News & Events

A recent study identifies Singapore as a global leader in blockchain innovation, with 1,600 patents, 2,433 industry jobs, and 81 crypto exchanges—impressive figures for a nation of fewer than six million people.

Hong Kong ranked second with a composite score of 82.7, leveraging its strong financial infrastructure to integrate blockchain and crypto technologies seamlessly. Estonia, with just 1.4 million residents, secured third place, excelling in blockchain adoption with 95 patents and 52 crypto exchanges. Other leading nations include Switzerland, the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom.

Despite regulatory challenges under Operation Chokepoint 2.0, the US remains a major player, leading in metrics with 32,000 blockchain patents, 17,000 jobs, and 166 crypto exchanges. Following Donald Trump’s election, Arkansas Representative French Hill has announced plans to introduce a crypto market structure bill within the first 100 days of the new Congress.

Read the original article here: https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/other/singapore-hong-kong-stand-out-among-blockchain-heavyweights/ar-AA1wu26S?ocid=BingNewsVerp

The African Development Bank’s Board of Directors has approved a £30 million equity investment in Africa Finance Corporation’s (AFC) innovative “green shares” to mobilise funding for climate action projects across Africa.

The initiative will support high-impact projects such as wind and solar power plants in Djibouti and Egypt, and energy storage systems in Cape Verde, whilst leveraging green equity to attract further investment from capital markets. Despite contributing less than 3% of global emissions, Africa faces severe climate impacts and a £170 billion annual infrastructure financing gap. The investment aims to drive sustainable financing, create economic opportunities, and enhance Africa’s climate resilience. The collaboration is expected to create over 1,600 jobs by 2031, deliver clean energy to millions, and promote inclusive growth, benefiting marginalised groups, including women and rural communities.

Read the original article here: https://africafinancecorporation.africa-newsroom.com/press/african-development-bank-to-make-30-million-equity-investment-in-africa-finance-corporation-to-catalyse-climate-action1?lang=en

The 16th of December holds profound historical significance for various South African communities. For Afrikaners, it commemorates the Battle of Blood River (1838), a crucial event in their cultural heritage. Conversely, the African National Congress (ANC) and other liberation movements mark this date as the founding of Umkhonto we Sizwe (1961), the ANC’s armed wing, symbolising resistance against apartheid.

Today, the Day of Reconciliation transcends its historical roots, focusing on fostering social cohesion, addressing past injustices, and building a shared future. Events across the country include cultural celebrations, speeches, and community-building activities, encouraging South Africans to reflect on the journey toward peace and unity. This day serves as a reminder of the country’s progress while emphasizing the ongoing efforts needed to bridge divides and promote equality.