Cryptocurrency has been resurgent in 2021. Bitcoin has reached new highs and prominent sceptics have been forced to reconsider their positions. 

But there is a more intriguing story beyond this market fever: the digitalisation of the Renminbi. China has raced ahead of other central banks in adapting to digital currency technology. 

Beijing first piloted a digital currency in April last year. The programme expanded to 28 major cities in August and the government aims to bring it into broad circulation next year. 

If China captures first-mover advantage in digital currency, the appeal of the Renminbi as a reserve currency could rise sharply. It will put further pressure on the value of the dollar and could transform the international economy. 

To explore this trend and its potential ramifications, Chartwell recommends:

Yaya is an Adjunct Senior Fellow at the Center for a New American Security (CNAS) and the founder of Cryptocurrency AML Strategies. A former CIA analyst, Yaya focuses on the national security implications of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technologies. Earlier this month, he discussed whether its model will be a template for other countries to follow and whether the US might launch its own.

Jennifer is an entrepreneur and digital policy adviser, focusing on AI, blockchain, and data ownership. Jen was ahead of the curve and has been talking about sovereign digital currencies for several years. She spoke to Bloomberg last year about how digital Renminbi could change China’s economy.

If you are interested in booking any of the above speakers, please get in touch.