Blockchain Leaders Insights

• CryptoCracker: Simplifying Portfolio Optimisation

  In this episode of Blockchain Leaders Insights, Paul Hearns is joined by Fran Meggs, the co-founder and CEO of CryptoCracker, for a wide-ranging and refreshingly honest conversation about the realities of building a crypto startup and making blockchain accessible to everyday users. Fran’s journey into the crypto space is anything but typical—he didn’t come from a finance background or dive in chasing hype. His story began during the COVID-19 lockdowns, when curiosity and extra time led him down the rabbit hole of digital assets. As someone with a background in technology, product design, and API integration, Fran quickly realised how complicated and exclusive the crypto world was—and how much potential there was to simplify it.CryptoCracker was born out of that insight. It's a platform built for people who are curious about crypto but don’t want to become full-time traders just to understand it. Fran talks about the vision behind the platform: creating a safe, easy-to-use, and approachable entry point for people who want to explore crypto without the technical jargon, steep learning curves, or risky speculation. He opens up about the challenges they’ve faced as a startup, including delays in banking, navigating advertising restrictions, and overcoming the skepticism that still surrounds the industry.What really stands out in this conversation is Fran’s balanced approach. He embraces regulation—not as a burden, but as a necessary step toward mainstream adoption. He discusses the importance of partnerships, both technical and commercial, and how building a network of trust has been critical to CryptoCracker’s growth. He also shares lessons learned from launching a B2C platform, working with referral networks, and refining their message to connect with real users—not just those looking to “get rich quick.”Fran’s vision for the next few years is clear: bring crypto to the masses by making it consumable, familiar, and integrated into everyday life. If you’ve ever felt like crypto is too complex or not meant for people like you, this episode will change your mind. Tune in to hear how CryptoCracker is helping reshape the future of crypto—one simple, secure step at a time._______________Available on the Blockchain Ireland website: https://www.blockchainireland.ie/podcasts/_______________Host: Paul Hearns - Co-chair of the Events and Comms Working Grouphttps://www.linkedin.com/in/paulhearns/ Guest: Fran Meggs - Cofounder & CEOhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/franmeggs/https://crypto-cracker.com/https://www.linkedin.com/company/cryptocracker/_______________About Blockchain IrelandBlockchain Ireland is an initiative aimed at promoting and enhancing Ireland's position as a global hub for blockchain technology. It was launched by the Irish Blockchain Expert Group (IBEG), led by IDA Ireland, and includes a collaboration of Irish-based organisations.The main goals of Blockchain Ireland are to serve as a central source of information on the growing blockchain, crypto and Web3 ecosystem, to support the development of blockchain technology in Ireland, and to create awareness of industry developments both nationally and internationally.Follow us:https://www.blockchainireland.ie/https://www.linkedin.com/company/blockchain-irelandhttps://twitter.com/blockchainireland/https://instagram.com/blockchainireland/https://tiktok.com/@blockchainireland/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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  31:34
• VARA: Dubai Deep Dive - Regulation, Oversight, and Open For Business

  In this episode of Blockchain Leaders Insights, host Paul Hearns from Blockchain Ireland is joined by Paul Boots, Senior Director and Head of Sector Development at VARA (Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority) in Dubai, along with Pearse Ryan, Head of the Legal and Regulatory Working Group at Blockchain Ireland. Together, they explore how Dubai is setting a new global benchmark for virtual asset regulation through a uniquely flexible and innovation-driven approach.Paul Boots shares his journey from early involvement in Dubai’s diamond and fintech sectors to now playing a pivotal role in developing the region’s virtual asset ecosystem. He provides a behind-the-scenes look at how VARA was designed specifically for the digital asset space, making it one of the few regulators worldwide not rooted in traditional finance. This fresh start has allowed VARA to build a regulatory framework that is agile, business-friendly, and aligned with the fast-paced nature of blockchain and crypto innovation.The discussion also explores the strategic reasons why Dubai is becoming a preferred destination for blockchain and crypto companies. From its pro-business tax policies and advanced infrastructure to lifestyle factors that attract global talent, Dubai is more than a launchpad—it's a long-term base for growth. Paul explains how VARA not only regulates but actively supports companies entering the market, offering guidance through licensing, partnerships with free zones, and even helping firms navigate banking and insurance.A major highlight is VARA’s real-world pilot programs, which enable licensed VASPs to test innovative services in live environments with defined guardrails. This model offers more flexibility and market insight than traditional sandboxes, helping to shape regulation through hands-on collaboration.Whether you're a founder looking to scale globally, a policymaker exploring regulatory innovation, or just interested in how crypto and blockchain are evolving, this episode delivers valuable insights into the future of virtual asset governance—and why Dubai is at the forefront._______________Available on the Blockchain Ireland website: https://www.blockchainireland.ie/podcasts/_______________Host: Paul Hearns - Co-chair of the Events and Comms Working Group, Blockchain Irelandhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/paulhearns/ Host: Pearse Ryan - Chair of the Legal & Regulatory Working Group, Blockchain Irelandhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/pearse-ryan-33474111/Guest: Paul Boots - Senior Director, Head of Sector Development at VARAhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-boots-34749b1/https://www.vara.aehttps://www.linkedin.com/company/varadubai/https://www.linkedin.com/company/blockdaemon/_______________About Blockchain IrelandBlockchain Ireland is an initiative aimed at promoting and enhancing Ireland's position as a global hub for blockchain technology. It was launched by the Irish Blockchain Expert Group (IBEG), led by IDA Ireland, and includes a collaboration of Irish-based organisations.The main goals of Blockchain Ireland are to serve as a central source of information on the growing blockchain, crypto and Web3 ecosystem, to support the development of blockchain technology in Ireland, and to create awareness of industry developments both nationally and internationally.Follow us:https://www.blockchainireland.ie/https://www.linkedin.com/company/blockchain-irelandhttps://twitter.com/blockchainireland/https://instagram.com/blockchainireland/https://tiktok.com/@blockchainireland/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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  26:23
• CBRE: Blockchain and Real Estate – Challenges, Opportunities, and Value

