Enterprise Cayman Events

Fin Talks - DeFi & Digital Assets

Written by Author | Mar 7, 2025 5:51:55 PM

Decoding the Myths, Trust, and Financial Accountability

Tuesday, 8 April 2025 • Signal House, off Fairbanks Road • 8:30am Breakfast • 9:00am Discussion 

As Decentralised Finance (DeFi) and digital assets continue to evolve, the paradox of trust in a "trustless" system remains a critical issue. While blockchain technology ensures transparency and immutability, real-world adoption still relies on custodians, auditors, and regulators. Raising fundamental questions about decentralisation, ownership, and financial accountability.

Join us for an insightful breakfast discussion where financial and compliance experts will explore:
  • Are Crypto Networks More Centralised Than We Think?

    How validator concentration, protocol governance, and liquidity hubs impact decentralisation.

    How digital asset accounting classifies blockchain holdings, equity or a stake in ownership? What are the implications for financial reporting?

  • The Role of Custodians & Regulators: Who Owns the Digital Asset Rulebook?

    If DeFi is trustless, why do custodians play such a crucial role?

    How do legal jurisdictions (CIMA regulations, IFRS, and GAAP) clash with DeFi’s borderless nature?

  • Auditing & Assurance in Digital Assets: Are We Ready?

    Verifying the existence, ownership, and security of digital assets.

    How auditors can ensure proper safeguarding controls at custodians.

    The evolving landscape of blockchain-based financial reporting.

Register by filling in the form below ↓

 Guest Speakers
  • Dale Russell CA(SA), Founder & Director

    Dale Russell, CA(SA), is the Founder and Director of TrustReserve Solutions and Moore Blockchain & Digital Assets JHB, driving innovation in technology and redefining professional services in the digital assets industry. An entrepreneurial leader and winner of the 2024 SAICA Top 35 Under 35 – Future-Fit Innovator Award, Dale specializes in delivering tailored digital asset services, empowering businesses and individuals to harness the potential of blockchain technology.

    A globally recognized thought leader and speaker, he focuses on blockchain’s impact on financial services and the future of digital assets, shaping global standards for assurance, compliance, and transparency. His journey in the blockchain space began seven years ago when he co-founded Etherbridge (https://www.etherbridge.co/). After qualifying as a CA(SA), he founded Moore Blockchain & Digital Assets and TrustReserve Solutions, dedicated to advancing blockchain-driven financial and assurance solutions.

    Beyond business, Dale is deeply committed to thought leadership and education in blockchain. He hosts "First Out the Block," a TrustReserve podcast that simplifies blockchain concepts and explores their industry-wide impact, fostering an accessible learning environment.

    A strong advocate for trust, privacy, and transparency, Dale leads his team in delivering firm-agnostic, specialized assurance solutions tailored to diverse client needs. He frequently speaks on key industry developments, regulatory updates, and the paradox of trust in blockchain, bridging the gap between traditional finance and digital innovation.

    His commitment to social impact extends beyond the professional sphere—he actively participates in fundraising initiatives, including cycling in the Absa Cape Epic to support charitable causes, backed by partnerships with organizations like Absa.

    With a unique blend of technical expertise, industry insight, and a passion for positive change, Dale is a sought-after speaker at blockchain conferences, where he continues to inspire and educate audiences on blockchain’s transformative potential.

  • Murray Evans CA(SA), Head of Operations

    Murray Evans is the Head of Operations at TrustReserve Solutions Limited. With a fusion of financial expertise and enthusiasm for emerging technologies, Murray strives to drive forward TrustReserve's mission of revolutionising the financial industry. As an advocate for innovation and sustainable growth, Murray is not only focused on empowering individuals and businesses in the digital economy but also committed to making a positive impact on the world.

    TrustReserve Solutions Limited is not just a workplace for Murray; it's a platform for innovation, collaboration, and growth. Together with our talented team, we're shaping the future of finance and exploring new frontiers in blockchain and digital assets.

    In addition to his professional endeavours, Murray is passionate about conservation and actively supports environmental initiatives. Murray will be participating this year in the ABSA Cape Epic, a gruelling mountain bike race in South Africa, to raise funds and awareness for charitable causes close to his heart.

 

Event Partners