ABSTRACT The period from the mid-1990s to the mid-2000s saw the transformation of information and communication infrastructure. In the same period, TPRC evolved from a narrower focus on conventional telecommunications and information policy to “The Research Conference on Communications, Information, and Internet Policy.” Through the lens of my own interdisciplinary work on Internet policy and intersecting TPRC activity, this retrospective describes an arc of change that began at the 1994 TPRC and continued for about a decade. It combines description, commentary, and reflections on what this history might bode for TPRC as metaverses and Web3 progress from today’s hype to tomorrow’s Internet.
There is a large body of empirical and theoretical literature on the effects of technological change on individuals, labor markets, and overall economic activity. Theories of skill-biased technical change (SBTC) suggest that technology increases the earnings power of skilled workers, but substitutes for less skilled workers. Distributed ledger technologies (DLTs) provide a new context for examining and understanding the impact of technology change on labor, competition, and economic outcomes. This paper explores the theoretical frameworks through which DLTs could enhance economic mobility and provides examples from several areas, including: i) the creation of new jobs and higher value-added jobs, and the modularization of complex tasks; ii) improvements in the way people learn and acquire human capital; iii) increased competition in the marketplace; and iv) more inclusive access to financial services with fewer intermediaries.
Ke Huang, Yi Mu, Fatemeh Rezaeibagha, Xiaosong Zhang
This chapter summarizes all enumerated works to derive some empirical knowledge and generalizes some open problems as future challenges. This chapter concludes as follows: (1). The practical design and analysis of cryptographic schemes for blockchain can address significant problems in blockchain at the algorithmic level. This type of research has received popularity from both global cryptographic community and blockchain developer&s;s community. This research field is the most fast-developing region of all research areas. (2). The intrinsic deficiencies in some traditional cryptographic primitives, like ring signature, IND-CCA2 secure encryption, zero knowledge, etc, prevent the successful application of these primitives in the blockchain. However, tremendous efforts are being made to make these primitives practical and applicable by researchers. Hopefully, we can derive efficient and practically-secure zk-SNARKs or public key schemes as building blocks or overlays for blockchain in the near future.} (3) The formal and rigorous design and analysis of public key cryptographic algorithms matters to the researches and development of blockchain. In cryptographic academia, it is generally recommended to design and analyze cryptographic schemes strictly by practising provable security theory, complexity theory, and proof techniques to validate proposed schemes.
We propose a new way to share licensed spectrum bandwidth capacity in mobile\nnetworks between operators, service providers and consumers using\nblockchain-based smart contracts. We discuss the foundational building blocks\nin the contract as well as various extensions to support more advanced features\nsuch as bulk purchases, future reservations, and various auction mechanisms.\nFurthermore, we demonstrate how the system can be implemented with an\nopen-source, permissioned Enterprise blockchain, Hyperledger Sawtooth. We show\nthat our smart contract implementation can improve blockchain transaction\nperformance, by approximately four orders of magnitude compared to serial\ntransactions and one order of magnitude compared to parallell transactions,\nusing PKI-driven bulk purchases of mobile access grants, paving the way for\nfully automated, efficient, and fine-grained roaming agreements.\n
Blockchain technology has in recent years gained significant appeal worldwide in view of its potential to transform the way we do business. In this regard, one of the most attractive architectural concepts is the consortium Blockchain, where a group of peers, leveraging a common governance, collaborate to define rules and technology development. A consortium Blockchain is highly beneficial in a setting where multiple organisations operate in the same industry, but it is not immune from challenges, including investment, education and data standardisation. This paper provides an analysis of the evolution of Blockchain and Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) technologies and the regulatory approach along with a practical case study on the use of Blockchain in the Italian banking sector. This sector has successfully pioneered the use of Blockchain/DLT with a new application, Spunta Banca DLT, for straight-through processing of interbank reconciliation. Finally, challenges, opportunities and important learnings are discussed.
