ACCC has the updates on the tech industry news.
Recently, Facebook announced its plans to launch its own cryptocurrency, Libra. As a result, the Federal government is looking to regulate this endeavor heavily. As a nonprofit credit counseling agency, ACCC enjoys staying current with financial news. Catch up on the latest tech industry news in this edition of our Weekly Round-Up.
Facebook & Libra Explained
Cryptocurrency and social media might not be your favorite topics. Perhaps this new idea excites you. Either way, it’s better to be in the know. Let’s start this conversation with a video from The Washington Post, explaining what Libra will be potentially.
Facebook often strives to give more tech access to the world through their products and this product is no different. While Libra is a crpytocurrency like Bitcoin, it’s backed by actual reserves. This difference makes it much more stable. Additionally, financial data will be completely separate from social data as to avoid identity theft. There will be a dedicated app as well as availability on other financial apps.
Regulating Facebook & Financial Services
Now that we know the basics, let’s look at the recent tech industry news. CNBC (“US proposes barring tech companies from offering financial services.”) gives some key points to review:
- “A proposal to prevent big technology companies from functioning as financial institutions or issuing digital currencies has been circulated for discussion by the Democratic majority that leads the House Financial Services Committee.
- In a sign of widening scrutiny after Facebook’s proposed Libra digital coin aroused widespread objection, the bill proposes a fine of $1 million per day for violation of such rules.
- Such a sweeping proposal would likely spark opposition from Republican members of the house who are keen on innovation, and would likely struggle to gather enough votes to pass the lower chamber.”
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