Introducing the most expensive pizza in the world.
Two large Papa John’s pizzas for 10,000 Bitcoins.
Ah, the benefits of hindsight.
At least it's fresh.
*Listen to this article: AI-Generated Audio
____________________________
Bitcoin Pizza Day, celebrated this Wednesday, May 22, holds a special
place in the world of cryptocurrency. It marks the first time Bitcoin was used
to purchase real-world goods. And what was the first item ever bought with
Bitcoin? Pizza, of course.
On May 22, 2010, a programmer named Laszlo Hanyecz made history by
spending 10,000 Bitcoins to have two (large) Papa John’s pizzas delivered to
his door. This momentous transaction has since become a legendary tale in the
crypto community, commemorated annually as Bitcoin Pizza Day.
After a few days, on May 22, 2010, a fellow forum user accepted the
offer and ordered the pizzas for Hanyecz. This seemingly ordinary transaction
turned into a landmark event, as it was the first recorded instance of Bitcoin
being used to purchase a physical item. Back then, 10,000 Bitcoins were worth
around $41, making the cost of the pizzas quite reasonable. However, Bitcoin’s
value soon began to rise exponentially.
The Soaring Value of Bitcoin
Nine months after the famous pizza purchase, the value of those 10,000
Bitcoins had already risen to $10,000. Fast forward to 2015, and the two pizzas
would have cost him an astonishing $2.4 million. By 2021, when Bitcoin reached
an all-time high of $63,000 per Bitcoin, the value of the pizzas would have
been a jaw-dropping $630 million. It’s no wonder that Hanyecz’s purchase is
often referred to as the most expensive pizza order in history.
Who wants to celebrate Bitcoin Pizza Day at the largest global pizza party EVER, this WEDnesday, May 22?
Let’s play a little game of “what if.” What if Laszlo Hanyecz had
decided to hold onto his 10,000 Bitcoins instead of spending them on pizza? As
of Bitcoin’s peak value of $68,990 in late 2021, Hanyecz’s 10,000 Bitcoins
would have been worth nearly $690 million. To put that in perspective, here’s a
list of things Hanyecz could have bought with that kind of money:
Pizzas
At an average price of $15 each (in the
US), Hanyecz could have indulged in 46 million Papa John's pizzas. That’s enough to feed a
small country!
Luxury Homes
Beverly Hills Mansion: A sprawling estate with 20,000 sq ft of living
space, 10 bedrooms, 15 bathrooms, a pool, and a private cinema for $100
million. He could buy 6.9 of these mansions.
Penthouse in New York City: A 10,000 sq ft penthouse with stunning city
views, 6 bedrooms, and 8 bathrooms for $80 million. He could purchase 8.6.
Villa in the French Riviera: A luxurious 12,000 sq ft villa with 8
bedrooms, a private beach, and a large infinity pool for $70 million. He'd own 9.9 villas.
Private Islands
Musha Cay in the Bahamas: A 150-acre private island with multiple guest
villas, a private airstrip, and a full staff for $50 million. That's 13.8 islands.
Cars
Bugatti Chiron: One of the most expensive and luxurious cars in the
world, costing $3 million each. He could buy 230.
Rolls-Royce Phantom: The epitome of luxury, priced at $500,000 each.
He'd own 1,380.
1962 Ferrari 250 GTO: A highly sought-after collector’s car, sold for
$48.4 million. He could buy 14.3.
Private Jets
Gulfstream G650: A state-of-the-art private jet with a price tag of $65
million. That'd be 10.6 planes.
Yachts
Superyacht: A 200-foot luxury yacht with a helipad, multiple decks, and
lavish interiors for $150 million. Fancy 4.6 superyachts?
Fine Art
Leonardo da Vinci's Salvator Mundi: The most expensive painting ever
sold at auction for $450 million. You'd end up with 1.5 of these masterpieces.
Van Gogh's Sunflowers: Valued at approximately $80 million. 8.6 copies, anyone? Though we'd suggest a refund on 7.6 of them.
Entertainment
Six Flags Amusement Park: Building a new theme park costs around $300
million. But then who needs more than one?
Luxury World Cruise: A 4-month ultra-luxury world cruise on a private
yacht can cost up to $250,000 per person. He could fund a trip for 2,760
people.
Space Tourism: A ticket to space with SpaceX or Blue Origin costs
around $55 million. 12.5 people to space, please.
Charity
Endow a Scholarship Fund: He could set up a $690 million endowment
fund.
While Laszlo Hanyecz’s story might be amusing and even a little painful
to think about, it offers a valuable lesson in hindsight and the unpredictable
nature of investments. At the time of his purchase, Bitcoin was a novelty, and
its future was uncertain. Hanyecz’s transaction helped to demonstrate the
practical use of Bitcoin and contributed to its growing legitimacy as a form of
currency.
