News, views and analysis from the A/NZ tech sector No images? Click here Hi there, They might be the pillar of the financial system, but bank guarantees remain clunky, paper-based and patience-consuming. That landlords and commercial tenants require thousands to be created and renewed to underwrite lease agreements presents a classic digital transformation opportunity. The fraud and error risk and an ongoing need to reconcile each against lease terms was enough to motivate a consortium of banks to create a solution. The ANZ, CBA and Westpac-backed Lygon blockchain bank guarantee platform promises to cut through some of that hassle. It’s digitised the paperwork and legality behind it to serve up real benefits for banks and businesses alike. At a time when many are still questioning the value of blockchain, Lygon has the potential to not only solve a big problem for banks and customers, but prove that blockchain really can deliver value. In other news this week:
Covid has hit the local education sectors hard. At a time when budgets are constrained, but digital demands are soaring, we take a look at how Victoria University of Wellington has harnessed Azure to help integrate its business, while still retaining internal ownership of capability. Enjoy the read, Heather Wright
Big four team up to digitise bank guaranteesBank consortium builds blockchain platform to replace paper guarantee processes… The bank guarantee is a pillar of the financial system. Retailers around the world – from single-store operators to international brands – rely on guarantees from their banks to secure leases on retail tenancies. “We’ve digitised the paperwork, the process and the legality behind it.”
MoH strengthens Covid border netWhile Bluetooth finally arrives for CovidTracer app… New Zealand has a new weapon in the war against Covid, with the Ministry of Health implementing a fully digital, integrated Covid border control system. “Information is needed to give health professionals and government agencies confidence that the risk of Covid-19 entering the country is low.”
NZ Tech joins dots for new ministerConsiderable opportunities, but… NZTech is calling for a more joined up approach to technology, including a longer term call for the establishment of a technology branch within MBIE.
Smart home, digital wallets driving eComDigital tills ringing to new tune… Smart home devices and OEM pay options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are winning favour with consumers when it comes to eCommerce transactions according to new reports from Juniper Research.
Outfoxing doxingHow to protect against the weaponising of personal info… Kaspersky have issued a warning to be more aware that we could be the target for ‘doxing’ and that our personal data can cost less than a cup of coffee on the dark web.
Wellington’s Victoria Uni embraces Azure integration projectTo keep them ahead of the game, which is important with a new technology stack… Founded in 1897, Victoria University of Wellington (VUW) is one of New Zealand’s oldest and most prestigious tertiary institutions and is rated in the top two percent of the world’s 18,000 universities. “They’re flexible, reliable and accountable. And they kept us ahead of the game.” PROUDLY SPONSORED BY Upcoming events: > AWS re:Invent | Nov 30 - Dec 18 | Virtual conference iStart is proudly supported by these leading New Zealand software providers: Latest Buyer's Guides ERP Buyer's Guide | CRM Buyer's Guide | HR/HCM Buyer's Guide | BI Buyer's Guide Privacy statement: We have sent this weekly newsletter to you at your e-mail address: [email address suppressed]. iStart will never share your e-mail address, but you may from time to time receive other event invitations or partner communications from us. You can opt out of these by managing your subscription preferences, where you can also update your e-mail address and other details. Find out more about iStart | Advertise with iStart | Subscribe |