When I first started tracking the print (and publishing) industry, the paper industry was already in trouble.
Data security is a rising concern worldwide, and the start of 2017 has certainly not allayed those fears.
Bitcoin has been widely speculated as the next big thing in currency, or as a failed experiment that is nearing its end. However, that changed in the last few days, when it experienced a resurgence – one so strong, that it is at par with the price of gold!
For the first time, the price of bitcoin is the same as the price of gold
Source: Coindesk.com
Bitcoin has experienced its ups and downs, but worryingly, a 20% fall!
Or, one leading bitcoin exchange, Mt Gox, losing confidence and shutting down.
Part of the resurgence is attributed to changing political climate worldwide. The removal of bank notes in India, and the economic turmoil in Venezuela may have driven a spike. But, whether it continues to grow, remains to be seen. Some analysts say even if it did, it won’t matter.
In the grand scale of things, the contribution Bitcoin makes to the economy, is but a drop in the ocean. Further, its future could be adversely impacted by the rise of Chinese companies that seem to have taken control of the market.
Through astute investments, and foresight, 70% of the transactions are now handled through four Chinese companies. With such volumes, these companies have veto rights, and alarmingly, could trigger a centralization of policies. And, this could impact the very foundation of a decentralized, independent currency.
The next year should be interesting.
Spotify now has 50 million subscribers, and is undoubtedly the largest music streaming service worldwide – Spotify now has a significant lead over Google, Apple Music and SoundCloud. The music industry, now, has a workable revenue model and something to build off of.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Spotify Hits 50 Million Paid Subscribers, Lifting Music Industry
This might seem like vindication for the company, and perhaps the industry. A little over six months ago, there were speculations about the company’s financial conditions.
Cash-Strapped Spotify Is Desperately Seeking a $500 Million Loan
Or, correlations between Spotify’s financial troubles, and the music industry as a whole.
Spotify’s Financial Results Reinforce Just How Broken the Music Business Is
There’s a lot of great news out there, and a lot of it is thought provoking.