AS THE WEF WARMS UP TO CRYPTO, ITS HEAD OF BLOCKCHAIN TALKS EMPOWERMENT

Last updated: June 19, 2025, 19:22 | Written by: Vitalik Buterin

The World Economic Forum (WEF), traditionally associated with global economic policy and public-private cooperation, is increasingly turning its attention to the world of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology.This evolving perspective signifies a potentially seismic shift in how these digital assets are perceived and integrated into the global financial landscape.The growing interest is spearheaded, in part, by the WEF's head of blockchain and digital assets, Sheila Warren, who emphasizes the empowering potential of this technology. Armstrong agreed. We need to make crypto easier to use. There's these addresses that don't look readable. They're random strings of numbers and letters. That's being replaced by the Ethereum Name Service so it's a human-readable name. Eventually I think we're going to have people using crypto who don't even know it's crypto underneath.Her vision extends beyond mere technological innovation, focusing on the potential for financial inclusion, democratization of access, and the creation of new economic opportunities for individuals and communities worldwide.This article delves into the WEF's growing engagement with crypto, explores Warren's perspectives on empowerment, and examines the potential implications of this shift for the future of finance.From discussions at Davos to emerging regulatory frameworks, the WEF's involvement could significantly shape the trajectory of the digital asset revolution.

The WEF's Embrace of Blockchain and Digital Assets

For years, the WEF has played a pivotal role in shaping global policy across various sectors. As the WEF Warms Up to Crypto, Its Head of Blockchain Talks EmpowermentSource: CointelegraphPublished on Its Head of Blockchain Talks EmpowermentNow, cryptocurrency and blockchain are firmly on their agenda. From possible regulatory shifts in the US to the uneven adoption of central bank digital currencies around the world, the prospects for digital assets are shThis embrace is not just about acknowledging the existence of these technologies; it's about actively exploring how they can be leveraged to address pressing global challenges.The WEF focuses on public-private partnerships, recognizing that effective policy development in this space requires collaboration between governments, businesses, and the technology community.

The WEF's initiative on Blockchain and Digital Assets aims to provide a neutral platform for these stakeholders to come together, share insights, and develop frameworks that foster responsible innovation.This includes:

Research and analysis: Conducting studies on the challenges and opportunities presented by crypto-assets, such as the report ""Pathways to the Regulation of Crypto-Assets.""
Dialogue and collaboration: Facilitating discussions between policymakers, industry leaders, and academics to promote a shared understanding of the technology and its implications.
Pilot projects and use cases: Exploring practical applications of blockchain technology in areas like supply chain management, digital identity, and financial inclusion.

Sheila Warren's Vision: Empowerment Through Decentralization

Sheila Warren, the Head of Data, Blockchain, and Digital Assets and the Deputy Head of the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution at the WEF, is a driving force behind the organization's engagement with crypto.Her perspective centers on the empowering potential of blockchain technology to create a more equitable and inclusive financial system.

Warren's vision encompasses several key areas:

Financial Inclusion: Blockchain-based solutions can provide access to financial services for the unbanked and underbanked populations, particularly in developing countries.
Transparency and Accountability: Blockchain can enhance transparency and accountability in various sectors, including supply chains, governance, and charitable giving.
Data Ownership and Control: Individuals can gain greater control over their data through decentralized identity solutions and blockchain-based data management platforms.
New Economic Opportunities: Blockchain can enable new business models and economic opportunities, such as decentralized finance (DeFi) and tokenized assets.

Warren's work underscores the idea that blockchain is not just about creating new technologies; it's about building a more just and equitable world.It is her leadership and vision that is helping move the WEF further into this arena.

Overcoming Barriers to Crypto Adoption

One of the key challenges to broader crypto adoption is usability.As Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong pointed out, the current user experience can be daunting for newcomers. Learn more about the Blockchain and Digital Assets initiative at the World Economic ForumComplex addresses and technical jargon can create significant barriers to entry.

Solutions like the Ethereum Name Service (ENS) are addressing this issue by replacing complex addresses with human-readable names. The World Economic Forum (WEF) has released a significant study on the challenges and opportunities surrounding international cryptocurrency policy. The report, titled Pathways to the Regulation of Crypto-Assets, asserts that the present-day regulatory landscape is too disjointed to effectively safeguard markets and investors.This makes it easier for users to send and receive crypto, and it also helps to improve the overall user experience.

Furthermore, advancements in wallet technology and user interface design are making crypto more accessible to a wider audience.The goal is to reach a point where people can use crypto without even realizing they are interacting with blockchain technology.

The 2025 World Economic Forum: Bitcoin and National Reserves

The 2025 World Economic Forum in Davos became a focal point for discussions surrounding the integration of Bitcoin into national reserves.This idea gained traction amidst a shifting geopolitical landscape and growing recognition of Bitcoin as a potential hedge against inflation and currency devaluation.

The inauguration of a pro-crypto president in the United States further fueled these discussions. As the WEF Warms Up to Crypto, Its Head of Blockchain Talks EmpowermentThis event led to speculation about the potential for the US to adopt a more favorable regulatory stance towards Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.Brian Armstrong, for example, voiced his opinion that a Bitcoin reserve could be the new gold standard for nations.

Donald Trump and the Pro-Crypto Shift

Donald Trump's victory in the November 2025 presidential election marked a turning point for the cryptocurrency market.His campaign pledges to establish a strategic Bitcoin reserve and promote a more innovation-friendly regulatory environment resonated with the crypto community.

