Karsten Wenzlaff, Advisor
August 26th, 2025
Finance | March 20, 2025

Image: Freepik/catalyststuff
As reported in various outlets, Elon Musk was recently asked on a podcast with Senator Ted Cruz about what he's learned during his time at Washington to which he dramatically described that the U.S. financial system has 14 computers at the Treasury that can print money out of thin air. But why is the world’s richest person acting surprised, given that anyone paying attention knows that the Federal Reserve has been digitally expanding the U.S. dollar money supply for decades, especially during crises?
It’s possible he’s just explaining it in a way that makes people stop and think. Or maybe he’s pointing out the problem for a reason like highlighting the massive debt-ridden and inflationary risks with the current system of 'printing magic money' and debt addiction. However Musk isn't just an observer here, as he has alternative finance investments in digital assets, fintech, and AI, all of which could stand to benefit if people start questioning traditional finance.
But Musk also uncovered something else, that is banks can also effectively create new money in the form of credit when a bank issues a loan. Now this might sound confusing but when you take out a loan the bank adds money to your account digitally while creating a corresponding deposit at the same time. It doesn't move existing cash around, it digitally generates new money in the banking system. So in this way, commercial banks also have 'magic money computers'. The catch is banks don't have unlimited freedom to do this as they are highly regulated and constrained by capital requirements, regulatory limits, and risk assessments, but banks
Although Musk's delivery about 'magic money' on the podcast was likely for theatre, the consequences of the current debt and U.S. financial system of printing money to stay afloat has resulted in the U.S. government being over $36 trillion in debt and counting.
As more money enters circulation, the value of the U.S. dollar declines as inflation reduces buying power (and eats away at savings) making everything more expensive. Then as the economy slows because consumers pullback on spending, the government tries to stimulate the economy by lowering interest rates, making access to capital cheaper...but that also makes the overall financial system more fragile, potentially forming a market bubble longer term.
Musk also discovered that the government doesn't track its own spending well. He pointed out that the Treasury’s magic money computers don’t always sync up, and that many payments aren’t clearly labelled for what they fund, and estimates that 80% of this gap is incompetence, 20% is intentional. The idea that trillions of dollars flow through a system that isn’t properly tracked raises serious concerns about government waste and inefficiency - enter DOGE slashing and cutting here.
Bitcoin was meant to challenge the currently broken U.S. financial system with an alternative that government's couldn't manipulate but instead of replacing traditional finance, even though there's been significant innovations in decentralized finance, CBDCs and tokenization of real world assets, crypto is being absorbed into the traditional system, since Wall Street embraced Bitcoin/crypto ETFs. Financial institutional giants like BlackRock and Fidelity are turning Bitcoin into just another institutional asset.
Meanwhile, Musk is pointing out broken anomalies of the current system but is he advocating for real change or just positioning himself to benefit in the next round of crypto's integration into traditional finance?
Think about it. The U.S. government prints money. Now, institutions are doing the same thing with digital assets. Bitcoin was supposed to be independent but that narrative didn't fly with Wall Street, and now early crypto players are being upgraded to play the same game of control. So although the financial game is being digitized and some ways modernized, the winners are largely the same barring the new names being added to the list. So will the future of money ever be decentralized as envisioned? One where fintech and blockchain innovations are shifting control to individuals. Or will it be a digital evolution of the same system, just with a different look and largely the same players.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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March 20, 2025

Ensuring the safety of students and staff is a top priority for schools worldwide. In recent years, school CCTV systems have become a crucial tool in enhancing campus security. From deterring bullying and vandalism to preventing unauthorized access, these surveillance solutions offer real-time monitoring and evidence collection. But the question remains: Are school CCTV systems truly the key to preventing campus incidents? This article explores the role of school security cameras in maintaining a secure educational environment.
Bullying remains a major concern in schools. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, nearly 20% of students report being bullied at school. School security cameras can help address this issue in several ways:
Vandalism is another serious issue that schools face, costing districts thousands of dollars in repairs annually. School CCTV systems can:
Unauthorized individuals on school property pose a significant safety risk. Integrating school camera systems with access control solutions can:
During crises such as school shootings or medical emergencies, real-time surveillance can be a lifesaver. Benefits include:
While school CCTV systems provide many security benefits, their effectiveness depends on several factors:
While CCTV systems enhance security, they are not a standalone solution. Critics argue that:
Despite these concerns, most experts agree that school security cameras significantly contribute to a safer environment when used correctly.
To maximize the effectiveness of school CCTV systems, administrators should follow these best practices:
While cameras alone do not prevent crime, they serve as a deterrent and provide crucial evidence for investigations.
Yes, but schools must comply with federal and state laws regarding privacy and surveillance.
Cameras should be installed at entrances, hallways, parking lots, and common areas while avoiding restrooms and locker rooms.
