Blockchain is the new buzzword among bankers in the know. For those who are still new to the concept, this article will help explain how the technology works and how it is likely to impact the future of banking. Read on to find out more and learn, how a secure dataroom can be a useful technical basis for a Blockchain.

What is Blockchain?

A Blockchain is an unchangeable, secure, open ledger system. Unlike a conventional bank, everyone on the ledger is able to view the chain’s transactions across its entire lifespan. It is essentially a database that is copied and shared across all of its main users.

When using a Blockchain system, each monetary transaction is represented as one “block” online. This block is then shared using the web with all relevant parties via a closed network. Everyone in the network then approves the transaction, at which point the block is added to the chain and the money is transferred from point A to point B with less hassle.

Although it was initially created to record Bitcoin and other cryptocurrency transactions, the technology has begun to catch on in a variety of other contexts as well. It is moving in the right direction to become more widely adopted by mainstream society in the near future.

What are the Advantages?

Allowing all users access to the centralized database comes with a variety of advantages. The most obvious of these is that everyone has access to the exact same records, which removes the need for reconciliations. It also offers a long-term transparent record for future use.

Distributed ledger technologies can also significantly reduce the amount of time required to settle transactions. Once all of the system’s initial flaws are addressed, it will also add a good deal of security to transactions. As the technology develops, it could result in revolutionary new business models as well.

What are the Flaws?

Blockchain technology is still in its infancy. In order to be universally adopted, the technology will have to be perfect to remove any possibility of external editing.

What Does the Future Look Like?

It is very likely that banks and other financial firms will be the first entities to adopt Blockchain technology. Currently, nine percent of financial services firms are already investing in related technologies. It is predicted that 36% of those not yet actively engaged in investing will be within the next three years.

According to the IDC, by 2020 $45 million will be spent by financial institutions on enabling Blockchain technologies. By the same year, 20% of global trade finance will likely incorporate distributed ledger technology. Financial institutions are not the only businesses that stand to gain from the use of distributed ledger technologies, though.

The PwC recently found that 11 percent of leisure and hospitality companies have already begun to invest in associated technologies. They are joined by 12% of healthcare companies, 7% of energy and mining companies, and 6% of automotive companies. Ultimately, the possibilities are endless.

New Regulations

Because the technology is so new, most governments haven’t yet established set rules to govern cryptocurrency. This allows startups to use Blockchain technology in innovative new ways. However, it also makes more risk-averse businesses less likely to begin implementing their use until more regulations are put into place to mitigate risks.

Some international organizations and national governmental agencies have begun the process of establishing regulations. Japan has already recognized Bitcoin as a legal currency, and various U.S. agencies have begun to establish policies on virtual currency and its use.

Why Invest?

Venture capitalists are already rushing to invest in distributed ledger technologies. Nearly $1.8 billion in investment funding has already entered the market. Forward-thinking investment firms and businesses would do well to consider doing the same.

There are a number of tech companies engaged in improving existing distributed ledger technologies. As they progress in their projects, they will be able to further improve transaction speed and scalability. Those interested in getting in on the ground floor would be well-advised to look into investing soon.

Skyrocketing Demand

The future of cryptocurrency is looking promising. There are few universities that offer relevant courses through their computer science programs, yet the need for developers continues to grow. Experienced engineers are currently commanding salaries of about $250,000 per year, and these numbers are likely to increase to meet rising demands.

The impact that cryptocurrency and distributed ledger technologies are likely to have on emerging markets is almost certain to be particularly stunning. Across the world, developing economies could stand to gain quite a bit from Bitcoin and other similar technologies. The global economy is likely to experience significant changes as a result.

A Few Parting Words

The need for skilled developers and investment capital is predicted to grow exponentially in coming years. Forward-thinking companies interested in investing in Blockchain technologies stand to gain quite a bit as they continue to impact the modern global economy. Find out more about fintech, cryptocurrency, and distributed ledger technologies online today to discover why.