Humidity wasn’t the only thing in the air last week - Singapore was absolutely buzzing.
Token 2049, always a highlight on the crypto calendar, hit new heights this year. With over 20,000 attendees, the scale was impressive, but what stood out most was its inclusivity. From payments and digital infrastructure to gaming and financial services, every facet of blockchain development was represented. A clear sign that blockchain is expanding far beyond its fintech origins and permeating every sector of our economy and society.
If Token 2049 was a broad showcase of the crypto ecosystem, Solana BreakPoint was a focused blast of developer energy. The crowd was younger and more technical, but what they lacked in diversity, they made up for in passion and expertise. It was a strong reminder of the technical backbone that underpins all the hype and market movements we often focus on.
Both conferences, despite their differences, shared one crucial element: an infectious optimism about the future of blockchain and cryptocurrency. The energy and excitement took me back to my early days in investment banking when everything felt new, and the possibilities seemed endless. It's a contrast to the more subdued atmosphere I've experienced at Australian crypto events lately, and definitely something worth reflecting on as we look at our own market’s development.
The highlight of my trip was the engagement from both the Australian High Commission and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). Both institutions showed a genuine willingness to assist and collaborate. It's no secret that government and regulatory support can make or break an industry’s growth and MAS, in particular, stands out for its willingness to collaborate, embodying the approach that regulators should be partners, not just enforcers. It’s a model I’d love to see more of.
For me, Singapore offered a clear snapshot of where the industry is heading. Whether through diverse blockchain applications or the deep technical work by developers, the momentum is undeniable. The challenge now is bringing that energy back to Australia. We have the talent, the ideas, and the potential – but we have some catching up to do. What seems to be missing is the excitement and the unified push for innovation that countries like Singapore are showing. If we can cultivate that same level of enthusiasm and support from both the private and public sectors, there’s no reason Australia can’t play a leading role in the global blockchain space.
