WE LIVE IN A HELL WORLD
Snippets from the article by Karissa Bell:
SAG-AFTRA, the union representing thousands of performers, has struck a deal with an AI voice acting platform aimed at making it easier for actors to license their voice for use in video games. ...
the agreements cover the creation of so-called “digital voice replicas” and how they can be used by game studios and other companies. The deal has provisions for minimum rates, safe storage and transparency requirements, as well as “limitations on the amount of time that a performance replica can be employed without further payment and consent.”
Notably, the agreement does not cover whether actors’ replicas can be used to train large language models (LLMs), though Replica Studios CEO Shreyas Nivas said the company was interested in pursuing such an arrangement. “We have been talking to so many of the large AAA studios about this use case,” Nivas said. He added that LLMs are “out-of-scope of this agreement” but “they will hopefully [be] things that we will continue to work on and partner on.”
...Even so, some well-known voice actors were immediately skeptical of the news, as the BBC reports. In a press release, SAG-AFTRA said the agreement had been approved by "affected members of the union’s voiceover performer community." But on X, voice actors said they had not been given advance notice. "How has this agreement passed without notice or vote," wrote Veronica Taylor, who voiced Ash in Pokémon. "Encouraging/allowing AI replacement is a slippery slope downward." Roger Clark, who voiced Arthur Morgan in Red Dead Redemption 2, also suggested he was not notified about the deal. "If I can pay for permission to have an AI rendering of an ‘A-list’ voice actor’s performance for a fraction of their rate I have next to no incentive to employ 90% of the lesser known ‘working’ actors that make up the majority of the industry," Clark wrote.
SAG-AFTRA’s deal with Replica only covers a sliver of the game industry. Separately, the union is also negotiating with several of the major game studios after authorizing a strike last fall. “I certainly hope that the video game companies will take this as an inspiration to help us move forward in that negotiation,” Crabtree said.
And here are some various reactions I've found about things people in/adjacent to this can do
And in OTHER AI games news, Valve is updating it's TOS to allow AI generated content on steam so long as devs promise they have the rights to use it, which you can read more about on Aftermath in this article by Luke Plunkett
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The Future of Finance: RWA Blockchain and Its Transformative Potential
Blockchain technology has revolutionized numerous sectors, including finance, supply chain, and healthcare. One of the latest innovations in this space is the concept of Real World Assets (RWA) on blockchain. This article explores RWA blockchain, regulated blockchain, layer one blockchain, e-money tokens blockchain, MiCA-compliant blockchain, zk proof blockchain, and RWA launchpad. We will delve into these technologies' benefits, challenges, and future potential.
What is RWA Blockchain?
RWA blockchain refers to tokenising real-world assets such as real estate, commodities, and securities on a blockchain. This process involves creating digital tokens representing ownership of these assets, making them tradable on blockchain platforms. The primary advantage of the RWA blockchain is that it brings liquidity to otherwise illiquid assets, enabling easier and faster transactions.
Advantages of RWA Blockchain
Increased Liquidity: Tokenizing real-world assets allows them to be traded on blockchain platforms, thus enhancing their liquidity.
Fractional Ownership: Investors can purchase fractions of high-value assets, making it easier for retail investors to participate in markets previously dominated by institutional players.
Transparency and Security: Blockchain technology ensures transparency and security in transactions, reducing the risk of fraud and enhancing trust among participants.
Understanding Layer 1 Blockchain
Layer one blockchain refers to the base layer of a blockchain network that handles the primary functions of transaction processing and consensus. Examples of layer-one blockchains include Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana. These blockchains are responsible for the security and decentralization of the network.
Key Features of Layer One Blockchain
Decentralization: Layer 1 blockchains operate on a decentralized network of nodes, ensuring no single entity has control over the entire network.
Security: Layer 1 blockchains provide a high level of security through consensus mechanisms like Proof of Work (PoW) and Proof of Stake (PoS).
Scalability Challenges: One of the main challenges faced by layer one blockchains is scalability. As the number of transactions increases, the network can become congested, leading to slower transaction times and higher fees.
The Role of Regulated Blockchain
Regulated blockchains are blockchain networks that comply with regulatory standards set by governments and financial authorities. These blockchains aim to provide the benefits of blockchain technology while ensuring compliance with laws and regulations.
Benefits of Regulated Blockchain
Compliance: Ensures that the blockchain operates within the legal framework, reducing the risk of regulatory actions.
Trust: Regulated blockchains can enhance trust among users, investors, and regulators.