No, access to footage is typically restricted to school administrators and law enforcement as needed.
Key features include high-definition video, night vision, motion detection, remote access, and integration with security alarms.
School CCTV systems play a vital role in maintaining a secure educational environment. They help deter bullying, prevent vandalism, restrict unauthorized access, and enhance emergency response. However, they should not be viewed as a standalone solution but rather as part of a comprehensive security strategy. By combining surveillance with access control, trained personnel, and strict safety policies, schools can create a safe and supportive atmosphere for students and staff.
Investing in the right school camera systems ensures a proactive approach to campus security, fostering a safer learning environment for everyone.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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AI Innovation | March 19, 2025

Image: Freepik
As reported by AP news, the Supreme Court in Arizona has launched two AI avatars called Daniel and Victoria to explain court rulings in simple terms to make the judicial system more publicly accessible. So instead of publishing length, complex legal documents filled with jargon that the average individual can't wrap their head around, the two AI avatars deliver easy to follow video summaries within 30 minutes of the ruling, a game changer compared to traditional video production time lines.
The initiative was pursued after public confusion and backlash over a controversial ruling that prompted the courts to innovate a a better way to communicate its decisions.
These video summaries can also be quick and digestible in a way that can help build trust in the legal system but some are concerned that the explanations might be unreliable, oversimplified, or misinterpret legal nuances, raising important questions about trust, transparency, and responsible AI.
With the use of AI in public institutions is growing, financial regulators may not be far behind. Fintech companies, banks, and regulators globally are already using AI for automated fraud detection, risk assessment, and compliance.
So we shouldn't be surprised if AI avatars are soon explaining financial regulations and complex tax rules to the public and companies. If so, how do we ensure accuracy and accountability, or will people trust AI to be the messenger?
Canada has yet to test AI in legal or regulatory communications in this way and at this scale but the possibilities are worth considering. Artificial intelligence could play a role in making financial and legal systems more transparent but ethical concerns must be addressed. One to watch and learn, whether this is the future of public engagement and a smarter way to administer at scale.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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Regulation | March 19, 2025
Image: Freepik/rawpixel.com
Big news came out of the UK government on March 17 2025 for those in emerging tech and innovation. As part of the UK's blueprint for innovation, Sweeping changes are being made to its regulatory system, aiming to remove bureaucratic obstacles that have slowed economic growth, fast track innovation, and attract investment. The quarterback of this effort is a new Regulatory Innovation Office (RIO) that will ensure regulators focus on economic growth while keeping up with emerging technologies. The UK wants to flip the script away from excessive risk aversion and position regulation as a tool to drive progress in high impact growth sectors.
For NCFA and its community of fintech, web3, alternative finance, and AI driven financial sectors this is an eye popping development since Canada faces many of the same regulatory challenges that have long frustrated the UK such as slow approvals, unclear pathways for innovative new business models, and a fragmented approach to oversight. If the UK's reforms succeed, they could provide a roadmap for Canada to follow.
The UK government has recognized that start-up firms and scale-ups operating in innovative and emerging tech sectors like fintech, AI and digital assets have struggled with slow approvals, excessive paperwork, and conflicting rules that create too much regulatory complexity and uncertainty, slowing growth and 'stifling progress and innovation'. Further, the regulatory cost has made the country less competitive and the current approach is too 'risk adverse'. A study was conducted showing the regulatory cost is equivalent to approx 2-3% of GDP.
The government has outlined their regulatory vision for addressing the challenges that is agile, proportionate and competitive including:
The new RIO sets out 3 specific action plans to achieve these goals of (1) reducing regulatory complexity and burden; (2) reducing regulatory uncertainty, and (3) challenging excessive risk aversion.
One of the most striking changes is the introduction of performance targets for regulators. Of course, regulators have goals today but the new approach means that regulators will now be measured on outcomes that prioritize economic growth alongside consumer protection and reduction of bureaucratic obstacles. The UK's new Chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced that senior execs from the 16 largest regulators including the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) will have biannual performance reviews to assess their contributions to the plan and vision. This means the FCA and other key regulators will have to operate with greater transparency and agility, ensuring fintech startups don't face unnecessary roadblocks when launching new services.
The UK is also pushing regulators to embrace a risk-balanced approach to decision-making (aka principles-based approach), so instead of an overly risk adverse system where regulators error on the side of caution, there is now a directive to encourage responsible innovation which is particularly relevant to sectors like AI powered credit models, decentralized finance, and blockchain payment systems where regulatory uncertainty has slowed progress. Under the new approach, regulators will need to provide clearer guidance on AI in lending and risk assessment, and in the web3 space, provide faster approvals for tokenized assets to ensure the UK remains competitive in the digital economy.
