NYU Africa House/CTED “Digital Technologies, Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs), and Economic Development” Conference

Date: April 16th, 2024

Time: 2:30pm-5pm

Overview:

Central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) are experiencing unprecedented levels of interest globally, with more than nine out of ten central banks considering their adoption according to a recent Bank of International Settlements survey. This is no surprise, as CBDCs may offer the potential for more agile monetary policy tools, something which is of great interest to many African countries facing debt distress resulting from pandemic and geopolitical related shocks, as well as recent rate hikes by the US Federal Reserve. Yet, there are also risks involved, given that CBDCs combine the inherent hazards of any currency redesign with the still novel blockchain technology. Join us for a discussion on the future of global banking and economic development, with an emphasis on emerging regions, and particularly Africa, in the era of digitalization. The conference will feature discussions on:

• Introduction: A New Financial Era;

• Programmable Money: Blockchain 2.0 – The Future is Here;

• Digital Money in the Bush; and

• Machine Learning and Large Language Models (LLMs), AI, and ChatGPT: Implications for Financial Management and Economic Development.

Keynote Speaker:

Chairman Armando Manuel, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Angola Sovereign Wealth Fund

Chairman Armando Manuel is a distinguished professional renowned for his contributions to economics, finance, and governance, both nationally and internationally. With a rich and varied career, Mr. Manuel has played pivotal roles in shaping economic policies and fostering strategic leadership, leaving an enduring impact on the global landscape of economic development. As Chairman of FSDEA, Mr. Manuel leverages his extensive expertise in sovereign wealth management to drive sustainable economic development and enhance Angolas economic resilience. In his role as Advisor to the President of the Republic of Angola at the Economic and Social Council, Mr. Manuel provides strategic insights and policy recommendations to the President, contributing significantly to the countrys economic and social development agenda. His dedication to education and research underscores his passion for nurturing talent and fostering intellectual growth.

Sponsored by the CV Starr Center.

©Jolly: Courtesy of NYU Photo Bureau.