Distributed ledger technology has become an important topic around the world. Uncountable projects have been launched and are still setting foot in the business world. There are many different areas of application: starting with cryptocurrencies, to accounting and voting or even energy supply.

On January 21, 2019 the Blockchain Forum brings together experts, thought leaders and professionals in distributed ledger technology for the third time in Zurich. A great variety of presentations and discussions ensure that everyone’s needs and challenges are met.  

 Already today banks are operating in a totally new financial services landscape and for that, they need to check and possibly adapt their business models. Open Banking is rated as one of the most important trends in banking and there are different aspects which deserve a closer look. With strong legal regulations, a variety of APIs, data protection, to name just a few challenges, it is not easy to establish the right strategy.

HCL Technologies (HCL), a leading global technology company, has been identified as a Leader and Star Performer in the Global Banking Application Services PEAK Matrix™ Assessment 2018 by Everest Group. HCL has been named a Leader for the fourth consecutive year in the Banking Application Services PEAK Matrix assessment and a “Star Performer” for the second time after 2015.

Dexter the Digital Tax Advisor has been unveiled by Xero, the accounting software platform – to help accountants and small businesses prepare for one of the biggest changes to UK business tax in decades - Making Tax Digital.

The shopping season is upon us and, like every year, many of us choose to buy online instead of trawling through the shops. But do UK retailers ensure shoppers can trust their websites?

Sectigo, the world’s largest certificate issuer has studied 25 major UK retailers and provided a ranking, according to how effectively they maximise trust with their site visitors. To receive top marks an online shop must present its authenticated identity in a branded address bar and prevent “Not secure” warnings from displaying.

CFH Clearing, TradeTech Group’s multi award-winning liquidity provider, has appointed legal and compliance expert, Julia Free to its Board.

Julia Free, a qualified solicitor, has been promoted from Compliance Officer to Director at CFH Clearing. As part of her new remit, she will take on the role of Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) and has gained a CF11 accreditation with the FCA.

FS&I: The new order

The financial services ecosystem is transforming. While no organisation would deny the pressing need for digital transformation, I'm referring here to another kind of change; the very structure of the financial services sector itself.

A new order is emerging. Fresh vigour is in evidence across the sector. It's a time of considerable opportunity for those who embrace the need for fundamental change. It could also be a time of diminishing opportunities for those who don't.

SEBA Crypto AG & Loomis International have announced a partnership to build a TEMPEST Level A Deep Cold Storage offering for digital assets. SEBA aims to offer Custody services to institutions, corporates and individuals seeking licensed and supervised storage of crypto assets. Custody services facilitate access to and participation in global financial markets and SEBA aims to deliver these services for the crypto economy.