Gabriele Kulenkampff, Martin Ockenfels, Thomas Plückebaum, Konrad Zoz · 5 authors
According to the EU policy, a future-proof broadband supply for all European households is to be achieved by 2025. There is already a wide range of fibre deployment in Europe. However, the expansion of fibre-based access networks in Europe to date has taken place mainly in large cities. In other areas, the expansion is sluggish or non-existent. As a result, a digital divide between urban and rural areas in Europe is arising. The spatial disparity in fibre roll-out is often justified by market stake holders with significant regional cost differences. In the absence of private-sector investment, government subsidy programmes are often used to improve broadband coverage. Thus, politicians have to deal with the question about the level of investment required and the spatial distribution of subsidy needs. In this paper, we will therefore investigate the question of how significant the heterogeneity in the costs of Very High Capacity (VHC) networks in Germany actually is and whether and how the costs for Very High Capacity (VHC) networks differ between urban and rural regions. In the first part of the paper, we will analyse the regional cost differences of access network areas on the basis of bottom-up calculated investment figures. In the second part of the paper, we establish statistical estimation models that explain these regional cost differences. For this purpose, we use publicly available data. As a reference value for regionally differentiated costs of Very High Capacity (VHC) access networks, we use the results of a detailed bottom-up modelling of an FTTH network carried out for the whole of Germany. The model uses georeferenced household and business location data and optimizes the access network routes along the street network in a bottom-up manner. This model allows us to determine regionally differentiated FTTH investment at the level of access areas. By matching this data with the EU-wide standardized EUROSTAT urban/rural typology classification (predominantly urban, intermediate and predominantly rural), we determine whether and to which extent significant regional cost differences can be found in Germany applying these classifications. One focus is on determining the spread of investment requirements, especially among rural areas. Based on our experience, these areas exhibit the lowest economic viability of a network roll-out and, thus, the highest need for funding. By using statistical indicators, we analyse the suitability of the EUROSTAT classification as a differentiation criterion for regional cost differences. Here, we are particularly interested in whether the areas defined as rural form a sufficiently homogeneous group, and whether they show comparable levels of required investment. Our findings confirm that the differentiation criterion used, namely EUROSTAT urban/rural typology classification, is not satisfactory in measuring regional cost differences. It cannot sufficiently account for a large share of observable differences in fibre-based access network costs. Since it is desirable to answer questions regarding the required funding for selected regions based on publicly available data, we apply regression models to identify alternative influencing factors on the basis of publicly available data, in order to better explain observable regional cost differences. Here, we find that a handful of geographical factors are capable of explaining 95% of the geographical differences in fibre investment requirements, the most relevant being the number of connection lines, the number of households per kilometre of road in built-up areas, the main road length per built-up area and the share of built-up area in relation to overall area. In the last part of the analysis, we examine whether the derived results are also meaningful in a political and regulatory context. Discussions about the necessity of promoting high-speed networks usually take place at the level of local authorities. Therefore, in a final step, we address the question whether the statistical relationships derived from the regression model at the level of access areas also apply at a higher aggregated, i.e. NUTS3, level. In summary, we show that for Germany, classifications based on subscriber density exhibit a significant spread in the investment costs of Very High Capacity (VHC) access networks, which is most pronounced in rural clusters. Statistical analyses using regression models can improve the result if geographical elements of the settlement structure are considered in the analysis.
Benedikt C. Eikmanns, Pascal Mehrwald, Isabell M. Welpe, Philipp Sandner
Similar to mobile operating systems, public blockchain infrastructures, such as Ethereum, represent a platform for the development of software applications. Since 2020, we observe the emergence of a rapidly evolving ecosystem of blockchain-based applications called Decentralized Finance (DeFi), which aspires to challenge traditional finance and associated business models. To explore the economic structures that constitute DeFi, we follow an interdisciplinary approach, supplementing information systems (IS) research with strategic management literature. We apply the theoretical lens of strategic groups to identify platform-specific dimensions and conceptualize DeFi as a hierarchical structured platform economy consisting of four strategic groups, namely 1) Token Management Applications, 2) Protocol Platforms, 3) Aggregation Platforms, and 4) Decentralized Financial Services Solutions. Further, we give a market overview of DeFi applications and discover archetypal attributes of the respective groups. Lastly, we present an integrated framework for the analysis of software-based platform ecosystems and derive areas for future research.