Hanyecz himself has taken the story in stride, maintaining a sense of
humor about the whole situation. In a 2019 interview with CBS, he told Anderson
Cooper that the transaction “made [Bitcoin] real for some people. It certainly
did for me.” Despite the missed financial windfall, Hanyecz’s contribution to
Bitcoin’s history is undeniable, and his story continues to inspire and
entertain the crypto community.
For more stories on the edge of the markets, visit our Trending section.
*Listen to this article: AI-Generated Audio
____________________________
Bitcoin Pizza Day, celebrated this Wednesday, May 22, holds a special
place in the world of cryptocurrency. It marks the first time Bitcoin was used
to purchase real-world goods. And what was the first item ever bought with
Bitcoin? Pizza, of course.
On May 22, 2010, a programmer named Laszlo Hanyecz made history by
spending 10,000 Bitcoins to have two (large) Papa John’s pizzas delivered to
his door. This momentous transaction has since become a legendary tale in the
crypto community, commemorated annually as Bitcoin Pizza Day.
After a few days, on May 22, 2010, a fellow forum user accepted the
offer and ordered the pizzas for Hanyecz. This seemingly ordinary transaction
turned into a landmark event, as it was the first recorded instance of Bitcoin
being used to purchase a physical item. Back then, 10,000 Bitcoins were worth
around $41, making the cost of the pizzas quite reasonable. However, Bitcoin’s
value soon began to rise exponentially.
The Soaring Value of Bitcoin
Nine months after the famous pizza purchase, the value of those 10,000
Bitcoins had already risen to $10,000. Fast forward to 2015, and the two pizzas
would have cost him an astonishing $2.4 million. By 2021, when Bitcoin reached
an all-time high of $63,000 per Bitcoin, the value of the pizzas would have
been a jaw-dropping $630 million. It’s no wonder that Hanyecz’s purchase is
often referred to as the most expensive pizza order in history.
Who wants to celebrate Bitcoin Pizza Day at the largest global pizza party EVER, this WEDnesday, May 22?
Let’s play a little game of “what if.” What if Laszlo Hanyecz had
decided to hold onto his 10,000 Bitcoins instead of spending them on pizza? As
of Bitcoin’s peak value of $68,990 in late 2021, Hanyecz’s 10,000 Bitcoins
would have been worth nearly $690 million. To put that in perspective, here’s a
list of things Hanyecz could have bought with that kind of money:
Pizzas
At an average price of $15 each (in the
US), Hanyecz could have indulged in 46 million Papa John's pizzas. That’s enough to feed a
small country!
Luxury Homes
Beverly Hills Mansion: A sprawling estate with 20,000 sq ft of living
space, 10 bedrooms, 15 bathrooms, a pool, and a private cinema for $100
million. He could buy 6.9 of these mansions.
Penthouse in New York City: A 10,000 sq ft penthouse with stunning city
views, 6 bedrooms, and 8 bathrooms for $80 million. He could purchase 8.6.
Villa in the French Riviera: A luxurious 12,000 sq ft villa with 8
bedrooms, a private beach, and a large infinity pool for $70 million. He'd own 9.9 villas.
Private Islands
Musha Cay in the Bahamas: A 150-acre private island with multiple guest
villas, a private airstrip, and a full staff for $50 million. That's 13.8 islands.
Cars
Bugatti Chiron: One of the most expensive and luxurious cars in the
world, costing $3 million each. He could buy 230.
Rolls-Royce Phantom: The epitome of luxury, priced at $500,000 each.
He'd own 1,380.
1962 Ferrari 250 GTO: A highly sought-after collector’s car, sold for
$48.4 million. He could buy 14.3.
Private Jets
Gulfstream G650: A state-of-the-art private jet with a price tag of $65
million. That'd be 10.6 planes.
Yachts
Superyacht: A 200-foot luxury yacht with a helipad, multiple decks, and
lavish interiors for $150 million. Fancy 4.6 superyachts?
Fine Art
Leonardo da Vinci's Salvator Mundi: The most expensive painting ever
sold at auction for $450 million. You'd end up with 1.5 of these masterpieces.
Van Gogh's Sunflowers: Valued at approximately $80 million. 8.6 copies, anyone? Though we'd suggest a refund on 7.6 of them.
Entertainment
Six Flags Amusement Park: Building a new theme park costs around $300
million. But then who needs more than one?
Luxury World Cruise: A 4-month ultra-luxury world cruise on a private
yacht can cost up to $250,000 per person. He could fund a trip for 2,760
people.
Space Tourism: A ticket to space with SpaceX or Blue Origin costs
around $55 million. 12.5 people to space, please.
Charity
Endow a Scholarship Fund: He could set up a $690 million endowment
fund.
While Laszlo Hanyecz’s story might be amusing and even a little painful
to think about, it offers a valuable lesson in hindsight and the unpredictable
nature of investments. At the time of his purchase, Bitcoin was a novelty, and
its future was uncertain. Hanyecz’s transaction helped to demonstrate the
practical use of Bitcoin and contributed to its growing legitimacy as a form of
currency.
