The Outside Context

In Episode 16 of The Outside Context, Kenneth Kou, Head of Venture Lab at Mercy Corps Ventures shares his journey from mathematics to impact investing, exploring how financial inclusion, blockchain technology, and innovative solutions can build a more inclusive and resilient global economy. Jannah Patchay and Elise Soucie Watts ask Ken all about the challenges of financial exclusion, the potential of crypto for good, and the future of societal development.
Key Takeaways
Ken Kou's impact journey from mathematics to social finance
The role of crypto and blockchain in financial inclusion
Challenges and opportunities in emerging markets' financial systems
Chapters
01:07 - Ken Kou's Impact-Oriented Career Path
02:02 - The Thread of Financial Inclusion
03:38 - Mercy Corps Ventures and Humanitarian Investment
05:11 - Venture Capital in Humanitarian and Emerging Markets
08:14 - Persisting Challenges of Financial Exclusion
10:00 - Technical vs Policy Failures in Financial Inclusion
12:10 - Economic Barriers to Private Sector Investment
15:13 - Crypto's Role in Financial Inclusion and Policy
16:51 - Stablecoins and Cross-Border Transfers
19:25 - Cryptocurrency's Potential in Humanitarian Aid and Trade Finance
21:54 - Crypto for Good Fund and Pilot Programs
23:42 - Learnings from Crypto Pilot Projects
28:13 - Trust and Adoption Challenges in Financial Tech
29:30 - Crypto and Climate Resilience Applications
31:25 - Societal Development and Education in Tech Adoption
33:14 - Long-term Impact of Technology on Humanity
35:27 - The Vision of an Inclusive Society
36:37 - Future of Open Borders and Global Mobility
 
Resources
Mercy Corps Ventures

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© 2024 The Outside Context. All rights reserved.

In episode 15 of The Outside Context, co-hosts Jannah Patchay and Elise Soucie Watts welcome Melanie Garson, an Associate Professor in International Security & Conflict Resolution at UCL as well as the Founder of GeopolitIQ, to discuss the intersection of technology and geopolitics. They explore the evolving landscape of tech geopolitics, the challenges of digital sovereignty, and the implications of cyber resilience in modern defence. The conversation dives into the future of warfare, the role of tech companies as geopolitical actors, and the importance of fostering resilience in individuals as we navigate an uncertain technological future.

Key Takeaways
Tech and geopolitics are increasingly intertwined, with technology shaping global power dynamics.
Digital sovereignty poses significant challenges in a globalised world.
Cybersecurity requires collaboration and information sharing among nations.
The rise of AI and autonomous systems is transforming the defence landscape.
Countries must prioritise their digital infrastructure to ensure national security.
Tech companies are gaining power and influence in international relations.
The future of warfare includes information warfare and cyber-attacks.
Building resilience in individuals is crucial for navigating technological advancements.
Optimism exists for the future IF we manage technology responsibly.
 
Chapters
00:00 - Welcoming Melanie Garson
04:01 -Understanding Tech Geopolitics
10:46 - Digital Sovereignty and its Challenges
17:41 - The Evolving Cyber Landscape
22:30 - The Future of Warfare - and Information Warfare
28:45 - Tech Powers and Geopolitical Dynamics
35.12 - Optimism for the Future of Technology

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Follow The Outside Context on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts
Follow Elise Soucie Watts and Jannah Patchay for more insights into the future of technology, civilisation & digital finance
Message us and tell us what you think of this episode, or share your ideas for future episodes - we’d love to hear from you!
Sponsored by Unblocked & Markets Evolution
© 2024 The Outside Context. All rights reserved.

In Episode 14 of The Outside Context Elliot Hentov, chief macro policy strategist at State Street Investment Management, discusses the intersection of AI and macroeconomics. He explores the current state of AI's impact on productivity, investment trends, and the implications for inflation and economic growth. The conversation also shifts into the geopolitical competition surrounding AI dominance, particularly between the US and China, and concludes with reflections on future challenges and opportunities presented by AI.
 
Key Takeaways:
The impact of AI on productivity is still being assessed.
Investment in AI has surged significantly in recent years.
AI has the potential to be deflationary by lowering costs.
The geopolitical race for AI dominance is ongoing and complex.
Countries that innovate in AI will likely benefit economically.
The labour market is experiencing mixed effects from AI adoption.
Increased longevity due to AI advancements poses challenges for society.
The future of AI investment may lead to both successes and failures.

