Ripple, NEM, Fetch.AI and Emurgo/Cardano are joining forces to plant a stake in European soil by launching a new association called Blockchain for Europe.
The association is designed to represent the interests of blockchain companies and businesses throughout the region, while providing education about the “true nature and potential” of blockchain, cryptocurrency and distributed ledger technology. They also have an eye on helping Europe “create smart regulation to shape the global agenda on blockchain.”
Co-founder of the NEM Foundation Kristof Van de Reck thinks the blend of companies will give the association a unique way of communicating with leaders and lawmakers in the EU.
“There is a lack of unbiased information, especially when it comes to the open and decentralized application of the technology. By joining forces with different stakeholders that have blockchain at the core of their business, we aim to provide insights which are not tailored to the agenda of specific organizations or stakeholders.”
Dan Morgan, Ripple’s head of regulatory relations in Europe, says it’s important to help politicians understand blockchain and implement policies that will support the emerging technology.
“This is a critical time for policymakers in Europe as they seek to develop the right regulatory framework to capture the benefits of both digital assets and blockchain technology.”
Manmeet Singh, CIO of Emurgo, agrees that now is the time for smart legislation that will give new companies in the space the ability to expand.
“Within the scope of Emurgo’s mission to drive the adoption of Cardano globally, we are very keen to work with the European institutions in crafting the rules and regulations which will enable blockchain technology to thrive globally, thereby expanding the impact of our third generation blockchain Cardano, all under the leadership of EU governance.”
The association hosted a Blockchain for Europe Summit on November 27th, which featured the four largest European Parliament groups. According to NEM, “the debate showcased the potential benefits both for policymakers and blockchain originating companies when they engage directly and transparently.”
