Accelerating Quantum Innovation, SBI's Crypto Exchange Expansion, Paid Blockchain Education, US Restricts Ant Group and Tencent

Table of Contents:

1. National Quantum Initiative 1.1 Overview of the National Quantum Initiative 1.2 Coordinated Federal Program for Quantum Research and Development 1.3 Purpose of the National Quantum Information Act
2. Japanese Giant SBI Acquires Dow DAO Crypto Exchange 2.1 SBI's Acquisition of Dow Dow Exchange 2.2 Expansion of SBI's Cryptocurrency Trading Platforms
3. Universities That Pay Students to Learn Blockchain 3.1 Paid Learning Opportunities at MIT 3.2 Job Openings through MIT Bitcoin Club 3.3 Blockchain at Berkeley: A Pathway to Silicon Valley Jobs
4. US Explores Restrictions on Ant Group and Tencent Payments Platforms 4.1 Concerns Over Threats to National Security 4.2 Implications for US-China Relations 4.3 Impact on Alipay and WeChat Payment Platforms

The National Quantum Initiative

In recent years, quantum information science has gained significant attention worldwide. The United States, in particular, has taken a proactive approach with the establishment of the National Quantum Initiative. This initiative aims to accelerate quantum research and development for both economic and national security purposes. Under the National Quantum Information Act, signed into law in December 2018, the United States ensures its continued leadership in this cutting-edge field. By providing a coordinated federal program, the initiative paves the way for groundbreaking advancements in quantum information science and technology applications.

Overview of the National Quantum Initiative

The National Quantum Initiative, often referred to as the NQI, is a comprehensive program designed to propel the United States to the forefront of quantum information science. It encompasses various government agencies, research institutions, and private sector entities. The NQI's primary goal is to foster collaboration and innovation, creating an ecosystem that nurtures breakthroughs in quantum technology.

Coordinated Federal Program for Quantum Research and Development

One of the key components of the National Quantum Initiative is its coordinated federal program. This program aims to accelerate quantum research and development by providing resources, funding, and infrastructure. It supports both fundamental research and technological advancements in areas such as quantum computing, quantum communication, and quantum sensing.

Purpose of the National Quantum Information Act

The National Quantum Information Act serves as the legal framework for the National Quantum Initiative. Its overarching purpose is to ensure the continued leadership of the United States in the field of quantum information science. Recognizing the significance of quantum technology for economic growth and national security, the act aims to foster collaboration between academia, industry, and government. By supporting research, development, and workforce training, the act seeks to position the United States as a global leader in quantum innovation.

Japanese Giant SBI Acquires Dow DAO Crypto Exchange

SBI's Acquisition of Dow Dow Crypto Exchange

In a recent and significant move, Japanese financial giant SBI has acquired Dow Dow, a prominent cryptocurrency exchange. This acquisition strengthens SBI's presence in the digital asset market and expands its portfolio of licensed cryptocurrency trading platforms. SBI Liquidity Market, SBI's foreign exchange and derivatives arm, now fully owns Dow Dow, which was previously 40% owned by Yahoo Japan's YJFX.

Expansion of SBI's Cryptocurrency Trading Platforms

With the acquisition of Dow Dow, SBI now operates two licensed cryptocurrency trading platforms in Japan. This strategic move allows SBI to capitalize on the growing demand for digital asset services in the country. Through its existing platform, SBI VC Trade, and the newly acquired Dow Dow exchange, SBI aims to provide comprehensive and reliable cryptocurrency trading services to its customers.

Universities That Pay Students to Learn Blockchain

Paid Learning Opportunities at MIT

Students pursuing blockchain education at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have the unique opportunity to earn while they learn. MIT offers paid internships and part-time job placements at leading blockchain startups. This allows students to gain practical experience and receive compensation for their contributions to the industry.

Job Openings through MIT Bitcoin Club

The MIT Bitcoin Club at MIT serves as a gateway for students interested in pursuing careers in the crypto industry. The club's dedicated Slack Channel provides a platform for job openings and networking opportunities. Many local companies, such as Skynet Labs, actively recruit undergraduate students through the club's extensive alumni network.

Blockchain at Berkeley: A Pathway to Silicon Valley Jobs

At the University of California, Berkeley, students interested in blockchain technology can leverage the opportunities offered by Blockchain at Berkeley (Bab). Bab is a student-run organization that offers consulting services to companies like Qualcomm, ExxonMobil, Ford, and PG&E. By working with these established industry players, students gain valuable experience and increase their chances of securing lucrative positions in Silicon Valley.

US Explores Restrictions on Ant Group and Tencent Payments Platforms

Concerns Over Threats to National Security

Recent reports suggest that the United States is considering imposing restrictions on China's Ant Group and Tencent Holdings' digital payments platforms. The US government has expressed concerns that these platforms pose potential risks to national security. As digital payments become increasingly prevalent, the US administration aims to prevent Chinese firms from gaining a significant foothold in the US financial system.

Implications for US-China Relations

The exploration of restrictions on Ant Group and Tencent payments platforms further strains the already complex relationship between the United States and China. Disputes over trade, Hong Kong's autonomy, cybersecurity, and the spread of the Novel issue at HAND have already strained bilateral relations. The potential implementation of restrictions would mark a new chapter in this ongoing saga.

Impact on Alipay and WeChat Payment Platforms

Ant Group's Alipay and Tencent's WeChat payment platforms are primarily used by Chinese citizens for transactions involving the Chinese currency. However, these platforms also facilitate payments between Chinese travelers and US merchants. The proposed restrictions would aim to limit the influence of these platforms within the US, potentially affecting transactions and business relationships.

(Note: The article includes a discussion on the connection between Ripple, Stellar, and the Chinese payment platforms. However, further research is required to provide detailed information on this aspect.)