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction to AI and Macro Economics
03:11 - The Current State of AI and Productivity
05:44 - Sectoral Impacts of AI on Employment
08:51 - Investment Trends in AI
12:04 - Macroeconomic Implications of AI Investment
14:53 - Geopolitical Competition in AI
17:52 - Future Challenges and Opportunities with AI

Connect with Us:
Follow The Outside Context on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts
Follow Elise Soucie Watts and Jannah Patchay for more insights into the future of technology, civilisation & digital finance
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Sponsored by Unblocked & Markets Evolution
© 2024 The Outside Context. All rights reserved.

In episode 13 of The Outside Context, Elise and Jannah reflect on their year of podcasting, discussing their experiences and the themes explored in previous episodes. They discuss the TV series 'Alien: Earth', examining it as a social commentary on technology, power and societal structures. The conversation then shifts to the implications of technological advancements, the ethical considerations surrounding them and the potential for inequality. They conclude by identifying AI as a significant ‘outside context’ problem facing civilisation today, while emphasising the importance of critical engagement with technology and its impact on society.

Key Takeaways:
In this episode the podcast celebrates a year of exploration and learning about new technologies and civilisation! Jannah & Elise also explore how:
'Alien Earth' serves as a lens to discuss societal issues.
Technology can empower but also control individuals.
The commodification of life raises ethical concerns. 
Education must adapt to prepare future generations for tech-driven jobs.
Misinformation is a significant challenge in today's society.
AI poses both opportunities and risks for the future.
Sustainability and social equity must align with technological progress.
Critical thinking is essential in an information-rich world; and 
Engagement with diverse perspectives enriches the conversation.

Chapters:
00:00 - Welcome Back and Reflections on the Past Year
01:42 - Exploring 'Alien: Earth' and its key themes
12:19 - Technology, Power, and Control
18:28 - Who Benefits from Technological Advancements?
27:18 - Future Visions and Ethical Considerations
43:54 - Identifying the Biggest Outside Context Problem

Connect with Us:
Follow The Outside Context on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts
Follow Elise Soucie Watts and Jannah Patchay for more insights into the future of technology, civilisation & digital finance
Message us and tell us what you think of this episode, or share your ideas for future episodes - we’d love to hear from you!
Message us and tell us what you think of this episode, or share your ideas for future episodes - we’d love to hear from you!
Sponsored by Unblocked & Markets Evolution
© 2024 The Outside Context. All rights reserved.

In episode 12 of The Outside Context, Haviva Kohl, Senior Program Manager at a Big Tech firm, shares her unique journey from being a sixth-grade teacher to working in tech, through to discussing the implications of AI, disinformation, and the defence of democracy. She emphasises the rapid pace of AI development and its potential impact on jobs and society, while also addressing the challenges of misinformation and the erosion of trust in institutions. The discussion explores the role of big tech in safeguarding democracy and the need for critical thinking and resilience in navigating the information landscape. Ultimately, Haviva expresses cautious optimism for the future, highlighting the importance of education and community engagement in fostering a more informed society.
 
Key takeaways:
Haviva's journey reflects a commitment to empowering individuals and communities.
The pace of AI development is unprecedented and poses unique challenges.
Disinformation threatens the core of Western civilization and trust in institutions. 
Democracies face structural disadvantages in combating disinformation compared to authoritarian regimes. 
Big tech firms have a role in safeguarding democracy but require careful regulation.
Critical thinking is essential in navigating misinformation and disinformation.
Education systems are struggling to keep up with technological advancements.
There is hope for the future through the resilience of younger generations.
Humans have the capacity to adapt and overcome challenges posed by technology.
Building frameworks of trust around information is crucial for society.

Connect with Us:
Follow The Outside Context on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts
Follow Elise Soucie Watts and Jannah Patchay for more insights into the future of technology, civilisation & digital finance
Message us and tell us what you think of this episode, or share your ideas for future episodes - we’d love to hear from you!
Sponsored by Unblocked & Markets Evolution
© 2024 The Outside Context. All rights reserved.