Could digital currencies put banks out of business?

Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin have been billed as a major disruptor to finance. But digital currencies issued by governments might be even more radical—they may even threaten the future of traditional banking.

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Why central banks want to launch digital currencies

Interest in bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies may be surging, but central banks don’t want to be left behind by financial innovation. In fact, more than 80% are examining how to launch digital versions of their own currencies. CNBC’s Joumanna Bercetche takes a look at why these cautious institutions may soon be launching a revolution in how we think about money.

Is Google Pay Safe? What to Need to Know About This Payment App

Google Pay offers speed and convenience, but before you sign up, find out just how secure this contactless payment app really is.

The Google-verse, like the natural universe, is ever expanding. Not only can you use Google products to search for information, get directions, and manage your email and photos, but you can also now pay for almost anything (as long as it’s legal) using a mobile app called Google Pay. 

Google Pay is aimed primarily at Android phone users, but it’s available for iPhones and iPads, too. But is Google Pay safe and what exactly is a digital wallet? 

Find out all you need to know HERE.

Why CBDC's may not be such a good idea

Samson Williams sets out 3 reasons why CBDC (Central Bank Digital Currency) may not be such a good idea.

• 96% of current currency is already digital.
• Digital Currencies, as conceptualized under CBDC would be programmable and “programmable” money is a problem.
• Cash is King.   

Read the full article HERE. 

Fintechs focus on cross-border business payments

Nonbank fintechs are gaining ground, mainly with small company customers, but target larger ones for cross-border business, even as competition gives way to symbiotic 'coopetition' with larger banks.

Consumers move funds to their friends through Venmo and Zelle with relative ease and low costs, but cross-border payments — particularly for businesses — are significantly more costly. 

Fintechs are attacking cross-border business payments as banks and legacy players join the rush to innovate

Read more HERE. 

 

Is AI a race to be won?

"The artificial intelligence race grabs headlines and the narrative seldom varies: On the world stage, it’s U.S. innovation versus China’s speed. In business, senior leadership at all sorts of organizations are romanced by the prospect of winning the AI race. Some believe it’s just a matter of greater investment and a policy change or two.

This begs the question: Is AI a race to be won?"

So writes Arun Shastri in in FORBES. Arun is a leader of ZS’s analytics practice and works with clients across industries. His focus is on AI: experimentation, scaling, adoption and ethics.

Read his full article HERE.

 

Phone Call Scams—And How to Protect Yourself

Scammers are sneakier than you'd think, but you need to protect your money and information. Here are 12 common scams - what they are and how to protect yourself.

Read the full article HERE.