In terms of real-world applications, much of the blockchain activity is in fintech and among startups. But earlier this week, two global companies discussed how they plan to use blockchain. As Techcrunch reported, Rakuten is planning a new cryptocurrency called Rakuten Coin — built on blockchain technology and the company’s existing loyalty program, Rakuten Super Points — which it plans to use to encourage loyalty services globally and to help customers to buy goods across different Rakuten services and markets.
In an interview with Fox Business, Starbucks Executive Chairman Howard Schultz hinted that Starbucks is heading toward accepting a virtual currency as payment in the future. He said, “I think blockchain technology is probably the rails in which an integrated app at Starbucks will be sitting on top of,” the former CEO of the coffee giant said.
