top of page

Intro Guide to Crypto - Episode 1: Blockchain Basics

Updated: Sep 9, 2022


Intro guide to crypto: Episode 1: Blockchain Basics

What is a blockchain?


Blockchains are the underlying technology which cryptocurrencies use.


In essence, a blockchain is a fancy database. Rather than data being stored on a single computer or institutions like banks, data in the blockchain is shared amongst many computers (called nodes). All of these nodes have a copy of the database. Blockchains guarantee the security of a record of data and generates trust based on code without the need for a third party.


Data is recorded in blocks.

  • When new transactions take place, the new data is stored in new blocks.

  • Blocks have storage capacities – when they have reached their limit, they are closed and linked to the previous block.

  • As each new block is added to previous blocks this forms a chain of data known as the blockchain.

  • This creates an irreversible timeline of data.

There are three core aspects of blockchain technology to allow for efficient transfer of value:


1. Transparency: Blockchain records transactions and other data on a shared ledger (database) that allows participants to see all the information and agree on its accuracy: https://www.blockchain.com/explorer

  • A person’s identity is hidden, transactions are represented by a public address rather than a name.

  • If an exchange with Bitcoin is hacked, the hacker may be anonymous, but the Bitcoins stolen are traceable.

2. Decentralised: Blockchain does not store any of its information in a central location. Instead, the blockchain is copied and spread across a network of computers. Whenever a new block is added to the blockchain, every computer on the network updates its blockchain to reflect the change.

  • No middlemen needed - transactions are easier, faster and require less or no additional transaction fees. International exchange easier and faster.

  • Underprivileged people who don’t have access to banks can use cryptocurrencies. All you need is access to the internet

  • Secure – Hackers can’t shut the network down by taking over just one or two computers since the other computers will still maintain the network and resist any changes.

3. Immutable: Means once something enters the blockchain, it can’t be tampered with.

  • If somebody tries to edit or delete an entry in one copy of the ledger, the majority of the nodes (computers), who all have a copy of the ledger and continuously update it, will not reflect this change - it will therefore be rejected.

  • This is valuable for financial institutions as you can identify theft and simplify auditing.

How transactions are processed on blockchains:


How transactions are processed on blockchains

Banks vs Blockchains

Banks vs Blockchains 1
Banks vs Blockchains 2


What are some examples of blockchain use cases?


Capital Markets


What is the problem?

  • Multi-day transaction times, high costs and operational risks.

  • For example, with stock trading, the settlement and clearing process can take up to three days (if trading internationally this can be longer). During this period, the money and shares are frozen.

    • The time that the money is in transit can incur significant costs and risks for banks.


How are blockchains a solution?

  • Faster clearing and settlement.

    • Blockchain technology has the potential to support almost instantaneous clearing and settlement.

    • This is because once a transaction is confirmed and committed to the ledger, the associated token has also settled in the wallet of the beneficial owner.

    • This speed of settlement would lead to reduced costs, and lower counterparty settlement risk and fraud.


How are blockchains a solution? - 1

Supply Chains


What is the problem?

  • There have been countless outbreaks of E. coli, salmonella, and listeria in the food industry.

    • It has taken weeks to find the source of these outbreaks when this has occurred.

How are blockchains a solution?


  • As blockchains are traceable (one of the three core aspects of blockchain technology mentioned earlier), a blockchain can allow you to track a food product’s route from its origin to delivery.

  • In addition, these companies could see if it came into contact with anything else

    • Therefore, we can identify problems sooner and potentially save lives.

    • IBM has created its Food Trust blockchain to trace the journey that food products take to get to their locations.

    • Seafood supplier ‘Raw Seafoods’ are using Food Trust to trace their catch from harvest to the end user, to help build trust with consumers.

Insurance (e.g., home insurance in case of flood)



What is the problem?

Insurance - blockchain basics

  • Processing claims is lengthy and complicated as many parties need to be involved.

  • The whole process up until the settlement is inefficient - it requires input from various people slowing down the claims management and settlement process.





How are blockchains a solution?


  • Smart contracts (built on blockchains) could be used to overhaul the customer experience and management in the claims settling process. (Smart contracts are computer programmes that automatically execute based on pre-defined conditions)

  • If the claim settlement process is based on a smart contract, a GPS device can determine whether the insured house is in an affected area.

  • The smart contracts then read the data and if the requirements of the smart contract are met then it is executed, and settlement is triggered automatically.

  • Instead of waiting for 6 months-1 year (or even longer in some cases), using blockchain technology can allow you to get your pay-out instantaneously.

Comentarios


GB_CC_May_Digital Asset Trading_Whiteout
  • LinkedIn
  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • YouTube
  • telegram logo

GlobalBlock EU ApS is a company incorporated and registered in accordance with the applicable laws of the Kingdom of Denmark as virtual asset service provider, with registration number (CVR-number) 45126382. GlobalBlock EU ApS is wholly owned by GlobalBlock Holdings., a company registered in England and Wales with registration number 15929099 . GlobalBlock EU ApS is not a licensed financial services provider and is not supervised as such by the Danish Financial Supervisory Authority. GlobalBlock EU ApS is supervised with respect to anti money laundering by the Danish Financial Supervisory Authority within the scope of the Danish Act on Prevention of Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing and other legislation stemming thereof.

.
GlobalBlock Europe, UAB is a company incorporated and registered in accordance with the applicable laws of the Republic of Lithuania as a virtual currency depository wallet operator and virtual currency exchange operator, with registration number 306045642. GlobalBlock Europe, UAB is wholly owned by GlobalBlock Holdings Ltd., a company registered in England and Wales with registration number 15929099,  GlobalBlock Europe, UAB is not a licensed financial services provider and is not supervised by the Bank of Lithuania. GlobalBlock Europe, UAB is supervised by the Financial Crime Investigation Service under the Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Lithuania within the scope of the Law on Prevention of Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing of the Republic of Lithuania and other legislation stemming thereof.
 
Investors should be aware that cryptocurrencies are volatile investment instruments that carry a high degree of risk to the capital investment. The information in this website is not intended and should not be construed as an offer, solicitation or recommendation to buy or sell any specific investments or participate in any specific investment (or other) strategy. The products and services outlined on this website may not be suitable for all types of investors. The value of an investment can go down as well as up, and you may not get back the amount you originally invested. You should not invest more than you can afford to lose and should ensure that you fully understand the risks involved. Before trading, please take into consideration your level of experience, investment objectives, and seek independent financial advice if necessary. It is your responsibility to ascertain whether you are permitted to use the services of GlobalBlock Europe, UAB based on the legal requirements in your country of residence. The information in this website is for information purposes only and is subject to change. No part of this website can be reproduced without written permission.


 Client fiat is held with GlobalBlock in accounts with BCB Limited,and does not meet the definition of Electronic Money (e-money). Client fiat and cryptocurrency are not “safeguarded” nor covered by any compensation scheme. Clients could potentially lose their cryptocurrency or fiat if something were to happen to GlobalBlock or, BCB.

Cryptoasset Notice

Cryptoasset services are provided by GlobalBlock Europe, UAB (“GlobalBlock”).   Cryptoassets are not regulated in any jurisdiction and the value of your assets can increase or decrease. You should note that your cryptoasset profits may be subject to Capital Gains Tax.

The service you obtain through the website or the app in the UK, contains cryptoasrvices not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Please be aware that:

  • You will have no recourse to the Financial Ombudsman Service in the event of a complaint relating to cryptoasset services.

  • Your cryptoasset account is not protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme.

  • Cryptoassets may experience frequent price volatility resulting in a high degree of risk.

bottom of page