Emanuele Di Pascale, Hamed Ahmadi, Linda Doyle, Irene Macaluso
Neutral Host Small Cell Providers (SCP) represent a key element of the 5G\nvision of ultra-dense mobile networks. However, current business models mostly\nfocus on multi-year agreements for large venues, such as stadiums and hotel\nchains. These business agreements are regulated through binding Service Level\nAgreements (SLAs), which tend to be too cumbersome and costly for smaller scale\nSCPs. As a result, the neutral host model does not scale up to its full\npotential. In this paper, we propose a framework to enable the participation of\nsmall- to medium-sized players in the cellular market as providers offering\nnetwork resources to Mobile Network Operators (MNOs). To this purpose, we\nreview the current and emerging spectrum and technology opportunities that SCPs\ncan use for neutral host deployments. We also propose the use of\nblockchain-enabled smart contracts as a simple and cost-efficient alternative\nto traditional SLAs for small-scale SCPs. To demonstrate this, we describe a\nproof of concept implementation of an Ethereum-based smart contract platform\nfor best-effort service between an SCP and an MNO. Our simulations on potential\nsmart contract-based deployments in city centre Dublin show that the received\nsignal strength in the considered area will increase by an average of $10$\npercent.\n
Alexander Bechtel, Agata Ferreira, Jonas Groß, Philipp Sandner
Distributed ledger technology (DLT) hasDistributed ledger technologies (DLTs) the potential to address long-standing industrial challenges, remove frictions, build trust, and unlock new value across businesses and industries. It enables decentralization, the immutability of data, transparency, and the automation of business processes. Thereby, it creates a multitude of use cases ranging from energy and manufacturing to mobility and logistics. However, a digitized economy based on DLT can flourish only if it does not merely enable the exchange of assets, goods, and services but also the exchange of money. In other words, there is a need for a payment solution that is compatible with DLT-based decentralized networks and enables transactions denominated in euro. This is particulary relevant in the currently evolving geopolitical environment.
The ability to store and share digital data offers benefits that the digitization of information has become a growing trend but has raised questions about the security of personal data. There have been countless high-profile hacks and personal information leaks. Furthermore users don’t (and shouldn’t) always trust an external server of a third party to store their personal data. Blockchain tries to offer a compelling solution to the problem of combining accessibility with privacy and security. Records can be held securely, using end-to-end encryption, and yet openly authenticated so that data can still be trusted as reliable. This project goes deeper in this solution thanks to an innovative idea and development of a new kind of blockchain non fungible token specifically created to store and manage digital identities and sensible data. It has the potential to resolve issues blockchain alone was starting to approach and improves security, privacy and accessibility.
Project Stella studies the possible use of distributed ledger technology (DLT) on financial market infrastructures (FMIs). DLT solutions have the potential to improve the safety and efficiency of existing systems, as shown by research undertaken by central banks and FMIs. Yet, balancing performance and network size with the distance between nodes, as in the case of Stella phase 1, or the flexibility of cross-ledger delivery-versus-payment (DVP) using hashed timelock contracts without connection between ledgers and liquidity efficiency, as in the case of phase 2, remains a challenge. Project Stella studies the possible use of DLT for FMIs, including large-value central bank RTGS systems. Phase 1 implemented the processing logic of the standard liquidity-saving mechanisms in a DLT environment, and the analysis found that an application could meet the performance needs of an RTGS system. There is a trade-off between DLT performance and network size or distance between nodes. DLT solutions have the potential to strengthen resiliency and reliability. In phase 2, the project team proved that cross-ledger DVP could function even without any connection between individual ledgers. Hashed timelock contracts and digital signatures would be used to achieve interoperability between ledgers, while liquidity efficiency and settlement speed may be negatively affected as a result. DLT solutions have the potential to improve safety and efficiency of existing systems adopted at FMIs, yet balancing diverse system requirements demands careful analysis and consideration. As shown by increasing research and proofs-of-concept on DLT undertaken by many central banks1 and securities exchanges in major jurisdictions, there are both opportunities and challenges for further exploration.