  In this thought-provoking episode of the Blockchain Leaders Insights Series, host Paul Hearns sits down with Myles Clark, Managing Director of CBRE Ireland, to explore the groundbreaking potential of blockchain technology in the real estate sector. Myles brings a unique perspective, blending his background in investment banking with his experience leading a global real estate firm, to provide valuable insights into how blockchain is poised to reshape the industry.The conversation begins with Myles sharing his journey into the world of blockchain, sparked by a pivotal 2015 meeting with Dan Morehead, founder of Pantera Capital. From that moment, Myles recognised blockchain’s ability to address inefficiencies in traditional financial and real estate systems. He explains how tokenisation—the process of converting real estate assets into digital tokens—could revolutionise property ownership, making it more accessible and affordable for individuals. Imagine gradually purchasing fractional shares of a property over time, eliminating the daunting financial barriers of homeownership.While tokenisation remains a long-term vision, Myles highlights practical applications already emerging, such as tokenised credit notes linked to real estate. These innovations provide liquidity and funding solutions, offering a glimpse into blockchain’s immediate potential. Myles also discusses the challenges blockchain faces in gaining acceptance within the real estate industry. Practitioners are pragmatic, and blockchain must prove it can deliver faster, cheaper, and more efficient processes to gain widespread adoption.The discussion delves into real-world examples, such as blockchain’s use in land registries, where transparency and immutability can streamline property transactions. Myles emphasizes the need for collaboration across stakeholders and the digitisation of legacy systems to unlock blockchain’s full potential.Looking ahead, Myles identifies funding and financing as areas where blockchain will likely achieve early success. Platforms like Truly and Figure Markets are already leveraging blockchain to create tokenised liquidity pools, solving key challenges for developers and property owners._______________Available on the Blockchain Ireland website: https://www.blockchainireland.ie/podcasts/_______________Host: Paul Hearns - Co-chair of the Events and Comms Working Group, Blockchain Irelandhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/paulhearns/ Guest: Myles Clark - Managing Director of CBRE Irelandhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/myles-clarke-74544287/https://www.cbre.ie/https://www.linkedin.com/company/cbre-ireland/_______________About Blockchain IrelandBlockchain Ireland is an initiative aimed at promoting and enhancing Ireland's position as a global hub for blockchain technology. It was launched by the Irish Blockchain Expert Group (IBEG), led by IDA Ireland, and includes a collaboration of Irish-based organisations.The main goals of Blockchain Ireland are to serve as a central source of information on the growing blockchain, crypto and Web3 ecosystem, to support the development of blockchain technology in Ireland, and to create awareness of industry developments both nationally and internationally.Follow us:https://www.blockchainireland.ie/https://www.linkedin.com/company/blockchain-irelandhttps://twitter.com/blockchainireland/https://instagram.com/blockchainireland/https://tiktok.com/@blockchainireland/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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  25:46
• KPMG Law: The Start-Ups Path to CASP Authorisation