Generally speaking, Canada struggles with many of the similar regulatory challenges as the UK, if not worse. From where we sit here in Canada, the UK has long been considered a progressive regulator if not a gold standard in regulating new technologies and novel models in financial technology in particular, so a similar approach could benefit Canada at a time when the country must strengthen its economic resilience and competitiveness, amidst President Trump's tariff-trade war and risks to Canada's sovereignty.
In short, the national Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA) does not have a dedicated 'Regulatory Innovation Office' that is tasked to cut through red tape and bottlenecks while ensuring provincial regulators are accountable for economic growth, but the CSA supports financial innovation through it's Financial Innovation Hub (FinHub) which offers resources such as the CSA Collaboratory, a cohort-based testing environment for regulators and innovators to collaborate, such as this testing initiative on data portability.
Additionally, various provincial regulators like the OSC, ASC, and BSCS have their own innovation related initiatives from sandboxes to innovation offices to foster a supportive environment, but none to our knowledge that issue and oversee performance targets for quick approvals, burden reduction, and contributions to economic growth.
The UK's regulatory overhaul is a catalyst for change and ambitious plan in regulatory modernization. If it works, it could set an example for Canada and others on how to support growth without sacrificing oversight.
The key takeaway is simple and clear: Regulation shouldn't be a roadblock to innovation and economic progress. With the right approach, it can help drive it.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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Payments Data | March 18, 2025

Image: GPR 2025 (worldpay report cover)
Worldpay has dropped their annual 10th Global Payments Report 2025 (83 page PDF report), which always contains reams of great data research and insights on how more and more people are using digital payments around the world, while cash becomes less common. The future of payments is towards real-time, mobile transactions combined with innovative fintech-driven solutions. Global payments are evolving worldwide.
1. The reality is digital payments are taking over. In 2014, just 34% of e-commerce payments were digital but by 2024 that number almost doubled to 66%. By 2030, the report forecasts nearly 80% of all online transactions will be digital, driven by mobile wallets, account-to-account transfers, and buy now, pay later (BNPL) service transactions. In physical store locations, the same trend is happening where digital transactions have gone from just 3% in 2014 to 38% today (2024) and are expected to reach 53% by 2030.
2. Cash is quickly disappearing but it’s not gone yet. 10 years ago, cash purchases represented 44% of in-store payments worldwide. Today, it's dropped to just 15%, and by 2030, it will likely shrink to 11%. Having said that, cash is stickier in some countries, such as parts of Latin America, Africa, and Asia where consumers still rely on cash for everyday purchases. Meanwhile cash has already almost disappeared entirely in countries like Sweden and Norway.
3. Real time payments and account-to-account transfers are changing the way people transfer money. For example, government backed national payment systems like UPI, Pix, and BLIK in countries like India, Brazil, and Poland respectively are expected to reach $3.8 trillion globally by 2030, making them a key trend in digital payments.
4. BNPL is still growing fast, as the opportunity to split payments into installments without a credit card is catching on across industries. BNPL transactions have grown from just $2.3 billion in 2014 to $342 billion today and are expected to reach $580 billion by 2030, a huge volume especially in retail and e-commerce.
5. Even though digital wallets are growing fast, credit cards are still holding strong at 45% of global transactions today. Banks and payment networks are introducing new features like Click to Pay and Visa Flexible Credential to keep credit cards relevant in an increasingly digital world. By 2030, credit card transactions are expected to remain relevant at 56% of global payments.
The table below shows how key payment metrics have evolved and where they are headed in the coming years. Download the full worldpay GPR 2025 report for regional and country by country payment metrics here.
| Metric | 2014 (Past) | 2024 (Present) | 2030 (Future Projection) |
| Global Digital Payments Share (E-com) | 34% | 66% | 79% |
| Global Digital Payments Share (POS) | 3% | 38% | 53% |
| Mobile Share of E-commerce Transactions | 19% | 57% | 64% |
| Global E-commerce Value | $1.2 trillion | $6.8 trillion | $10.8 trillion |
| BNPL Global E-commerce Value | $2.3 billion | $342 billion | $580 billion |
| Global POS Transaction $ Value of Cash | $16.1 trillion | $5.6 trillion | $5 trillion |
| Cash Share of Global POS Payments | 44% | 15% | 11% |
| Credit Cards Share of Global Transactions | 56% | 45% | 56% |
| Global Smartphone Users | 1.2 billion | 4.2 billion | 6.1 billion |
While cash usage continues to decline, fintech innovations in payments such as digital wallets, real time payments, BNPL services, and government-backed national payment infrastructure are driving the future of how consumers will pay and transfer funds.