We exploit the public good attributes of information and communication technologies (ICTs) and theoretically analyze an aggregate economy of two smart cities in which ICTs are provided in either a decentralized or a centralized manner. We first determine the efficient ICT levels that maximize the aggregate surplus from the provision of ICTs in the two cities. Second, we compute the optimal level of ICT provision in the two cities in a decentralized regime in which spending on the ICTs is financed by a uniform tax on the city residents. Third, we ascertain the optimal level of ICT provision in the two cities in a centralized regime subject to equal provision of ICTs and cost sharing. Fourth, we show that if the two cities have the same preference for ICTs then centralization is preferable to decentralization as long as there is a spillover from the provision of ICTs. Finally, we show that if the two cities have dissimilar preferences for ICTs then centralization is preferable to decentralization as long as the spillover exceeds a certain threshold.
Lakshmi Prasad. Chinthalapalli, Y. V. Lakshmana Rao
The sustainable development of State requires infrastructure and good governance system i.e. Infrastructure, decentralized administration, digitalization, technology based E-governance; infrastructure finance will help the government of Telangana to attain the new heights of economic growth and development. The development process of Telangana is a better design through T-hub, Policy initiatives and peoples participation.
Morten Linnemann Bech, Yuuki Shimizu, Paul T. P. Wong
This feature looks at technology in payment systems. It compares the diffusion of real-time gross settlement (RTGS) systems for wholesale payments with that of faster systems for retail payments (fast payments). RTGS systems emerged in the 1980s and were adopted globally within a span of 30 years. Fast payments followed in the early 2000s, offering instant payments on a 24-hour, seven-day basis. So far, the diffusion of fast payments mirrors that of RTGS, and it is primed to take off. Yet even while adoption of fast payments is under way, the next generation of payment systems, such as those based on distributed ledger technology, is under development.
I. INTRODUCTIONElectric utilities in the United States can no longer rely solely on producing and selling kilowatts to generate revenue. The challenges facing these companies today include: flattening electricity consumption, pressing resiliency and security concerns, and rising demand for distributed resources (DER). In addition to implementing standard system upgrades, utilities are being called to integrate decentralized assets, facilitate customer generation and use options, and invest in smarter grid technology-all while operating more efficiently and with less carbon output.These realities are fundamentally changing the way that utilities will be operated and regulated in the near future. Several states, like New York, Minnesota, Massachusetts, California, and Hawaii, are investigating how to prepare for and guide this evolution. At the forefront of these discussions are important questions over how utility business models and rate structures must change, as well as how tomorrow's electricity system will continue to deliver affordable, reliable, and universal service.Under-examined throughout this process, however, is the concern of how this grid evolution will impact the most vulnerable in our communities: ratepayers. Indeed, these changes raise a host of consumer protection issues from addressing stringent distributed financing rules1 and the landlord- tenant impediment to upgrades,2 to ensuring cost containment as smart metering enables new pricing structures.3 This article analyzes just one aspect of this multifaceted conundrum: how modern rate structure reforms will likely impact ratepayer assistance programs. The goal is to explain this problem and provide a preliminary set of policy solutions for industry members, stakeholders, and regulators. No single policy will provide the answer for most states. However, using some of the suggestions outlined in this article, in combination with an inclusive dialogue, we can better ensure a more just and equitable outcome for consumers in the electricity system of tomorrow.To that end, this article proceeds as follows: Part II describes the chronic energy burden weighing down households, and explores the various federal and state policies in place to lighten this load. Part III follows with a brief discussion of the current set of challenges prompting grid modernization efforts, and describes what implications those efforts present for ratepayers. With this background as context, Part IV lays