The Outside Context

In episode 19, Will Lovell, former head of future technology at the Bank of England, joins our co-hosts Jannah and Elise to unpack how a career that started at the BBC led into three decades inside central banking. 

He explains what central banks actually do day to day, why technology has become inseparable from financial stability, and how new tools like AI, tokenisation and Central Bank Digital Currencies are changing the risk landscape. 

The show discusses how the Bank of England experimented with distributed ledgers and built regulatory pathways for innovation, and why even a spacefaring future would still need some kind of central trusted unit of account.

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In episode 18, we explore the future of space, examine space-based solar power, and look at the UK’s role in space innovation with Mark Garnier MP. Discover how space is the next frontier for human progress and what it means for policy, technology, and inspiration.

Key Topics

• Space as the next iteration of human progress
• Space-based solar power and its potential
• UK government and policy on space
• Investment and finance in space industry
• Inspiration and education in space exploration

Soundbites “Space is the next iteration of human progress.” “Exploring space is the next step in human exploration.” “A holistic strategy is essential for UK’s space leadership.”

Chapters 

00:00 - Introduction to Space Politics and Policy 

04:26 - A Philosophical Perspective on Space 

09:18 - Space-Based Solar Power: A Resource for the Future 

23:09 - Investment and Policy in Space Infrastructure 

35:01 - Inspiration and the Future of Space Careers 

44:22 - The Economic and Existential Future of Humanity in Space

Note: at the time of recording, space policy sat within the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology. This has since moved into the Department for Business and Trade.

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• Follow Elise Soucie Watts and Jannah Patchay for more insights into the future of technology, civilisation & digital finance

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© 2024 The Outside Context. All rights reserved.

In this conversation, Jannah Patchay and Simran Singh discuss the evolving landscape of AI regulation, focusing on the risks, governance frameworks and challenges posed by accountability and tech sovereignty. Simran shares her journey into the field of AI and regulation, highlighting the importance of understanding AI-related risks, including black swan events and the complexities of accountability in AI systems. They explore the implications of concentration risks in technology and the need for international cooperation to address regulatory fragmentation. The discussion culminates in a vision for future governance frameworks that prioritise ethical considerations and user-centered design.

Takeaways

• Simran's journey into AI regulation began at the UK Financial Conduct Authority  in 2020.
• AI risks are complex and often analysed locally, but they materialise systemically.
• Policymakers should consider fragmentation as a significant risk in AI governance.
• Black swan events in AI can lead to catastrophic consequences, if not addressed.
• AI can be a tool for detecting and managing risks effectively.
• Accountability in AI is shifting from prediction to preparation for failures.
• Sovereignty in AI should not lead to isolation but rather to shared insights.
• Regulatory frameworks must evolve to address the complexities of AI.
• User-centered design is crucial in AI governance to ensure ethical outcomes.
• No governance framework will be perfect from the start; it must adapt over time.

Chapters

00:00 - Journey into AI and Regulation

05:08 - Understanding AI Risks and Governance

10:00 - Black Swan Events and Regulatory Challenges

15:13 - Accountability in AI Systems

19:51 - Tech Sovereignty and Concentration Risks

25:10 - Regulatory Fragmentation and International Cooperation

29:49 - Future Governance Frameworks for AI

Further Resources:

https://www.theguardian.com/news/2026/jun/18/can-ecosystems-malfunction

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Future-Humanity-Terraforming-Interstellar-Immortality/dp/0241304849

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Seeds-Time-J-Wyndham/dp/B000GRK03E

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Sponsored by Unblocked & Markets Evolution
© 2024 The Outside Context. All rights reserved.

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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• 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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© 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

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 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

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 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.

In episode 11 of The Outside Context, Rob Hadick, General Partner at Dragonfly, shares his journey from Wall Street to venture capital, discussing the evolving landscape of investment, particularly in the realms of blockchain and decentralised finance. He highlights the differences between traditional finance and the emerging tech-driven paradigms, emphasising the importance of networks and the changing role of VCs in a tighter funding environment. The discussion also shifts into geopolitical implications, the future of decentralisation, and the potential shifts in the global economic order, ultimately pondering the long-term future of venture capital in a rapidly changing world.

Key Takeaways

• Rob Hadick transitioned from Wall Street to venture capital, focusing on tech's disruption of finance.
• The investment landscape is shifting towards AI, blockchain, and biotech as key areas for growth.
• Venture capital is seeing a hollowing out of the middle, with mega funds dominating the market. 
• Decentralisation is becoming less of a priority for VCs, who are focusing on business viability.
• The future of VC may involve broader asset management strategies beyond traditional investments.
• Geopolitical tensions are influencing investment strategies and capital flows globally.
• The rise of digital currencies and stablecoins is reshaping the financial landscape.
• Investors are increasingly able to bootstrap companies without significant capital.
• The future economic order may see a consolidation of currencies and a shift in global power dynamics.
• Long-term, capital formation will remain essential, even in a post-scarcity world.

Connect with Us:

• Follow The Outside Context on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts
• Connect with Rob Hadick on X @HadickM
• 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 10 of The Outside Context, Seema Khinda Johnson, Co-Founder and COO of Nuggets, shares her journey in the tech industry and discusses the critical importance of digital identity in today's world. She emphasises the need for self-sovereign identity, the business case for digital identity solutions, and the challenges of inclusivity in identity verification and why "data is the new oil". Seema also addresses the potential pitfalls in the digital identity space and the urgency of establishing a robust identity framework to combat the growing authenticity crisis exacerbated by AI.

Key takeaways

• Digital identity is crucial for preventing data breaches.
• Self-sovereign identity gives individuals control over their data.
• Businesses need a compelling case to adopt digital identity solutions.
• The convenience of digital identity is essential for user adoption.
• Inclusivity in identity verification is a significant challenge.
• AI is changing the landscape of identity verification.
• Interoperability between identity standards is necessary.
• The technology for inclusive identity verification exists.
• Digital identity is critical infrastructure for the future.

Connect with Us:

• Follow The Outside Context on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts
• Connect with Seema Khinda Johnson on LinkedIn
• Follow Elise Soucie Watts and Jannah Patchay for more insights into the future of technology and finance

Join the Conversation: What excites or concerns you most about the future of digital identity and the importance of individual control over your data? Drop us a message on social media or leave a comment!

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Sponsored by Unblocked & Markets Evolution
© 2024 The Outside Context. All rights reserved.