Let’s be real for a second: when the market sucks, it’s easy to get discouraged about crypto. Savvy day traders might be able to eke out a pittance shorting futures, but bear markets are usually not fun for long-term holders who have invested in the technology. Many of us may find ourselves losing faith in that incredibly promising coin with a fully working product and amazing team, let alone all that stuff about blockchain revolutionizing the global economy. Well, don’t fear! It might not feel like it right now, but the outlook for crypto and blockchain technology is stronger than ever.
Forget price for a second and look at fundamentals. All over the world, blockchain is spreading like wildfire. Despite regulatory challenges, government crackdowns, bad press, exchange hacks, and the bear market doldrums, digital assets are driving into the mainstream with great gusto. There are so many incredible blockchain-centered events going on this year that it’s actually hard to pick a top five! That being said, here’s a peek at what’s on the table for the months ahead:
July 16–20th, 2018
Seoul, South Korea
In partnership with the Beyond Blocks, Hashed, and FactBlock, Korea Blockchain Week promises to be “Asia’s most prominent blockchain conference.” Featuring a panel of experts working with blockchain tech and finance, Korea Blockchain Week offers opportunities to learn, interact, and network with professionals within Asia’s vibrant crypto scene.
July 19–20th, 2018
San Francisco, CA, USA
Featuring speakers like Brian Behlendorf, Executive Director at Hyperledger, the CEO of BitMEX, founders of projects like Jaxx and Digicash, and numerous big names in the cryptosphere, Distributed promises to be an incredibly interesting opportunity. Focused on international partnerships and networking, insights into the latest blockchain trends, driving business objectives, and the latest technical concepts, Distributed is poised to be a heavy-hitting affair for serious players in the blockchain space.
3. Singapore Blockchain Summit
August 28th, 2018
Designed for business leaders, the Singapore Blockchain Summit is a 1-day event focused entirely on blockchain technology. Featuring representatives from over 700 different industries, keynote speakers, and roundtable discussions, this event promises to be an unparalleled networking opportunity for those working actively in the blockchain space. From fintech pros and angel investors to leaders in sustainable development and marketing, the Singapore Blockchain Summit aims to be the ultimate blockchain-for-business event in 2018.
September 26th, 2018
London, UK
A massive exhibition showcasing over 3000 delegates, Blockchain Live 2018 is drawing some big names from fintech, crypto, energy, gaming, and more. Notable speakers include Nick Szabo, creator of smart contracts, representatives from SWIFT, MasterCard, and blockchain expert Sally Eaves, as well as many more. Numerous media and strategic partners make Blockchain Live all the more enticing as an opportunity for networking with some of the best and brightest in enterprise blockchain.
October 31st — November 3rd, 2018
When the Prime Minister of the country is the keynote speaker at a blockchain event, it’s safe to assume that this is legit. Considering Malta is emerging as developing a regulatory framework for blockchain, it’s not too surprising that this event features speakers from within Malta’s government, as well as a huge variety of innovators in the blockchain space. Anticipating roughly 4000 delegates from around the world, the Malta Blockchain Summit will host a hackathon, an ICO pitch designed to connect projects with investors, and discussions about pressing issues such as regulatory frameworks, governance, and ICO marketing.