Hanyecz himself has taken the story in stride, maintaining a sense of
humor about the whole situation. In a 2019 interview with CBS, he told Anderson
Cooper that the transaction “made [Bitcoin] real for some people. It certainly
did for me.” Despite the missed financial windfall, Hanyecz’s contribution to
Bitcoin’s history is undeniable, and his story continues to inspire and
entertain the crypto community.
For more stories on the edge of the markets, visit our Trending section.
Louis Parks has lived and worked in and around the Middle East for much of his professional career. He writes about the meeting of the tech and finance worlds.
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Here is our conversation with Vinay Trivedi, CEO of SGX CurrencyNode, on Singapore's growing role in global FX markets, exchange innovation, and the future of institutional liquidity.
We begin with Singapore's rise as one of the world's leading foreign exchange centers and discuss the role SGX plays in an ecosystem traditionally dominated by OTC trading. Vinay explains how SGX has expanded its footprint across exchange-traded and OTC markets, building a comprehensive suite of solutions spanning execution, distribution, risk management, market data, and liquidity provision.
The conversation then turns to innovation and digital assets. Vinay shares how SGX has embraced blockchain initiatives, collaborated on tokenization projects, and launched institutional crypto derivatives to bridge the gap between traditional finance and digital asset markets. We explore how exchanges can adapt to emerging technologies while maintaining the infrastructure, governance, and trust expected by institutional participants.
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Here is our conversation with Vinay Trivedi, CEO of SGX CurrencyNode, on Singapore's growing role in global FX markets, exchange innovation, and the future of institutional liquidity.
We begin with Singapore's rise as one of the world's leading foreign exchange centers and discuss the role SGX plays in an ecosystem traditionally dominated by OTC trading. Vinay explains how SGX has expanded its footprint across exchange-traded and OTC markets, building a comprehensive suite of solutions spanning execution, distribution, risk management, market data, and liquidity provision.
The conversation then turns to innovation and digital assets. Vinay shares how SGX has embraced blockchain initiatives, collaborated on tokenization projects, and launched institutional crypto derivatives to bridge the gap between traditional finance and digital asset markets. We explore how exchanges can adapt to emerging technologies while maintaining the infrastructure, governance, and trust expected by institutional participants.
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Here is our conversation with Vinay Trivedi, CEO of SGX CurrencyNode, on Singapore's growing role in global FX markets, exchange innovation, and the future of institutional liquidity.
We begin with Singapore's rise as one of the world's leading foreign exchange centers and discuss the role SGX plays in an ecosystem traditionally dominated by OTC trading. Vinay explains how SGX has expanded its footprint across exchange-traded and OTC markets, building a comprehensive suite of solutions spanning execution, distribution, risk management, market data, and liquidity provision.
The conversation then turns to innovation and digital assets. Vinay shares how SGX has embraced blockchain initiatives, collaborated on tokenization projects, and launched institutional crypto derivatives to bridge the gap between traditional finance and digital asset markets. We explore how exchanges can adapt to emerging technologies while maintaining the infrastructure, governance, and trust expected by institutional participants.
We also discuss the relationship between SGX and the retail trading ecosystem. Vinay outlines the exchange's efforts to support broker growth through education, technology, and liquidity solutions, while highlighting the importance of retail participation in building vibrant and sustainable capital markets.
Finally, we look ahead to the second half of the year and the challenges facing market participants in an increasingly volatile environment. From geopolitical uncertainty and commodity price swings to shifting macroeconomic trends, Vinay explains why the industry's focus must remain on providing resilient infrastructure, deep liquidity, and efficient risk management tools for every segment of the market.
Here is our conversation with Vinay Trivedi, CEO of SGX CurrencyNode, on Singapore's growing role in global FX markets, exchange innovation, and the future of institutional liquidity.
We begin with Singapore's rise as one of the world's leading foreign exchange centers and discuss the role SGX plays in an ecosystem traditionally dominated by OTC trading. Vinay explains how SGX has expanded its footprint across exchange-traded and OTC markets, building a comprehensive suite of solutions spanning execution, distribution, risk management, market data, and liquidity provision.
The conversation then turns to innovation and digital assets. Vinay shares how SGX has embraced blockchain initiatives, collaborated on tokenization projects, and launched institutional crypto derivatives to bridge the gap between traditional finance and digital asset markets. We explore how exchanges can adapt to emerging technologies while maintaining the infrastructure, governance, and trust expected by institutional participants.
We also discuss the relationship between SGX and the retail trading ecosystem. Vinay outlines the exchange's efforts to support broker growth through education, technology, and liquidity solutions, while highlighting the importance of retail participation in building vibrant and sustainable capital markets.
Finally, we look ahead to the second half of the year and the challenges facing market participants in an increasingly volatile environment. From geopolitical uncertainty and commodity price swings to shifting macroeconomic trends, Vinay explains why the industry's focus must remain on providing resilient infrastructure, deep liquidity, and efficient risk management tools for every segment of the market.
