Fedex, Tencent and more join the Blockchain Research Institute

Tencent, FedEx, and the Ontario Ministry of Health, amongst other members have joined a Canada-based blockchain research effort.

The Blockchain Research Institute that aims to serve as a hub for academic research around the tech was founded in March 2017 by Don and Alex Tapscott, backed by a group of companies like IBM and PepsiCo, a number of blockchain startups, and recently added renowned members like Deloitte Canada, the Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation (DTCC), Fujitsu, telecom provider Bell Canada and gold mining giant Barrick Gold.

Furthermore, the other new founding members include: Capgemini Canada, Cimcorp, the Institute on Governance, KPMG LLP, MKS Switzerland, food retailer Loblaw Companies, interbank network operator Interac and Moog.

Robert B. Carter, Executive Vice President & CIO, FedEx Corporation, stated:“It is critical that we make the most of potentially disruptive technologies like blockchain. As a member of the Blockchain Research Institute, we will be able to truly capitalize on the opportunities created by blockchain to improve the way we do business”.

Executive Chairman, Don Tapscott, emphasized the importance of such an effort when he said: “The rapid growth in our membership is a strong indication of the importance that companies and government agencies are placing on understanding the impact that blockchain technology will have on their business and the world.”