Is China Becoming a Blockchain Superpower?
China Leads World in Blockchain Patent Applications
Even though China has cracked down on Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs), cryptocurrency mining, and digital currency trading, the blockchain technology remains a hot topic there. More than half of 2017’s 400 blockchain-related patent applications came out of China, and even Chinese mobile phone manufacturers are racing to launch blockchain-related phones.
South Koreans Will Be Able to Pay in Cryptocurrency at over 6,000 Stores
Popular South Korean cryptocurrency exchange Bithumb is partnering with digital payment service provider Korea Pay Services (KPS). Both companies are working to give over 6,000 of the country’s retail outlets the option of accepting cryptocurrency payments for goods and services.
US Insurance Giants UnitedHealth and Humana Launch Blockchain Pilot
On Monday, two of the largest health insurance providers in the U.S. announced that they would pursue a blockchain pilot aimed at improving the quality of healthcare data. The pilot will examine how sharing data across healthcare organizations on blockchain technology can improve data accuracy, streamline administration, and improve access to care.
14 Percent of Japan’s Young Male Workforce Invest in Cryptocurrencies
A study shows that 14% of male employees in Japan aged 25–30 have already invested in or hold cryptocurrencies. One third owns less than $500 in crypto, while only one tenth owns $9,360 or more.