Beyond the Bitcoin ETF: Real-World Blockchain Utility Takes the Lead

Courtney Hall
2 min readOct 25, 2023

The recent buzz surrounding the Bitcoin ETF has undeniably garnered attention across the globe. Yet, while it promises increased exposure for the crypto sector, its role remains largely confined to synthetic exposure. The real testament to the evolution and utility of blockchain technology lies in the myriad of partnerships and developments within the space. This article shines a light on those significant strides taken this year, highlighting how blockchain extends far beyond speculative value.

Key Developments in Blockchain Utility

1. $HBAR: Dropp’s integration with FedNow emphasizes the potential of micropayments in real-world settings.

2. $XRP: Its utilization for the government-backed stablecoins in Palau showcases blockchain’s governance potential.

3. $QNT: Becoming a pivotal tech vendor for several Bank for International Settlements Central Bank Digital Currencies (BIS CBDCs) is a testament to its utility.

4. $XDC: The partnership with the International Multi-Modal Digital Association (IMDA) for MLETR trade underscores the evolving digital trade landscape.

5. $XLM: MoneyGram’s no-custody wallet on Stellar signifies advancements in secure remittances.

6. $RNDR: With OctaneX’s integration into the App Store, digital applications see a new dawn.

7. $EGLD: Collaborations with Google Cloud and Tencent Cloud showcase the blockchain’s enterprise potential.

8. $ALGO: The American Red Cross’s initiative to construct a wallet on Algorand amplifies blockchain’s humanitarian applications.

9. $LINK: Cross-chain testing with giants like SWIFT and DTCC points to a promising inter-operable future.

10. $DOT: The introduction of parachains is a game-changer for enterprise utility solutions.

11. $DAG: Successfully completing the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II demonstrates innovation in blockchain research.

12. $EWT: Shell’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel certificate (SAFc) being adopted by Emirates Airline marks an environmental stride.

13. $AZERO: The DLT research grant awarded to the University of Nicosia accentuates the academic interest in blockchain.

14. $AVAX: Integrations with cloud giants AWS and Alibaba cement Avalanche’s position in the digital infrastructure space.

15. $ADS: Onboarding of major media companies signifies blockchain’s potential in content distribution.

16. $NEAR: Partnering with a Seoul district on Web3 adoption heralds a new era for civic digital applications.

Looking Beyond the Immediate

While the immediate price implications of such partnerships may not always be evident, they lay the foundational bricks for a robust blockchain industry. They attest to the inherent utility and diverse applications of blockchain technology.

While the Bitcoin ETF will undeniably draw more investors and curiosity seekers into the crypto space, it’s essential to remember that real progress is represented by tangible developments and real-world collaborations.

As the blockchain landscape evolves, it’s pivotal for enthusiasts, investors, and innovators to remain focused on the long-term potential and the revolutionary capabilities this technology brings to the fore.

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