A blockchain is a data structure that makes it possible to create a digital ledger of transactions and share it among a distributed network of computers. It uses cryptography to allow each participant on the network to manipulate the ledger in a secure way without the need for a central authority (source: Steven Norton – WJS blog) .

Here a list a cool resources:

1. IBM Blockchain Garage: IBM Blockchain has joined the Hyperledger Project to evolve and improve upon earlier forms of blockchain. Instead of having a blockchain that is reliant on the exchange of cryptocurrencies with anonymous users on a public network (e.g. Bitcoin), a blockchain for business provides a permissioned network, with known identities, without the need for cryptocurrencies.
2. SkuChain: technology based on the ‘Collaborative Commerce’ vision where trade partners can interact in a friction ­free manner , gain deep visibility into their supply chain so they can make smart forecasting decisions, and not be constrained by cash flow helping them compete. Skuchain applies the cryptographic principles developed in the Bitcoin network to security and visibility for the global supply chain. As goods travel from manufacturers to distributors to consumers, the crucial electronic information of what the item is and where it came from becomes disconnected from the SKU itself. A blockchain offers a universal, secure ledger by which SKUs can attest to digitally to their orgins and attributes. Skuchain is building a system of next generation identifiers in the form of both barcodes and RFID tags to digitally secure the transfer of goods across the entire global economy. While most anti counterfeiting systems rely on copy restistant labels, holograms etc., skuchain relies on the uncopyable nature of a blockchain ledger to solve the problem of supply chain integrity Skuchain’s system will provide cryptographic proof of each SKU’s origin, supply chain than can be verified all the way to the point of consumption.
3. Z/Yen: Z/Yen is the City of London’s leading commercial think-tank. Z/Yen was founded in 1994 to promote societal advance through better finance and technology. In 2015 Z/Yen launched Distributed Futures, a senior forum dedicated to technology and disruption, for subjects such as mutual distributed ledgers (aka blockchain technology) and artificial intelligence. Current project: MetroGnomo – an open-source experimental timestamping service based on Z/Yen’s ChainZy mutual distributed ledger technology. MetroGnomo’s replicated authoritative immutable ledger provides proof that a given piece of information existed, or event happened, at a given time. The provision of impartial timing information and unique identifiers enables improved coordination, cooperation, integration and dispute resolution between and within firms. More information…
4. Gemalto: is an international digital security company providing software applications, secure personal devices such as smart cardsand tokens, and managed services. It is the world’s largest manufacturer of SIM cards.

HyperLedger London Chapter meet-up – to keep up to date with the latest market trends.