Here is our conversation with Vinay Trivedi, CEO of SGX CurrencyNode, on Singapore's growing role in global FX markets, exchange innovation, and the future of institutional liquidity.
We begin with Singapore's rise as one of the world's leading foreign exchange centers and discuss the role SGX plays in an ecosystem traditionally dominated by OTC trading. Vinay explains how SGX has expanded its footprint across exchange-traded and OTC markets, building a comprehensive suite of solutions spanning execution, distribution, risk management, market data, and liquidity provision.
The conversation then turns to innovation and digital assets. Vinay shares how SGX has embraced blockchain initiatives, collaborated on tokenization projects, and launched institutional crypto derivatives to bridge the gap between traditional finance and digital asset markets. We explore how exchanges can adapt to emerging technologies while maintaining the infrastructure, governance, and trust expected by institutional participants.
We also discuss the relationship between SGX and the retail trading ecosystem. Vinay outlines the exchange's efforts to support broker growth through education, technology, and liquidity solutions, while highlighting the importance of retail participation in building vibrant and sustainable capital markets.
Finally, we look ahead to the second half of the year and the challenges facing market participants in an increasingly volatile environment. From geopolitical uncertainty and commodity price swings to shifting macroeconomic trends, Vinay explains why the industry's focus must remain on providing resilient infrastructure, deep liquidity, and efficient risk management tools for every segment of the market.
Here is our conversation with Vinay Trivedi, CEO of SGX CurrencyNode, on Singapore's growing role in global FX markets, exchange innovation, and the future of institutional liquidity.
We begin with Singapore's rise as one of the world's leading foreign exchange centers and discuss the role SGX plays in an ecosystem traditionally dominated by OTC trading. Vinay explains how SGX has expanded its footprint across exchange-traded and OTC markets, building a comprehensive suite of solutions spanning execution, distribution, risk management, market data, and liquidity provision.
The conversation then turns to innovation and digital assets. Vinay shares how SGX has embraced blockchain initiatives, collaborated on tokenization projects, and launched institutional crypto derivatives to bridge the gap between traditional finance and digital asset markets. We explore how exchanges can adapt to emerging technologies while maintaining the infrastructure, governance, and trust expected by institutional participants.
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Here is our conversation with Philip Huang, Chief Risk Officer at Orient Futures Singapore, on navigating market volatility, modern risk management, and Singapore's growing role as a global liquidity hub.
We begin by reflecting on the heightened volatility seen across commodities and energy markets in recent months. Philip shares how risk frameworks were stress-tested during periods of geopolitical uncertainty, why correlations breaking down is one of the toughest challenges for risk teams, and what stood out most to him was the composure and preparedness displayed by market participants throughout the turbulence.
The discussion then turns to the evolving nature of risk management. Drawing on insights from a private industry roundtable, Philip explains why successful risk functions increasingly require a combination of quantitative expertise, technological understanding, and strong governance. We explore the growing role of AI, automation, and human oversight, and why effective risk management is becoming a multidisciplinary discipline rather than a collection of isolated specializations.
We also examine Singapore's position in the global liquidity landscape. Philip discusses how the city-state has developed a distinct identity compared to other major financial centers, driven by institutional participation, regulatory stability, and a market structure that continues to attract sophisticated participants from across the region.
Finally, we look ahead to the second half of the year and the challenges risk teams are preparing for. Philip shares how simulation exercises, stress-testing programs, and forward-looking risk indicators are becoming increasingly important as firms adapt to an environment where volatility remains the norm and resilience is a competitive advantage.
Here is our conversation with Philip Huang, Chief Risk Officer at Orient Futures Singapore, on navigating market volatility, modern risk management, and Singapore's growing role as a global liquidity hub.
We begin by reflecting on the heightened volatility seen across commodities and energy markets in recent months. Philip shares how risk frameworks were stress-tested during periods of geopolitical uncertainty, why correlations breaking down is one of the toughest challenges for risk teams, and what stood out most to him was the composure and preparedness displayed by market participants throughout the turbulence.
The discussion then turns to the evolving nature of risk management. Drawing on insights from a private industry roundtable, Philip explains why successful risk functions increasingly require a combination of quantitative expertise, technological understanding, and strong governance. We explore the growing role of AI, automation, and human oversight, and why effective risk management is becoming a multidisciplinary discipline rather than a collection of isolated specializations.
We also examine Singapore's position in the global liquidity landscape. Philip discusses how the city-state has developed a distinct identity compared to other major financial centers, driven by institutional participation, regulatory stability, and a market structure that continues to attract sophisticated participants from across the region.
Finally, we look ahead to the second half of the year and the challenges risk teams are preparing for. Philip shares how simulation exercises, stress-testing programs, and forward-looking risk indicators are becoming increasingly important as firms adapt to an environment where volatility remains the norm and resilience is a competitive advantage.
Here is our conversation with Philip Huang, Chief Risk Officer at Orient Futures Singapore, on navigating market volatility, modern risk management, and Singapore's growing role as a global liquidity hub.
