During the PlanB conference in Lugano on Oct. 20, specialists deliberated on the potential of Bitcoin and blockchain to revolutionize conventional capital markets.
Under the banner “Exploring the Future of Capital Markets: Your Second Layer,” the session brought together frontrunners from various Bitcoin and blockchain ventures, such as Blockstream, Sideswap, Setup Labs, and Stalker.
The experts emphasized that Bitcoin, being decentralized, transparent, and adaptable, allows for direct P2P asset trades, encompassing stocks, bonds, derivatives, among others. This can eliminate the need for middlemen like stock exchanges, leading to reduced expenses and uncertainties.
Scott Freeman, the mind behind Sideswap, believes that developing these Bitcoin-centric “capital markets” will amplify both activity and interest in the digital currency. Some participants spotlighted the efficacy of Bitcoin sidechains, like Liquid, for high-level financial dealings in terms of security, speed, and functionality. Furthermore, the discussion shed light on current real-world examples of blockchain-based capital markets, from tokenized mining securities to stock exchanges. Nonetheless, regulatory intricacies were pinpointed as a primary hurdle for quicker assimilation.
There was a consensus among the experts that while both technological and regulatory landscapes evolve, there’s optimism regarding regulatory warming, especially in more compact regions.
In summary, the experts showed enthusiasm about leveraging Bitcoin’s infrastructure to reshape capital markets, making them more transparent and inclusive. They foresee a world where conventional assets and the digital economy coexist harmoniously.