The Chamber of Digital Commerce (CDC), a blockchain advocacy group, announced today that four new companies have joined its ranks; software giant Microsoft; USAA, a financial services company catering to US military servicemen; smart contract blockchain developer Symbiont; blockchain service provider Bloq.

Each company will be donating $50,000 to the CDC. This fee gives each company a seat on CDC’s Executive Committee.

In April, the CDC launched the Global Blockchain Forum – an organization backed by four international blockchain associations – to help steer the course of the regulatory approach towards the blockchain space within the US and on the international stage.

CDC Founder and President, Perianne Boring, told CoinDesk that the addition of USAA and Microsoft will go a long way in helping the CDC’s interactions with regulators and lawmakers in Washington.

USAA first showed interest in digital currency commerce with their Coinbase pilot program

, which initially allowed a certain portion of their clients to view their bitcoin balances on Coinbase. In March of this year, the program was expanded to the entire USAA client base.

Boring explained that USAA has shown a very open attitude towards digital currencies, “We see USAA as one of the most innovative and forward-thinking banks in this space.” she said.

Co-founder of Bloq, Matt Roszack, made it clear the blockchain technology will not be able to make a big impact if the dialogue between industry leaders and regulators is not open:

“Through my experience in working in technology and finance, engagement with public policymakers is critical for industry growth and success,”

 

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