We begin by reflecting on the heightened volatility seen across commodities and energy markets in recent months. Philip shares how risk frameworks were stress-tested during periods of geopolitical uncertainty, why correlations breaking down is one of the toughest challenges for risk teams, and what stood out most to him was the composure and preparedness displayed by market participants throughout the turbulence.
The discussion then turns to the evolving nature of risk management. Drawing on insights from a private industry roundtable, Philip explains why successful risk functions increasingly require a combination of quantitative expertise, technological understanding, and strong governance. We explore the growing role of AI, automation, and human oversight, and why effective risk management is becoming a multidisciplinary discipline rather than a collection of isolated specializations.
We also examine Singapore's position in the global liquidity landscape. Philip discusses how the city-state has developed a distinct identity compared to other major financial centers, driven by institutional participation, regulatory stability, and a market structure that continues to attract sophisticated participants from across the region.
Finally, we look ahead to the second half of the year and the challenges risk teams are preparing for. Philip shares how simulation exercises, stress-testing programs, and forward-looking risk indicators are becoming increasingly important as firms adapt to an environment where volatility remains the norm and resilience is a competitive advantage.
Here is our conversation with Philip Huang, Chief Risk Officer at Orient Futures Singapore, on navigating market volatility, modern risk management, and Singapore's growing role as a global liquidity hub.
We begin by reflecting on the heightened volatility seen across commodities and energy markets in recent months. Philip shares how risk frameworks were stress-tested during periods of geopolitical uncertainty, why correlations breaking down is one of the toughest challenges for risk teams, and what stood out most to him was the composure and preparedness displayed by market participants throughout the turbulence.
The discussion then turns to the evolving nature of risk management. Drawing on insights from a private industry roundtable, Philip explains why successful risk functions increasingly require a combination of quantitative expertise, technological understanding, and strong governance. We explore the growing role of AI, automation, and human oversight, and why effective risk management is becoming a multidisciplinary discipline rather than a collection of isolated specializations.
We also examine Singapore's position in the global liquidity landscape. Philip discusses how the city-state has developed a distinct identity compared to other major financial centers, driven by institutional participation, regulatory stability, and a market structure that continues to attract sophisticated participants from across the region.
Finally, we look ahead to the second half of the year and the challenges risk teams are preparing for. Philip shares how simulation exercises, stress-testing programs, and forward-looking risk indicators are becoming increasingly important as firms adapt to an environment where volatility remains the norm and resilience is a competitive advantage.
Here is our conversation with Philip Huang, Chief Risk Officer at Orient Futures Singapore, on navigating market volatility, modern risk management, and Singapore's growing role as a global liquidity hub.
We begin by reflecting on the heightened volatility seen across commodities and energy markets in recent months. Philip shares how risk frameworks were stress-tested during periods of geopolitical uncertainty, why correlations breaking down is one of the toughest challenges for risk teams, and what stood out most to him was the composure and preparedness displayed by market participants throughout the turbulence.
The discussion then turns to the evolving nature of risk management. Drawing on insights from a private industry roundtable, Philip explains why successful risk functions increasingly require a combination of quantitative expertise, technological understanding, and strong governance. We explore the growing role of AI, automation, and human oversight, and why effective risk management is becoming a multidisciplinary discipline rather than a collection of isolated specializations.
We also examine Singapore's position in the global liquidity landscape. Philip discusses how the city-state has developed a distinct identity compared to other major financial centers, driven by institutional participation, regulatory stability, and a market structure that continues to attract sophisticated participants from across the region.
Finally, we look ahead to the second half of the year and the challenges risk teams are preparing for. Philip shares how simulation exercises, stress-testing programs, and forward-looking risk indicators are becoming increasingly important as firms adapt to an environment where volatility remains the norm and resilience is a competitive advantage.
Industry Talks | Vidushan Premathiratne | Founder, 8 Circle & TechLabs | FM Singapore Summit 2026
Industry Talks | Vidushan Premathiratne | Founder, 8 Circle & TechLabs | FM Singapore Summit 2026
Industry Talks | Vidushan Premathiratne | Founder, 8 Circle & TechLabs | FM Singapore Summit 2026
Industry Talks | Vidushan Premathiratne | Founder, 8 Circle & TechLabs | FM Singapore Summit 2026
Industry Talks | Vidushan Premathiratne | Founder, 8 Circle & TechLabs | FM Singapore Summit 2026
Industry Talks | Vidushan Premathiratne | Founder, 8 Circle & TechLabs | FM Singapore Summit 2026
Here is our conversation with Vidushan Premathiratne, Founder of 8 Circle and TechLabs, on startup growth, business development, AI opportunities, and the evolving digital asset ecosystem.
We begin with Vidushan's work across both ventures, from participating in the Bank of England's digital securities and digital pound initiatives through TechLabs to helping businesses accelerate growth through curated introductions, investor connections, and strategic networking with Eight Circle.
