There’s plenty to dissuade people from using reward schemes – whether it’s forgetting one’s card at home or not wanting to pull out a discount coupon in front of a date. With the help of its own cryptocurrency, Liven helps Aussies seamlessly save when they’re dining at their favourite restaurants.

A Russian town of farmers and traders is ditching the ruble in favour of their own cryptocurrency, the 'Kolion'. Insular communities that are penalised by mainstream regulations are increasingly turning to cryptocurrencies to trade independently from centralised institutions.

The bitcoin boom of 2017 brought cryptocurrencies into the mainstream – but they offer more than just a quick buck for tech-savvy investors. From sex workers to vegans to LGBTQ individuals, the underpinning tech is helping marginalised groups break free from traditional financial authorities.

Blockchain, the digital scaffolding behind cryptocurrency bitcoin, has hit critical mass and is being taken seriously by major conglomerates and governments alike. Canvas8 spoke to technology strategist Paul Armstrong to understand how it might make an impact beyond the financial world.