This political shift contributed to a significant increase in Bitcoin trading volume, which doubled to US$19 trillion in 2025, according to data from Digital Desk. Cointelegraph talked to the WEF s head of blockchain several months before the 50th edition of the event As the WEF Warms Up to Crypto, Its Head of Blockchain Talks Empowerment EcosystemStandard Chartered Bank, led by Head of Digital Assets Research Geoffrey Kendrick, maintains a bullish outlook, forecasting Bitcoin to reach US$200,000 by the end of 2025.

The Regulatory Landscape: Navigating Complexity

One of the biggest challenges facing the crypto industry is the lack of a clear and consistent regulatory framework. Related: As the WEF Warms Up to Crypto, Its Head of Blockchain Talks Empowerment The list of female blockchain startup leaders turns out to be quite long. Here are just a few examples.The WEF has recognized this issue and has published a report, ""Pathways to the Regulation of Crypto-Assets,"" which highlights the need for a more coordinated approach to regulation.

The report argues that the current regulatory landscape is too disjointed to effectively safeguard markets and investors.It calls for greater collaboration between countries to develop common standards and frameworks.The uneven adoption of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) around the world adds another layer of complexity to the regulatory landscape.

Key Considerations for Crypto Regulation

Effective crypto regulation should strike a balance between fostering innovation and protecting consumers.Some key considerations include:

Defining the scope of regulation: Clearly defining which activities and assets fall under the regulatory umbrella.
Establishing licensing and registration requirements: Ensuring that crypto businesses operate within a legal framework.
Implementing anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) measures: Preventing the use of crypto for illicit activities.
Protecting consumers from fraud and market manipulation: Establishing rules to ensure fair and transparent trading practices.
Promoting cross-border cooperation: Coordinating regulatory efforts across different jurisdictions.

Navigating this complex regulatory landscape is crucial for the long-term growth and stability of the cryptocurrency market.

Empowering Women in Blockchain

While the tech world has traditionally been male-dominated, the blockchain space is seeing a growing number of women taking on leadership roles. Interview As the WEF Warms Up to Crypto, Its Head of Blockchain Talks Empowerment . Cointelegraph talked to the WEF s head of blockchain several months before the 50th edition of the eventFrom founders of blockchain startups to developers and researchers, women are making significant contributions to the industry. The 2025 World Economic Forum in Davos emerged as a focal point for debates about integrating Bitcoin into US national reserves. This idea gained momentum following the inauguration of pro-crypto President Donald Trump on January 20. Brian Armstrong Believes a Bitcoin Reserve is the New Gold StandardSheila Warren stands as an example of this growing presence, and hopefully, the numbers continue to trend upward.

Promoting diversity and inclusion is essential for creating a more innovative and equitable blockchain ecosystem. The World Economic Forum focuses on public-private cooperation to shape policy on a range of issues, including cryptocurrency and blockchain. BeinCrypto spoke to Sheila Warren, the Head of Data, Blockchain, and Digital Assets and the Deputy Head of the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution.Encouraging more women to enter the field can bring fresh perspectives and ideas to the table.

Examples of Female Blockchain Leaders

The list of female blockchain startup leaders is extensive and growing.Here are just a few examples:

Elizabeth Stark: Co-founder and CEO of Lightning Labs, a company developing the Lightning Network for faster and cheaper Bitcoin transactions.
Meltem Demirors: Chief Strategy Officer of CoinShares, a digital asset investment firm.
Ria Bhutoria: Partner at Circle Ventures.

These women, and many others, are paving the way for future generations of female blockchain leaders.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Crypto and the WEF

The World Economic Forum's increasing engagement with cryptocurrency and blockchain technology signals a significant shift in the perception and acceptance of these digital assets. The 50th World Economic Forum is over, and Cointelegraph was happy to cover the most important highlights from the event and reflect on the role of crypto in Davos discussions. The person who knows more than anyone about the potential that our favorite technology could have on the WEF community is its head of blockchain and decentralized ledgers.Sheila Warren's emphasis on empowerment highlights the potential for blockchain to create a more inclusive and equitable financial system.

As the industry continues to evolve, collaboration between policymakers, businesses, and the technology community will be crucial for fostering responsible innovation and addressing the challenges facing the crypto market. Standard Chartered Bank maintains a bullish outlook, with Head of Digital Assets Research Geoffrey Kendrick forecasting Bitcoin to reach US$200,000 by end-2025. The cryptocurrency market's trajectory has been influenced by Donald Trump 's presidential election victory in November 2025, particularly his campaign pledges to establish a strategicThe WEF is poised to play a key role in facilitating this collaboration and shaping the future of digital assets.

Key Takeaways

The WEF is increasingly focused on cryptocurrency and blockchain technology, recognizing their potential to address global challenges.
Sheila Warren emphasizes the empowering potential of blockchain to create a more inclusive and equitable financial system.
Usability and regulatory clarity are key challenges to broader crypto adoption.
The 2025 World Economic Forum saw discussions about integrating Bitcoin into national reserves.
Donald Trump's pro-crypto stance has influenced the cryptocurrency market.
Promoting diversity and inclusion is essential for creating a more innovative and equitable blockchain ecosystem.

The journey towards mainstream adoption of crypto is ongoing, but the involvement of institutions like the WEF and leaders like Sheila Warren provides a strong foundation for a future where digital assets play a significant role in the global economy.The push toward empowerment and increased access for all will continue to be a focus as this growth happens.