The discussion then turns to one of the most persistent challenges facing startups: go-to-market execution. Vidushan explains why customer acquisition remains harder than product development in the AI era, how founders can better identify decision-makers within target organizations, and why face-to-face interactions continue to outperform digital channels when it comes to building trust and closing deals.
We also explore the opportunities emerging from AI and agentic workflows. Vidushan shares his perspective on where startups can still create meaningful value, from workflow automation and digital transformation to AI-powered research, customer acquisition, and localized solutions tailored to specific markets across Asia.
Finally, we discuss stablecoins and digital asset adoption in the region. Vidushan outlines why cross-border payments and remittances remain one of the strongest use cases for stablecoin infrastructure, how regulatory and compliance challenges are being addressed, and why Singapore continues to position itself as a leading hub for innovation at the intersection of finance and technology.
Here is our conversation with Vidushan Premathiratne, Founder of 8 Circle and TechLabs, on startup growth, business development, AI opportunities, and the evolving digital asset ecosystem.
We begin with Vidushan's work across both ventures, from participating in the Bank of England's digital securities and digital pound initiatives through TechLabs to helping businesses accelerate growth through curated introductions, investor connections, and strategic networking with Eight Circle.
The discussion then turns to one of the most persistent challenges facing startups: go-to-market execution. Vidushan explains why customer acquisition remains harder than product development in the AI era, how founders can better identify decision-makers within target organizations, and why face-to-face interactions continue to outperform digital channels when it comes to building trust and closing deals.
We also explore the opportunities emerging from AI and agentic workflows. Vidushan shares his perspective on where startups can still create meaningful value, from workflow automation and digital transformation to AI-powered research, customer acquisition, and localized solutions tailored to specific markets across Asia.
Finally, we discuss stablecoins and digital asset adoption in the region. Vidushan outlines why cross-border payments and remittances remain one of the strongest use cases for stablecoin infrastructure, how regulatory and compliance challenges are being addressed, and why Singapore continues to position itself as a leading hub for innovation at the intersection of finance and technology.
Here is our conversation with Vidushan Premathiratne, Founder of 8 Circle and TechLabs, on startup growth, business development, AI opportunities, and the evolving digital asset ecosystem.
We begin with Vidushan's work across both ventures, from participating in the Bank of England's digital securities and digital pound initiatives through TechLabs to helping businesses accelerate growth through curated introductions, investor connections, and strategic networking with Eight Circle.
The discussion then turns to one of the most persistent challenges facing startups: go-to-market execution. Vidushan explains why customer acquisition remains harder than product development in the AI era, how founders can better identify decision-makers within target organizations, and why face-to-face interactions continue to outperform digital channels when it comes to building trust and closing deals.
We also explore the opportunities emerging from AI and agentic workflows. Vidushan shares his perspective on where startups can still create meaningful value, from workflow automation and digital transformation to AI-powered research, customer acquisition, and localized solutions tailored to specific markets across Asia.
Finally, we discuss stablecoins and digital asset adoption in the region. Vidushan outlines why cross-border payments and remittances remain one of the strongest use cases for stablecoin infrastructure, how regulatory and compliance challenges are being addressed, and why Singapore continues to position itself as a leading hub for innovation at the intersection of finance and technology.
Here is our conversation with Vidushan Premathiratne, Founder of 8 Circle and TechLabs, on startup growth, business development, AI opportunities, and the evolving digital asset ecosystem.
We begin with Vidushan's work across both ventures, from participating in the Bank of England's digital securities and digital pound initiatives through TechLabs to helping businesses accelerate growth through curated introductions, investor connections, and strategic networking with Eight Circle.
The discussion then turns to one of the most persistent challenges facing startups: go-to-market execution. Vidushan explains why customer acquisition remains harder than product development in the AI era, how founders can better identify decision-makers within target organizations, and why face-to-face interactions continue to outperform digital channels when it comes to building trust and closing deals.
We also explore the opportunities emerging from AI and agentic workflows. Vidushan shares his perspective on where startups can still create meaningful value, from workflow automation and digital transformation to AI-powered research, customer acquisition, and localized solutions tailored to specific markets across Asia.
Finally, we discuss stablecoins and digital asset adoption in the region. Vidushan outlines why cross-border payments and remittances remain one of the strongest use cases for stablecoin infrastructure, how regulatory and compliance challenges are being addressed, and why Singapore continues to position itself as a leading hub for innovation at the intersection of finance and technology.
Here is our conversation with Vidushan Premathiratne, Founder of 8 Circle and TechLabs, on startup growth, business development, AI opportunities, and the evolving digital asset ecosystem.
We begin with Vidushan's work across both ventures, from participating in the Bank of England's digital securities and digital pound initiatives through TechLabs to helping businesses accelerate growth through curated introductions, investor connections, and strategic networking with Eight Circle.
The discussion then turns to one of the most persistent challenges facing startups: go-to-market execution. Vidushan explains why customer acquisition remains harder than product development in the AI era, how founders can better identify decision-makers within target organizations, and why face-to-face interactions continue to outperform digital channels when it comes to building trust and closing deals.
