CryptoCann™ Report: IBM and Maersk add 94 companies to blockchain platform; Lyft offers fare credits to combat driving while high

The Crypto Report

IBM Corp (NYSE:IBM) and Danish shipping giant Maersk have signed up nearly 100 companies for its global trade blockchain platform.

Using IBM Blockchain technology, the platform known as TradeLens allows multiple trading partners to have secure access to real-time shipping data.

“Our work with Maersk and other enterprises in the shipping ecosystem has shown that blockchain can be used to form a strong, connected network in which all members gain by sharing important data and that together we can transform a vital part of how global trade is conducted,” said Bridget van Kralingen, senior vice president of IBM global industries, solutions and blockchain, in the company’s press release.

So far, 94 companies have signed up including port and terminal operators like PSA Singapore and International Container Terminal Services Inc as well as customs authorities in the Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Australia and Peru.

READ: Bitcoin and cryptos hit as SEC stalls on ETF decision

In cryptocurrency news, another major sports league is joining the crypto craze.

Sports memorabilia collectors now have a modern alternative to baseball cards. A new collectible token known as Player Tokens has been launched in partnership with Major League Baseball Players Association.

“Our intent is to deliver a simple, fun collectible, accessible to all fans and collectors globally, whether crypto veterans or novices,” said Player Tokens CEO Kush Parikh in a press release.

The crypto collectibles will feature 73 MLB players from all 30 major league teams. Collectors can buy token packs of five to six Player Tokens, priced between US$5.99 and US$8.49.

“We believe Player Tokens is taking a great step forward, modernizing the fan and collector experience while paying homage to the rich history of baseball collectibles,” said Evan Kaplan, MLBPA’s director of licensing and business development.

The Cann Report

Sales of recreational marijuana are expected to begin soon in Massachusetts and officials are trying to get ahead of the potential problem of drivers under the influence.

State officials are teaming up with ride-sharing service Lyft to launch a sober driving campaign for the state’s cannabis consumers, according to a High Times report.

“It’s not uncommon to hear people say, ‘I drive better when I’m high,’ said Jennifer Queally, undersecretary of the Office of Public Safety and Security, in an interview with the High Times. “If you are high or stoned, you are not a safe driver. And you are a danger to everyone on the road.”

Lyft has pledged US$50,000 in fares to encourage impaired drivers to request a car instead. Any Lyft user who pledges on social media to not drive while high will receive US$4.20 in fare credits, an ode to the number synonymous with marijuana.

READ: CryptoCann™ Report: Bitcoin ETF dreams dashed again; Medical cannabis company Vireo Health to go public

In uplifting news, a pair of Denver chefs are inviting guests to a charity dinner paired with cannabis.

Chefs John Harry and Clay Inscoe both have fathers diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and decided to whip up an eight-course feast to benefit the Parkinson’s Association of the Rockies.

Named the Highbrow Dinner, the menu will feature interesting dishes like kombu-citrus cured scallop sashimi, pine ice cream, watermelon carpaccio and chocolate lavender-honeycomb.

The food will feature terpenes, the taste aspect of marijuana, but guests can add THC to their food on request. Diners can purchase a ticket for US$150.

Story by ProactiveInvestors