out a series of policy approaches that can help regulators and reformers address these concerns and meet their intended objective: modernizing the electricity system while ensuring affordable service, universal access, and equal participation for all ratepayers.II. THE ENERGY BURDEN FACING LOW-INCOME HOUSEHOLDS AND THE CURRENT STATE OF ASSISTANCE PROGRAMSTo better understand the proposed grid reforms outlined in Part IV, it is necessary to first set out the status quo for households in the United States today. This Part discusses the primary metric by which affordability is often measured by utilities and regulators: the burden. The second subsection addresses federal and state-level policies and programs to help alleviate this burden.A. What Is the Energy Burden?According to the most recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau, 46.7 million people were in poverty in the United States in 2014-nearly 14.8% of the population. 4 But those numbers tell only part of the story. Generally, although each state and utility-run assistance program defines low-income differently, most peg eligibility to certain thresholds at or up to 200% of the federal poverty level (FPL)-which brings the total of people potentially eligible for assistance programs in the United States to around 106 million.5In the context of assistance, many programs look to not only a person's income in relation to the FPL but also his or her total energy burden- that is, the percentage of a customer's income spent on energy. …
This case study is one of ten international case studies developed by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), in association with the Korean Research Institute for Human Settlements (KRIHS), for the cities of Anyang, Medellin, Namyangju, Orlando, Pangyo, Rio de Janeiro, Santander, Singapore, Songdo, and Tel Aviv. At the IDB, the Competitiveness and Innovation Division (CTI), the Fiscal and Municipal Management Division (FMM), and the Emerging and Sustainable Cities Initiative (ESCI) coordinated the study. This project was part of technical cooperation ME-T1254, financed by the Knowledge Partnership Korean Fund for Technology and Innovation of the Republic of Korea. At KRIHS, the National Infrastructure Research Division coordinated the project and the Global Development Partnership Center (GDPC) provided the funding. In recent years, Tel Aviv has developed a unique bottom-up approach toward its Smart City project, focusing its efforts on direct resident-oriented services rather than expensive, large-scale infrastructure. This case study explains Tel Aviv's strategy, demonstrating how a high level of smart urban services was achieved using decentralized, low-cost methods. The report provides details on the approach, such as its reliance on the local startup ecosystem, its creation of services using open municipal databanks and public-private partnerships, and its emphasis on lightweight services that interact directly with residents. The case study analyzes the strengths and weaknesses of Tel Aviv's approach, discussing the technologies, processes, and strategies that can be used to implement a cost-effective smart city initiative.
The purpose of local governments is to facilitate the well-being of communities and regions. Through the provision of different public goods and services local governments have the mission to provide security and stable conditions for individuals and firms by ensuring the necessary public infrastructure and amenities for their activities in the region, such as water supply, roads, waste disposal, parks, schools, and other public functions decentralized in the case of federal systems, among others. Many of these public goods and services are ICT-enabled, and therefore are included within the local digital government strategy. This is the context of digital government initiatives in municipal governments. The critical question for any local government in terms of digital government initiatives is how should they be provided and financed? Assessing this question of whether these ICT-enabled goods and services related to digital government might be more likely to be provided and funded, this article propose a model that embraces the concepts of public good and externalities from the economic perspective in order to provide a useful basis for developing a framework for financing digital government. This article describes a proposal for this framework based on these concepts and applies it in the case of several digital government initiatives undertaken by the City of Aguascalientes, Mexico. This framework applies to local as well as state and national levels of governments. Implications for research and practice are discussed.