We also explore the opportunities emerging from AI and agentic workflows. Vidushan shares his perspective on where startups can still create meaningful value, from workflow automation and digital transformation to AI-powered research, customer acquisition, and localized solutions tailored to specific markets across Asia.
Finally, we discuss stablecoins and digital asset adoption in the region. Vidushan outlines why cross-border payments and remittances remain one of the strongest use cases for stablecoin infrastructure, how regulatory and compliance challenges are being addressed, and why Singapore continues to position itself as a leading hub for innovation at the intersection of finance and technology.
Here is our conversation with Vidushan Premathiratne, Founder of 8 Circle and TechLabs, on startup growth, business development, AI opportunities, and the evolving digital asset ecosystem.
We begin with Vidushan's work across both ventures, from participating in the Bank of England's digital securities and digital pound initiatives through TechLabs to helping businesses accelerate growth through curated introductions, investor connections, and strategic networking with Eight Circle.
The discussion then turns to one of the most persistent challenges facing startups: go-to-market execution. Vidushan explains why customer acquisition remains harder than product development in the AI era, how founders can better identify decision-makers within target organizations, and why face-to-face interactions continue to outperform digital channels when it comes to building trust and closing deals.
We also explore the opportunities emerging from AI and agentic workflows. Vidushan shares his perspective on where startups can still create meaningful value, from workflow automation and digital transformation to AI-powered research, customer acquisition, and localized solutions tailored to specific markets across Asia.
Finally, we discuss stablecoins and digital asset adoption in the region. Vidushan outlines why cross-border payments and remittances remain one of the strongest use cases for stablecoin infrastructure, how regulatory and compliance challenges are being addressed, and why Singapore continues to position itself as a leading hub for innovation at the intersection of finance and technology.
Industry Talks | Luke Boland | Head of Fintech Coverage, Standard Chartered | FM Singapore Summit 26
Industry Talks | Luke Boland | Head of Fintech Coverage, Standard Chartered | FM Singapore Summit 26
Industry Talks | Luke Boland | Head of Fintech Coverage, Standard Chartered | FM Singapore Summit 26
Industry Talks | Luke Boland | Head of Fintech Coverage, Standard Chartered | FM Singapore Summit 26
Industry Talks | Luke Boland | Head of Fintech Coverage, Standard Chartered | FM Singapore Summit 26
Industry Talks | Luke Boland | Head of Fintech Coverage, Standard Chartered | FM Singapore Summit 26
Here is our conversation with Luke Boland, Global Head of Fintech Coverage at Standard Chartered, on the evolving relationship between traditional banking and digital assets.
We begin by discussing how banks' attitudes toward crypto and digital assets have changed over the past few years. Luke explains Standard Chartered's journey from banking the ecosystem to actively building infrastructure across key markets, and how the bank sees itself as a bridge between traditional finance and the crypto-native world.
The conversation then explores the challenges and opportunities facing banks as digital asset adoption accelerates. Luke shares why stablecoins have emerged as one of the most compelling use cases, how client demand continues to shape the bank's strategy, and what lessons the wider banking sector can learn from the rapid evolution of blockchain-based financial services.
We also dive into real-world applications beyond the hype cycle, including digital asset custody, collateral management, and partnerships between global financial institutions and crypto exchanges. Luke discusses how Standard Chartered is helping institutional clients access digital asset markets while maintaining the security, governance, and trust expected from a global bank.
Finally, we look ahead to the next phase of financial innovation, with a focus on stablecoins, on-chain financial infrastructure, and the future of payments. Luke shares insights into Standard Chartered's recent Hong Kong stablecoin initiative and explains why the bank believes that a growing share of financial services will ultimately move on-chain.
Here is our conversation with Luke Boland, Global Head of Fintech Coverage at Standard Chartered, on the evolving relationship between traditional banking and digital assets.
We begin by discussing how banks' attitudes toward crypto and digital assets have changed over the past few years. Luke explains Standard Chartered's journey from banking the ecosystem to actively building infrastructure across key markets, and how the bank sees itself as a bridge between traditional finance and the crypto-native world.
The conversation then explores the challenges and opportunities facing banks as digital asset adoption accelerates. Luke shares why stablecoins have emerged as one of the most compelling use cases, how client demand continues to shape the bank's strategy, and what lessons the wider banking sector can learn from the rapid evolution of blockchain-based financial services.
We also dive into real-world applications beyond the hype cycle, including digital asset custody, collateral management, and partnerships between global financial institutions and crypto exchanges. Luke discusses how Standard Chartered is helping institutional clients access digital asset markets while maintaining the security, governance, and trust expected from a global bank.
Finally, we look ahead to the next phase of financial innovation, with a focus on stablecoins, on-chain financial infrastructure, and the future of payments. Luke shares insights into Standard Chartered's recent Hong Kong stablecoin initiative and explains why the bank believes that a growing share of financial services will ultimately move on-chain.