Digital is most certainly taking over, by 2030 most transactions whether online or in store will be digital. These changes are happening to meet the needs of evolving societies and changing economies prioritizing inclusion, convenience, and speed. Just follow the money and you'll see.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association of Canada (NCFA Canada) is a cross-Canada non-profit actively engaged with fintech, alternative finance, blockchain, cryptocurrency, crowdfunding and online investing stakeholders globally. NCFA Canada provides education, research, industry stewardship, services, and networking opportunities to thousands of members and subscribers and works closely with industry, government, academia, community and eco-system partners and affiliates to create a strong and vibrant crowdfunding and fintech industry. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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March 18, 2025

Image: Freepik
The iGaming industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the world, driven by innovation, technology, and changing consumer behavior. As online casinos, sportsbooks, and gaming platforms continue to expand, industry professionals must stay ahead of trends, regulations, and emerging technologies.
This is where an iGaming conference becomes essential. These global events bring together industry leaders, game developers, regulators, and tech innovators to discuss the future of online gambling.
An iGaming conference is a professional event where industry experts gather to discuss the latest developments in online casinos, sports betting, esports, and gambling technology. These events typically feature:
🎤 Keynote speeches from industry giants
📈 Panel discussions on gaming trends, regulations, and market growth
🤝 Networking sessions for operators, affiliates, and service providers
🎮 Exhibitions showcasing the latest casino games and iGaming technologies
💰 Investment opportunities for startups and gaming entrepreneurs
iGaming conferences are held worldwide, attracting thousands of attendees from different sectors of the online gambling industry.
There are several must-attend iGaming conferences that bring together the best minds in the industry. Here are some of the top events:
📍 Location: London, UK
📅 Date: Annual (February)
🌍 Why Attend?
ICE London is the largest iGaming event in the world, featuring thousands of exhibitors, industry leaders, and gaming innovators. It covers casino gaming, sports betting, blockchain technology, and artificial intelligence in gambling.
📍 Location: Malta
📅 Date: Annual (November)
🌍 Why Attend?
SiGMA (Summit of iGaming Malta) is a leading European iGaming conference focusing on gaming regulation, affiliate marketing, and emerging technologies like VR casinos and crypto gaming.
📍 Location: Las Vegas, USA
📅 Date: Annual (October)
🌍 Why Attend?
G2E is the biggest gambling expo in North America, covering both land-based and online gaming innovations. It attracts casino operators, software developers, and investors from around the world.
📍 Location: London, UK
📅 Date: Annual (February)
🌍 Why Attend?
This event is perfect for affiliate marketers and digital advertisers in the iGaming industry. It focuses on SEO, lead generation, and affiliate partnerships for online casinos and sportsbooks.
📍 Location: Barcelona, Spain
📅 Date: Annual (September)
🌍 Why Attend?
The SBC Summit is dedicated to sports betting and online gaming, covering payment solutions, responsible gambling, and AI-driven betting strategies.
Attending an iGaming conference is more than just a business trip—it’s an opportunity to boost your knowledge, expand your network, and stay ahead in a competitive industry. Here’s why you should consider joining:
The online gambling industry is evolving rapidly with new technologies such as:
🔹 Blockchain & Crypto Casinos – Secure and anonymous betting options
🔹 Virtual Reality (VR) & Augmented Reality (AR) Casinos – Immersive gaming experiences
🔹 AI & Big Data in Gambling – Personalized gaming and fraud detection
🔹 Esports Betting – The booming market of competitive gaming wagering
iGaming conferences bring together:
🤝 Casino operators looking for new game providers
🎮 Game developers showcasing innovative casino games
📈 Affiliate marketers seeking profitable partnerships
💳 Payment providers offering secure transaction solutions
🏛️ Regulators & legal experts discussing compliance and licensing
Whether you're launching a new online casino, looking for game suppliers, or expanding into new markets, iGaming conferences help you connect with potential partners and investors.
Industry veterans share their insights on:
📊 Market trends & forecasts
📜 Gambling regulations & compliance
🎰 Game development & innovation
💡 Affiliate marketing & traffic strategies
From AI-powered chatbots for customer support to live dealer studios streaming in 4K, iGaming conferences showcase the latest advancements shaping the industry.
The iGaming industry is constantly evolving, and these trends are set to redefine the future:
More online casinos are integrating Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies for fast, anonymous transactions.
With the popularity of games like CS:GO, Dota 2, and League of Legends, the esports betting market continues to expand.
VR casinos offer a realistic gaming experience, allowing players to walk through virtual casino floors and interact with live dealers.
AI is being used to enhance player personalization, detect fraud, and optimize marketing campaigns.
With more players using smartphones and tablets, mobile-optimized casino platforms are now a top priority for operators.
The iGaming industry is one of the most dynamic and competitive sectors in the world. Attending an iGaming conference is an excellent way to stay informed, network with industry leaders, and discover new business opportunities.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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