and Microsoft.

“Education and engagement with policy makers about this transformative technology is mission critical for the future development and adoption of blockchain-enabled technologies,” said Matthew Roszak, co-founder and chairman of Bloq, an enterprise blockchain software company.

“Distributed ledger technology offers an opportunity to re-think and improve current inefficient processes within the trade lifecycle. DTCC looks forward to helping to lead discussions on this important topic, in collaboration with market participants and policymakers, as this new technology quickly evolves,” said Mark Wetjen, DTCC Managing Director and Head of Global Public Policy.

Topics covered included general educational information about blockchain technology, solutions blockchain technology can bring to the financial services industry, blockchain applications relevant to policymakers and the public sector, and law enforcement concerns and implications.

“Blockchain technology has been, and I believe will continue to be, a positive market disrupter. It has the potential to revolutionize clearing and settling, and I’m interested to see how private sector financial institutions will adopt and use it. I look forward to monitoring and supporting the continued development of this technology and industry,” said Rep. Mick Mulvaney.

“The opportunities and efficiencies that come from distributive ledger technology are just now becoming understood. My job is to educate fellow members of Congress on what this means for future economic growth,” said Rep. David Schweikert.

This roundtable is part of a series of DC Blockchain Roundtables that the Chamber has originated and sponsored for the benefit of the DC policymaking community.

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About the Chamber of Digital Commerce

The Chamber of Digital Commerce is the world’s leading trade association dedicated to promoting the understanding, acceptance and use of digital assets and blockchain-based technologies. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the Chamber is the founder of the Smart Contracts Alliance, the Blockchain Alliance, the Global Blockchain Forum and many other key industry initiatives. For more information, please visit DigitalChamber.org or follow us on Twitter: @ChamberDigital.

Chamber Media Contact:
Erika Zapanta
cdc@transform.pr
(202) 302-6064

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Blockchain Technology and Finance Powerhouses Join Forces in DC Microsoft, USAA, Bloq & Symbiont Announce Executive Membership in the Chamber of Digital Commerce

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Blockchain Technology and Finance Powerhouses Join Forces in DC Microsoft, USAA, Bloq & Symbiont Announce Executive Membership in the Chamber of Digital Commerce

Microsoft, USAA, Bloq & Symbiont Announce Executive Membership in the Chamber of Digital Commerce

WASHINGTON, DC–(Marketwired – May 2, 2016) – The Chamber of Digital Commerce has added leading blockchain technology and financial services companies into the Chamber’s Executive Committee membership — expanding the Chamber’s expertise into financial services, smart contracts and enterprise software.

As blockchain and distributed ledger technologies are reimagining finance and global commerce, concerted efforts in education and advocacy towards lawmakers are necessary for continued growth and innovation.

Marley Gray, Director BizDev & Strategy for Blockchain at Microsoft, said, “Microsoft is thrilled to join the Chamber of Digital Commerce. We firmly believe industry collaborations are critical to bringing distributed ledger technology to market. The work of the Chamber will advance distributed ledger technology in a thoughtful, pragmatic way.”

Matthew Roszak, Co-Founder and Chairman, Bloq, said, “Through my experience in working in technology and finance, engagement with public policymakers is critical for industry growth and success. Bloq is leading the industry’s efforts in enterprise grade blockchain software and we’re proud to be an Executive Committee member of the Chamber of Digital Commerce and help shape the policy dialogue in Washington, DC.”

Mark Smith, Co-Founder and CEO, Symbiont, said, “The Chamber of Digital Commerce will play an important role in maximizing the benefits of distributed ledger and smart contract technologies and their transformative possibilities. Without accomplished advocates for forward-looking policy, they will always be limited.”

Perianne Boring, Founder and President, Chamber of Digital Commerce, said, “Market leading companies continue to enter the blockchain ecosystem at an unprecedented pace — further underlining the importance and potential of this transformative technology — and they quickly realize that education and advocacy efforts are mission-critical to the success of this industry’s future. We welcome Microsoft, USAA, Bloq and Symbiont, and their innovative teams to the Chamber of Digital Commerce and look forward to driving blockchain and distributed ledger technology forward in DC, and beyond.”

The Chamber of Digital Commerce represents the world’s leading innovators, operators and investors in the digital asset and blockchain technology ecosystem, including start-ups, software companies, global IT consultancies, financial institutions and investment firms. Membership is open to all those committed to supporting and expanding this thriving community.

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About the Chamber of Digital Commerce

The Chamber of Digital Commerce is the world’s leading trade association dedicated to promoting the understanding, acceptance and use of digital assets and blockchain-based technologies. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the Chamber is the founder of the Smart Contracts Alliance, the Blockchain Alliance, the Global Blockchain Forum and many other key industry initiatives. For more information, please visit DigitalChamber.org or follow us on Twitter: @ChamberDigital.

Chamber Media Contact:
Erin Tye
Paragon Public Relations
Erin@paragonpr.com
+1.646.558.6226

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