Here is our conversation with Luke Boland, Global Head of Fintech Coverage at Standard Chartered, on the evolving relationship between traditional banking and digital assets.
We begin by discussing how banks' attitudes toward crypto and digital assets have changed over the past few years. Luke explains Standard Chartered's journey from banking the ecosystem to actively building infrastructure across key markets, and how the bank sees itself as a bridge between traditional finance and the crypto-native world.
The conversation then explores the challenges and opportunities facing banks as digital asset adoption accelerates. Luke shares why stablecoins have emerged as one of the most compelling use cases, how client demand continues to shape the bank's strategy, and what lessons the wider banking sector can learn from the rapid evolution of blockchain-based financial services.
We also dive into real-world applications beyond the hype cycle, including digital asset custody, collateral management, and partnerships between global financial institutions and crypto exchanges. Luke discusses how Standard Chartered is helping institutional clients access digital asset markets while maintaining the security, governance, and trust expected from a global bank.
Finally, we look ahead to the next phase of financial innovation, with a focus on stablecoins, on-chain financial infrastructure, and the future of payments. Luke shares insights into Standard Chartered's recent Hong Kong stablecoin initiative and explains why the bank believes that a growing share of financial services will ultimately move on-chain.
Here is our conversation with Luke Boland, Global Head of Fintech Coverage at Standard Chartered, on the evolving relationship between traditional banking and digital assets.
We begin by discussing how banks' attitudes toward crypto and digital assets have changed over the past few years. Luke explains Standard Chartered's journey from banking the ecosystem to actively building infrastructure across key markets, and how the bank sees itself as a bridge between traditional finance and the crypto-native world.
The conversation then explores the challenges and opportunities facing banks as digital asset adoption accelerates. Luke shares why stablecoins have emerged as one of the most compelling use cases, how client demand continues to shape the bank's strategy, and what lessons the wider banking sector can learn from the rapid evolution of blockchain-based financial services.
We also dive into real-world applications beyond the hype cycle, including digital asset custody, collateral management, and partnerships between global financial institutions and crypto exchanges. Luke discusses how Standard Chartered is helping institutional clients access digital asset markets while maintaining the security, governance, and trust expected from a global bank.
Finally, we look ahead to the next phase of financial innovation, with a focus on stablecoins, on-chain financial infrastructure, and the future of payments. Luke shares insights into Standard Chartered's recent Hong Kong stablecoin initiative and explains why the bank believes that a growing share of financial services will ultimately move on-chain.
Here is our conversation with Luke Boland, Global Head of Fintech Coverage at Standard Chartered, on the evolving relationship between traditional banking and digital assets.
We begin by discussing how banks' attitudes toward crypto and digital assets have changed over the past few years. Luke explains Standard Chartered's journey from banking the ecosystem to actively building infrastructure across key markets, and how the bank sees itself as a bridge between traditional finance and the crypto-native world.
The conversation then explores the challenges and opportunities facing banks as digital asset adoption accelerates. Luke shares why stablecoins have emerged as one of the most compelling use cases, how client demand continues to shape the bank's strategy, and what lessons the wider banking sector can learn from the rapid evolution of blockchain-based financial services.
We also dive into real-world applications beyond the hype cycle, including digital asset custody, collateral management, and partnerships between global financial institutions and crypto exchanges. Luke discusses how Standard Chartered is helping institutional clients access digital asset markets while maintaining the security, governance, and trust expected from a global bank.
Finally, we look ahead to the next phase of financial innovation, with a focus on stablecoins, on-chain financial infrastructure, and the future of payments. Luke shares insights into Standard Chartered's recent Hong Kong stablecoin initiative and explains why the bank believes that a growing share of financial services will ultimately move on-chain.
Here is our conversation with Luke Boland, Global Head of Fintech Coverage at Standard Chartered, on the evolving relationship between traditional banking and digital assets.
We begin by discussing how banks' attitudes toward crypto and digital assets have changed over the past few years. Luke explains Standard Chartered's journey from banking the ecosystem to actively building infrastructure across key markets, and how the bank sees itself as a bridge between traditional finance and the crypto-native world.
The conversation then explores the challenges and opportunities facing banks as digital asset adoption accelerates. Luke shares why stablecoins have emerged as one of the most compelling use cases, how client demand continues to shape the bank's strategy, and what lessons the wider banking sector can learn from the rapid evolution of blockchain-based financial services.
We also dive into real-world applications beyond the hype cycle, including digital asset custody, collateral management, and partnerships between global financial institutions and crypto exchanges. Luke discusses how Standard Chartered is helping institutional clients access digital asset markets while maintaining the security, governance, and trust expected from a global bank.
Finally, we look ahead to the next phase of financial innovation, with a focus on stablecoins, on-chain financial infrastructure, and the future of payments. Luke shares insights into Standard Chartered's recent Hong Kong stablecoin initiative and explains why the bank believes that a growing share of financial services will ultimately move on-chain.
