In the latest episode of Decentralize with Cointelegraph, global reporter Joe Hall takes listeners to Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, for the bustling tech extravaganza, Web Summit.
As one of the world’s largest tech events, Web Summit unites crypto enthusiasts, tech lovers, and industry insiders to dissect the latest trends, anticipate future developments, and share insights on the ever-evolving tech landscape.
This episode explores that while crypto’s impact was felt during the Web Summit, there was a palpable skepticism about how seriously the Web Summit treats the industry.
José Artur Ribeiro, CEO of Coinext points out that the Web Summit’s focus on crypto and Bitcoin (BTC) at this year's event was: “Tiny.” Ribeiro, the Brazilian Bitcoin maximalist told Cointelegraph:
“When I arrived in our crypto stage, I said, well, crypto is out of fashion! [...] “
Indeed, the positioning of the crypto stage at the back of the event sparked discussions about its perceived relevance. Given the Web Summit’s approach, Ribeiro joked, “People are not in the mood for crypto anymore.”
Ribeiro referred to the fact that the crypto stages were numbers 15 and 16 at the edge of an exhibition hall large enough to fit several jumbo jets. Nonetheless, these stages were packed during talks. Standing-room-only rules applied as tech entrepreneurs from all over the world assembled to show their interest in crypto.
Kristina Lucrezia Corner, editor-in-chief of Cointelegraph, explained that AI had outshone crypto as the mot du jour:
“Last year was metaverse. I remember everyone was mentioning metaverse, in relation to anything—and I think regulations.”
She added that next year will definitely not be AI or metaverse, and with the impending Bitcoin Spot ETF decision, crypto could be back on the menu.
Related: BTC price bounces 5% as investor says Bitcoin ETF ‘99.9% done deal’
The discussion delves into the potential impact of approving a Bitcoin Spot ETF. Joe and his interviewees explore the approval's implications for the crypto market and further integration with traditional finance.
Join Joe on Decentralize with Cointelegraph as he takes you on a thought-provoking journey through Web Summit 2023, unraveling the layers of crypto’s presence, perception, and potential impact on the broader tech landscape.
This week’s episode of Decentralize with Cointelegraph — available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Cointelegraph’s podcast page and more.
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