In this episode of Unblocking the Chain, Drew Bradford and Michael Prendiville are joined by Kate Cooper, CEO of OKX Australia, to unpack the newly released Digital Finance report estimating a $24 billion annual opportunity for Australia through blockchain, tokenisation and digital assets. The discussion explores how emerging technologies like AI, stablecoins and blockchain infrastructure are converging, why Australia risks capturing only a fraction of the potential gains, and what policy, regulatory and infrastructure changes are needed to stay competitive globally. Kate also discusses OKX’s role in building digital finance infrastructure in Australia and the importance of sovereign digital capability as the global financial system evolves.
Timecodes
(01:00) Kate Cooper’s background and how she moved from banking innovation into leading OKX Australia.(03:20) The crypto “S-curve” and how blockchain, stablecoins and AI are accelerating adoption together.(08:10) The new report estimating $24B annual productivity gains from digital finance in Australia.(10:50) Where the economic gains come from: better markets, payments and tokenised assets.(21:30) Strategic digital asset reserves and the importance of sovereign digital finance infrastructure.(26:30) The role of exchanges like OKX as infrastructure nodes in the evolving digital financial system.
Podcast Hosts:
Michael Prendiville (co-host), Co-founder, JellyC and Founder, TAF Capital BIO
Drew Bradford, (co-host), CEO, Macropod and Chairman, JellyC BIO
Unblocking the Chain is brought to you by JellyC and Macropod.
Macropod is the issuer of the Australian dollar-backed stablecoin AUDM. Through the thoughtful application of emerging technology, Macropod empowers businesses and asset exchanges to facilitate fast and cost-effective transactions securely. With over 100 years of combined global experience, Macropod's team has a wealth of financial markets, governance, and technology knowledge to support their customers’ and partners’ successful transition to digital assets.
www.macropod.com
Podcast Produced by:
https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Opinions expressed are solely those of the hosts and the guests. Please do your own research or consult a professional before making investment decisions.