  In this episode of the Blockchain Ireland Leaders Insights Series, host Paul Hearns engages with two seasoned experts to explore one of the most critical challenges facing startups in the blockchain and crypto industries: navigating the path to Crypto Asset Service Provider (CASP) authorization under the EU’s Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA) regulation. Joining the conversation are Christopher Martin, a regulatory lawyer and partner at KPMG Law, and Neil Fleming, Executive Director of Fortuna Solutions, who brings practical insights from the perspective of a startup navigating the regulatory maze.The episode begins with an exploration of how MiCA has reshaped the regulatory landscape for crypto businesses, providing a framework to ensure market stability, consumer protection, and operational resilience. Christopher Martin offers a detailed breakdown of the legal and compliance requirements for CASP authorization, explaining the Central Bank of Ireland’s expectations and the broader implications of operating in a highly regulated environment. From safeguarding client assets to ensuring transparency and operational continuity, Christopher shares invaluable insights into what regulators look for in applications and how businesses can align with these expectations.Neil Fleming shares his firsthand experience from Fortuna Solutions, one of the few Irish-based companies to secure Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) registration. He offers a candid view of the practical challenges startups face, from assembling a capable team with compliance expertise to adapting their business models to meet stringent regulatory demands. Neil’s insights emphasize the importance of planning, adaptability, and viewing regulation as a strategic advantage rather than a barrier to entry.Throughout the discussion, the conversation highlights the broader ecosystem of regulations impacting crypto startups, including the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) and anti-money laundering (AML) requirements. Christopher and Neil stress the importance of understanding how these intersecting frameworks influence the compliance journey and why startups must approach them holistically.Available on the Blockchain Ireland website: https://www.blockchainireland.ie/podcasts/Host: Paul Hearns - Co-chair of the Events and Comms Working Group, Blockchain Irelandhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/paulhearns/ Christopher Martin, Partner, KPMG Law Irelandhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-martin/https://kpmglaw.ie/https://www.linkedin.com/company/kpmg-law-ireland/Neil Fleming, Executive Director of Fortuna Solutionshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/neil-fleming-a82715/_______________About Blockchain IrelandBlockchain Ireland is an initiative aimed at promoting and enhancing Ireland's position as a global hub for blockchain technology. It was launched by the Irish Blockchain Expert Group (IBEG), led by IDA Ireland, and includes a collaboration of Irish-based organizations.The main goals of Blockchain Ireland are to serve as a central source of information on the growing blockchain, crypto and Web3 ecosystem, to support the development of blockchain technology in Ireland, and to create awareness of industry developments both nationally and internationally.Follow us:https://www.blockchainireland.ie/https://www.linkedin.com/company/blockchain-irelandhttps://twitter.com/blockchainireland/https://instagram.com/blockchainireland/https://tiktok.com/@blockchainireland/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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  45:19
• William Fry: From VASP to CASP – Understanding MiCAR Authorisations

  In this episode of the Blockchain Leaders Insights series, Paul Hearns sits down with Louise McNabola, a partner in the Financial Regulation Unit at William Fry, to explore the fast-changing world of financial and crypto regulation. As the European Union introduces the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCAR), businesses are facing a new set of challenges—and opportunities—when it comes to securing authorisation to operate in the EU. Louise shares her invaluable expertise on navigating this evolving landscape, focusing on the transition from Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) registration to Crypto-Asset Service Provider (CASP) authorisation.Louise walks us through why Ireland has become a leading destination for authorisation, thanks to its robust regulatory framework, skilled talent pool, and reputation for credibility. She explains how firms can leverage Ireland’s strengths while preparing for the rigorous demands of the Central Bank of Ireland. From early engagement with the regulator to building a strong governance structure, Louise provides clear, actionable steps to help businesses succeed.We delve into the common pitfalls firms encounter, such as rushing the application process or making changes to business plans midway, and Louise highlights how proper preparation can make all the difference. She also sheds light on the importance of appointing key personnel early on, ensuring that the "hearts and minds" of the business are firmly rooted in Ireland to meet regulatory expectations.With deadlines approaching and significant changes like the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) on the horizon, this episode offers practical advice for navigating the complexities of the regulatory process while planning for the future. Louise’s insights are invaluable for anyone operating in the crypto space or considering Ireland as their base for EU operations.Whether you’re a seasoned player in the blockchain industry or just starting out, this episode is your go-to guide for understanding the Irish authorisation process and the opportunities it unlocks. Tune in to gain clarity, avoid common mistakes, and set your business up for long-term success in the EU’s thriving digital asset landscape._______________Available on the Blockchain Ireland website: https://www.blockchainireland.ie/podcasts/_______________Host: Paul Hearns - Co-chair of the Events and Comms Working Grouphttps://www.linkedin.com/in/lory-kehoe/ Guest: Louise McNabola - Partner, William Fryhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/louise-mcnabola-2a10875a/https://www.williamfry.com/https://www.linkedin.com/company/william-fry/_______________About Blockchain IrelandBlockchain Ireland is an initiative aimed at promoting and enhancing Ireland's position as a global hub for blockchain technology. It was launched by the Irish Blockchain Expert Group (IBEG), led by IDA Ireland, and includes a collaboration of Irish-based organisations.The main goals of Blockchain Ireland are to serve as a central source of information on the growing blockchain, crypto and Web3 ecosystem, to support the development of blockchain technology in Ireland, and to create awareness of industry developments both nationally and internationally.Follow us:https://www.blockchainireland.ie/https://www.linkedin.com/company/blockchain-irelandhttps://twitter.com/blockchainireland/https://instagram.com/blockchainireland/https://tiktok.com/@blockchainireland/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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  28:38

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