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Although blockchain is often misunderstood, and despite the fact that many of its applications outside the realm of cryptocurrencies remain theoretical, companies of all kinds are rushing to explore what this new technology has to offer. Countless start-ups aim to engrave a small part of the blockchain space with revolutionary applications of distributed ledger technology. Even banks and other companies not previously directly involved in the technology space are exploring the possibilities of the blockchain. Perhaps it is not surprising, then, that some of the most ardent blockchain innovators are important technological operations. These companies have a direct interest and experience in space, and they also have the enormous resources available to dedicate staff, time and money to the creation of new blockchain applications.
Recently, a report by iPR Daily indicated that two technology giants in particular, have taken the initiative when it comes to the development of blockchain, at least as regards the number of patents related to the blockchain that have ensured . Alibaba (BABA) and IBM (IBM) are in the neck, each of which already holds nearly 100 patents.
Alibaba and IBM
Alibaba had 90 blockchain-related patents at the end of August, while IBM was just behind with a total of 89, according to the report, cited by Coin Telegraph. Mastercard arrived in third place with 80 documents. Demonstrating that banks are becoming increasingly involved in blockchain, Bank of America took fourth place in the list with 53 patents.
Geographic Interest
While the report used information on Asia, the EU, America and elsewhere in the world, it seems clear that most of the blockchain patents are concentrated in China. In 2017, for example, Chinese companies submitted 225 applications for blockchain patents, while American companies only deposited 91 of them. All this despite the fact that the Chinese government has blocked cryptocurrencies, even though blockchain technology has spread there . The head of Alibaba, Jack Ma, exemplifies this position as a business leader; he previously expressed skepticism about digital currencies and also discussed his great optimism for blockchain as a technology.
IBM can take the first position at any time. The brave computer manufacturer recently signed a $ 740 million 5-year agreement with the Australian government to integrate the blockchain, among other technologies, into security and data automation.
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