Absa Group's Rob Downes on the Blockchain Use Cases Transforming Banking

In this episode of Chief Digital Heroes, Matthew speaks with Rob Downes, Head of Salesforce Platform and Digital Assets, CIB Africa at Absa Group. They discuss the catalyst that led Absa Group to experiment with blockchain, what use cases they're using blockchain for, and how the regulatory environment is becoming more supportive of blockchain. They also talk about top skills for digital leaders and the biggest challenges to digital transformation.

 

Topics discussed:

 

• The two catalysts that led Absa Group to start experimenting with blockchain.
• How the regulatory landscape in South Africa is becoming more supportive of blockchain experimentation.
• Where Absa Group currently stands on its digital transformation and where it still needs to go.
• How they're experimenting with generative AI, especially in development work.
• The key skills for a digital leader, like being comfortable with disruption and change.
• Why the biggest challenge to blockchain adoption is overcoming people's fear of change.
• The different blockchain use cases that can transform banking, including stablecoins, tokenization, and investments.