07 Oct 2024 Marsha Tusk
Crypto Fest 2024 To Highlight Bitcoin, Stablecoin Payments, And Regulatory Advances Across Africa
On 11 October 2024, the DHL Stadium will host Crypto Fest 2024, one of the most anticipated South African Web3 events of the year. This event will highlight Bitcoin adoption, crypto payments, and the growing regulatory landscape across Africa, emphasising both the benefits and challenges of using cryptocurrency for payments.
Don’t miss out on this exciting event, tickets are selling out fast! Browse the ticket options below and reserve your spot online through Quicket:
Day 1: Networking Day – Cape Town City Tour: R2900
Day 2: Main Event General Access: R580
Day 2: Main Event VIP Ticket: R1900
Day 3: Networking Day – Cape Winelands Tour: R2500
Bitcoin Adoption: A Game Changer for Africa
Africa is rapidly emerging as one of the fastest-growing regions for cryptocurrency adoption. Recent reports indicate that Africa's crypto market grew by over 1200% between 2020 and 2021, and countries like Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa lead the way in Bitcoin usage.
As financial inclusion remains a significant challenge across the African continent, Bitcoin presents a potential solution by offering greater accessibility and substantially lower transaction costs compared to traditional financial services. A key theme in this year’s discussions will focus on how community-driven movements are advancing grassroots Bitcoin adoption.
Local organisations such as Bitcoin Ekasi in South Africa are playing a pivotal role in educating the underbanked and fostering financial inclusion, particularly in rural areas. Hermann Vivier, Founder and Chairman of Bitcoin Ekasi, will share his insights on the development of a Bitcoin circular economy in a South African township, demonstrating the practical applications of Bitcoin for local communities.
Additionally, Carel van Wyk, Co-founder and CEO of MoneyBadger, will discuss a major development in South Africa's retail and cryptocurrency space: Pick n Pay, one of the country’s largest retailers, has adopted Bitcoin as a payment method using MoneyBadger’s platform. This adoption marks a significant milestone, highlighting the integration of Bitcoin into everyday transactions and retail operations across the nation.
Crypto Payments: The Latest Innovations and Game-Changing Developments
Another highlight of the event will be the panel on crypto payments, focusing on the innovations driving the adoption of crypto payments across both global and local markets. One of the most significant developments in this space has been the rise of stablecoins. With over $2 billion in monthly crypto transactions occurring in Africa, stablecoins are providing a solution to the volatility commonly associated with cryptocurrencies.
By maintaining a stable value, these digital assets are enabling seamless international payments, particularly in emerging markets where local currencies are often unstable. In addition to facilitating cross-border transactions, USD-pegged stablecoins provide a safe harbour for those looking to preserve their savings in hard currencies, offering protection against depreciation and inflation—a common concern in many African economies.
Compliance and Regulation in South Africa
South Africa has introduced regulations for crypto asset service providers (CASPs), marking a significant step in the country’s financial landscape. A dedicated panel will explore the compliance and regulatory developments impacting the crypto space, focusing on how South Africa’s new regulations are shaping the future for CASPs, exchanges, and fintech companies.
The discussion will provide insights into how regulatory clarity is encouraging more businesses to enter the crypto space, while addressing challenges related to AML/KYC protocols and consumer protection.
Join the Conversation at Crypto Fest 2024
Crypto Fest 2024 will bring together thought leaders, innovators, and industry experts to discuss how cryptocurrencies are transforming Africa's financial landscape.
Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the conversation.
Tickets
A variety of tickets are now available from the event website here.
