Blockchain

Despite controversy surrounding Ripple’s digital token, one bank is pushing forward to use it in cross-border payments.

Its early days yet, but decentralized apps will democratize finance, says Andrew Keys, cofounder of ConsenSys Capital, the financial services arm of ConsenSys.

A digital exchange opening next week will enable investors to trade in companies including Apple Inc., Facebook Inc. and Tesla Inc. outside of the U.S. even when the stock markets are closed.

The industry has largely avoided added federal oversight after the Equifax hack; the product has created a “financial albatross” as consumers game the system.

Blockchain technology will allow players to purchase items or games faster, while ensuring their payments are secure, according to Nicolas Gilot, co-CEO of Ultra.

The National Bank of Kuwait is leveraging Ripple’s blockchain technology for a new cross-border payments service.

The year saw anxiety over how banks would respond to record consumer debt, disruptive glitches at TD Bank and SunTrust, ongoing scandal at Wells Fargo, and much, much more.

Even the best technologies take time, making it necessary to rein in expectations about what will happen and won't happen in the coming year.

More traditional players interested in creating a safer market for digital assets have issued a checklist that cryptocurrency firms can follow to build confidence among banks, consumers and regulators.

Even the best technologies take time, making it necessary to rein in expectations about what will happen and won't happen in the coming year.