Integration with Traditional Finance: By adhering to regulatory standards, regulated blockchains can more easily integrate with traditional financial systems.
E-Money Tokens Blockchain
E-money tokens are digital representations of fiat currency issued on a blockchain. These tokens are backed by traditional currency and can be used for transactions and payments in a similar manner to fiat money.
Advantages of E-Money Tokens Blockchain
Stability: E-money tokens are typically pegged to fiat currency, providing stability compared to other cryptocurrencies.
Efficiency: Transactions with e-money tokens can be processed quickly and with lower fees compared to traditional banking systems.
Regulatory Compliance: E-money tokens often comply with regulatory standards, making them a viable option for businesses and consumers.
MiCA Compliant Blockchain
Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) is a regulatory framework proposed by the European Union to provide legal certainty and consumer protection in the cryptocurrency market. MiCA-compliant blockchains adhere to these regulations, ensuring that they operate within the EU's legal framework.
Importance of MiCA Compliance
Legal Certainty: Provides a clear regulatory environment for blockchain projects and investors.
Consumer Protection: Ensures that consumers are protected from fraudulent activities and market manipulation.
Market Stability: Aims to create a stable and well-regulated market for crypto-assets.
Real World Assets (RWA)
Real-world assets (RWA) are physical or tangible assets that have been tokenized and brought onto a blockchain. These can include real estate, art, commodities, and more.
Benefits of Tokenizing Real-World Assets
Accessibility: Makes high-value assets accessible to a broader range of investors.
Liquidity: Enhances liquidity by enabling fractional ownership and easier trading.
Transparency: Provides a transparent and immutable record of ownership and transactions.
ZK Proof Blockchain
Zero-knowledge (ZK) proof is a cryptographic method that allows one party to prove to another that a statement is true without revealing any information beyond the validity of the statement. ZK-proof blockchain utilizes this method to enhance privacy and security.
Applications of ZK Proof Blockchain
Privacy: Enables private transactions without revealing the details of the transaction to the network.
Security: Provides a high level of security by ensuring that transactions are valid without exposing sensitive information.
Scalability: Scalability can be improved by reducing the amount of data that needs to be processed and stored on the blockchain.
The Concept of RWA Launchpad
RWA launchpads facilitate the tokenization and issuance of real-world assets on a blockchain. These platforms provide the necessary tools and infrastructure for asset owners to create and manage digital tokens representing their assets.
Benefits of RWA Launchpads
Ease of Use: Simplifies the tokenising of real-world assets, making it accessible to asset owners.
Funding Opportunities: Provides a new avenue for raising capital by issuing tokens to investors.
Market Access: Opens up new markets and investment opportunities for both asset owners and investors.
Conclusion
The integration of blockchain technology with real-world assets is transforming the financial landscape. RWA blockchain, regulated blockchain, layer one blockchain, e-money tokens blockchain, MiCA compliant blockchain, zk proof blockchain, and RWA launchpads are at the forefront of this transformation. These technologies offer increased liquidity, enhanced security, and regulatory compliance, making them attractive options for businesses and investors.
How Can E Money Network Help You with Blockchain Technology?
E Money Network offers comprehensive solutions to leverage blockchain technology, including developing and managing blockchain payment platforms, e-money tokens, MiCA compliance, and zk-proof security features. By utilizing our expertise, businesses can enhance their financial operations, ensure regulatory compliance, and explore new investment opportunities through RWA launchpads.
FAQs
Q1: What is the RWA blockchain?
RWA blockchain refers to the tokenization of real-world assets on a blockchain, allowing them to be traded more quickly and efficiently.
Q2: What is a layer one blockchain?
A layer one blockchain is the base layer of a blockchain network responsible for transaction processing and consensus. Examples include Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Q3: Why is regulated blockchain important?
Regulated blockchains comply with legal standards, ensuring trust, compliance, and integration with traditional financial systems.
Q4: What are e-money tokens?
E-money tokens are digital representations of fiat currency on a blockchain, providing stability, efficiency, and regulatory compliance.
Q5: How does ZK-proof blockchain work?
ZK-proof blockchain uses cryptographic methods to prove the validity of transactions without revealing sensitive information, enhancing privacy and security.
Q6: What is an RWA launchpad?
An RWA launchpad is a platform that facilitates the tokenization and issuance of real-world assets on a blockchain, simplifying the process for asset owners and providing new investment opportunities.
