Different from exchange verification, ATM transactions tend to ask only for one’s ID and phone number — and sometimes only one’s phone number. Besides keeping one’s information more secure by asking for less of it, this lower verification threshold could help further democratize finance, allowing entry for those unable to create an exchange, brokerage, or even bank account.Continue Reading

Macroeconomic theory suggests that without any outside intervention, the macroeconomy will self-adjust and return to its long-run state after short-term shocks. The decision for policymakers thus boils down to a cost-benefit analysis taking into account factors like intertemporality and risk tolerance — they can either wait and allow the economy to adjust organically, or sink resources into actively trying to stabilize the economy, taking on the risk of further destabilizing it.Continue Reading