Cathy Hackl, explores the metaverse's rapid development, the merging of our digital and physical realities and how AI is reshaping our interactions. This episode is sponsored by Consensus 2024  Now Available for pre-order |  Michael Casey’s New Book with Frank H. McCourt, their forthcoming book: Our Biggest Fight: Reclaiming Liberty, Humanity, and Dignity in the Digital Age In this week's installment of "Money Reimagined," hosts Michael Casey and Sheila Warren welcome Cathy Hackl, a leading authority in emerging tech, global executive and tech visionary. Together, they explore the metaverse's rapid development, highlighting the buzz around its potential and how AI and spatial computing are reshaping our interactions. Hackl discusses the merging of our digital and physical realities, emphasizing the critical importance of hardware for spatial computing and voicing concerns over possible compromises. Then, the conversation takes a turn, diving into how cloud computing is booming and we're seeing a swing back to decentralization. It's fascinating to think about how crucial hardware, software, connectivity, and data really are in driving tech forward. We also delve into the realms of NFTs and blockchain, discussing the challenging task of harmonizing state laws with federal regulations. Wrapping up, we touch on the exciting potential web3 and blockchain hold for revolutionizing computing as we know it. Takeaways | The metaverse has experienced a cycle of hype and buzz, but the concept and development of virtual shared experiences in both virtual and physical spaces are still ongoing. Spatial computing, an advanced form of 3D-centric computing, uses AI, computer vision, and extended reality to seamlessly blend virtual content into the physical world. The expansion of computing and the evolution of the internet into the physical world will transform human-to-human communication and human-computer interaction. The development of AI that can see and understand the physical world is crucial for the advancement of spatial computing and the metaverse. While spatial computing offers convenience and augmentation of reality, there are concerns about privacy, virtual air rights, and the potential negative impact of constant data collection. Cloud computing has led to the centralization of the internet, with major platforms dominating the landscape. The expansion of computing and data in the metaverse requires a combination of hardware, software, connectivity, and data management. Enforcement and regulation of the metaverse pose significant challenges, and there is a need for technical understanding and collaboration between policymakers and experts. State laws are being enacted to address potential harms, but federal regulation is necessary to create a cohesive framework. Web3 and blockchain technologies offer opportunities to create solutions for age gating, provenance, and other challenges in the metaverse. Links |  Cathy Hackl  Crypto Council for Innovation  CoinDesk.com - Consensus is where experts convene to talk about the ideas shaping our digital future. Join developers, investors, founders, brands, policymakers and more in Austin, Texas from May 29-31. The tenth annual Consensus is curated by CoinDesk to feature the industry’s most sought-after speakers, unparalleled networking opportunities and unforgettable experiences. Take 15% off registration with the code MRP15.  Register now at consensus.coindesk.com - Money Reimagined has been produced and edited by senior producer Michele Musso and our executive producer is Jared Schwartz. Our theme song is “The News Tonight ” by Shimmer.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.