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ICICI Bank – Record-breaking growth in digital and payments platform
ICICI Bank – Record-breaking growth in digital and payments platform
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ICICI Bank Q3 Results: Net interest income grew by 13.4%
Sector Outlook – Positive
In Q3FY24, ICICI Bank showed solid performance with its Net Interest Income reaching Rs. 18,679 crores, a 13.4% increase compared to last year.
Its operating profit before provisions also rose by 10.9% to Rs. 14,724 crores. However, the bank had to set aside more money for potential losses (provisions), which jumped to Rs. 1,049 crores due to new regulatory requirements for investments in alternative funds.
Despite this, the bank’s profit for the quarter still managed a 23.6% year-over-year increase, reaching Rs. 10,272 crores. Its interest margin slightly declined, and the ratio of bad loans (Gross NPA) improved, indicating better loan quality.
One major expense was a one-time payment for retirement benefits. The bank’s total deposits grew by 18.7% to Rs. 13,32,315 crores, and loans increased by 18.5% to Rs. 11,53,771 crores, showing strong growth especially in business banking and SME sectors. However, the proportion of low-cost deposits (CASA) decreased compared to last year.
Key Concall Highlights
ICICI Bank’s goal is to increase profits before taxes, focusing on customer needs across different sectors.
Personal loan growth was slower in Q3FY24 due to higher loan pricing, tighter lending criteria, and reduced sourcing costs.
New defaults occurred in retail, rural, and business banking, but didn’t significantly impact total bad loans thanks to improvements in corporate and SME loans.
Profit margins from lending (NIM) faced pressure but were balanced by additional income from tax refunds.
Non-interest income, including dividends from ICICI Securities and other investments, showed significant annual growth.
Operating expenses rose due to increased sales and marketing activities during the festive season.
The bank aims to maintain profit margins at FY23 levels, anticipating a slight decrease in NIM in Q4FY24.
Changes in term deposit rates are expected to impact profits in Q4FY24 and Q1FY25.
Management has implemented stricter measures for unsecured loans, such as increasing prices, rationalising sourcing costs, and tightening lending standards.
Valuation and Outlook
ICICI Bank, one of India’s major private banks, had a strong performance in the third quarter of the fiscal year 2024. Despite some challenges with profit margins from lending (NIM), the bank did well due to its fee income, beating profit expectations. The bank managed to reduce its provisions for bad loans thanks to fewer new defaults and a good approach to risk. A key achievement was attracting over one crore customers from other banks using its digital platform, iMobile Pay. The bank has been focusing more on attracting deposits lately. While its loan quality looks stable for now, there might be some concerns about potential loan defaults in the future, but the bank’s strong lending history suggests this won’t be a major problem. ICICI Bank’s strategy includes expanding its services in rural areas and using its large network of branches and ATMs for more product sales, which should keep its profits high. With a Return on Assets (RoA) within the expected range, the bank is positioned for double-digit growth. In case of any pressure on revenue, the bank might reduce its operational expenses to maintain profitability, but this could mean losing some market share due to stiff competition in the banking sector.
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Benefits of Using a Digital Payment Platform in Your Contractor Business
In the past, contractors typically only accepted payments via check. But nowadays, you can use a digital contractor payment platform to accept credit cards, debit cards, eCheck and more. These platforms take contractor businesses into the digital age, allowing them to take advantage of numerous benefits. Here are just a few reasons why you need to accept digital payments.
Get Paid Faster
Written checks usually take far longer to process than digital alternatives. Not only do you have to wait several business days for the check to clear, but you're also limited to bank hours. Plus, there's the headache of picking up checks, endorsing them, etc.
With a digital payment platform, those hurdles are a thing of the past. Payments can clear almost instantaneously. That means you get paid faster and can reduce downtime before you start your work.
Convenience
A digital contractor payment platform is considerably more convenient. For contractors like you, there's no need to chase checks or waste resources keeping those slips organized. But the convenience doesn't stop there.
Customers also love having the option to make digital payments. Check usage is slowly dwindling. Most people use cards to make payments, and it's not uncommon for clients to not even own a checkbook! Going digital is much easier on them, and offering those options could be the thing that sets you apart from your competition.
Fewer Payment Issues
Ask any contractor what the worst part of this business is, and most will tell you it's getting customers to pay their invoices. No contractor wants to hound clients. But you also need to get paid! It's one of the more frustrating parts of this industry, but digital payments could be the solution you're after.
Digital payments are far easier for clients to make. We already know that. But many platforms also have additional features to make things easier for your business. For example, you can send digital invoices to your customer's email or smartphone. You can even schedule reminders and keep track of payments to ensure all your clients take care of their invoices.
Read a similar article about contractor billing app here at this page.
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