CryptoCann™ Report: IBM to set up blockchain project directory; Willie Nelson to headline Beto O’Rourke’s rally

The Crypto Report

Blockchain, the technology underlying cryptocurrency, has been more of interest to some companies than the digital assets themselves.

IBM Corp (NYSE:IBM) has partnered with enterprise blockchain firm Hacera to create a directory of blockchain projects for interested companies to look through, according to a CoinDesk report.

Known as the Unbounded Registry, it will list decentralized platforms build on blockchain networks.

“We realized from the start that you cannot do blockchain on your own; you need a vibrant community and ecosystem of like-minded innovators who share the vision of helping to transform the way companies conduct business in the global economy,” said Vice President of IBM Blockchain Jerry Cuomo in a blog post.

READ: Bitcoin vs Altcoins: Why does bitcoin dominate the crypto market?

The name of the network will be accompanied by a synopsis of the project and recent news, giving companies the option to contact the project team.

Blockchain has extended its reach past the tech industry, tangling itself in a variety of sectors.

Hong Kong jewelry company Chow Tai Fook is teaming up with the Gemological Institute of America to develop a diamond authentication app built on blockchain technology, as per a CCN report.

The process will track the stones from the time they’re mined from the ground to when they reach the consumer.

The goal is for the technology to boost consumer confidence by assuring them of the origin and authenticity while also combatting the theft and illegal sourcing of diamonds.

The Cann Report

The US is slowly inching its way to progress in the cannabis space.

The US House Judiciary Committee passed a bill to expand marijuana research opportunities, increasing cannabis production in the process, as per a Forbes report.

The Medical Cannabis Research Act, sponsored by Representative Matt Gaetz (R-FL), requires the federal government to issue more licenses to grow marijuana that would, in turn, be used in scientific studies.

Some drama ensued regarding a provision of the legislation that would prohibit anyone with a “conviction for a felony or drug-related misdemeanor” from working with cannabis researchers.

“While there are many varying opinions on the issue of marijuana, one thing we all can agree on is that we need qualified researchers to study the science to determine if there are any potential medicinal benefits to chemicals derived from cannabis,” said House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-VA) in a statement.

READ: Cronos Group to launch second cannabis product in Canada called ‘Spinach’

In other political news, Democratic Senate nominee Beto O’Rourke is welcoming a famous face to his rally in Austin.

Country legend Willie Nelson will be headlining pro-cannabis candidate O’Rourke’s rally, as per a High Times report.

“My wife Annie and I have met and spoken with Beto and we share his concern for the direction things are headed. Beto embodies what is special about Texas, an energy and an integrity that is completely genuine,” said Nelson in a statement.

Some members of Nelson’s conservative fan base have taken to social media to express their objections, but Nelson said he stands by his decision.

The singer has his own brand of cannabis called Willie’s Reserve, available in several states including California and Colorado.

Story by ProactiveInvestors