Airfox using blockchain technology to replace banks in emerging markets

The American startup Airfox represents a new opportunity in banking, especially for those without bank accounts in emerging markets. The service allows users to make purchases and transfer money while bypassing current banking systems. Airfox works by using blockchain technology via an application that converts a cryptocurrency to a regular currency. Airfox services have already launched in Brazil, and Brazilian users can use it to make purchases, transfer money and pay for utilities as well as for microloans. In Brazil, Airfox accounts can be replenished via the more than 40,000 Boleto Bancario terminals in the country.

Airfox is also developing its own credit scoring system that uses data within the application to determine creditworthiness. The company plans on launching in other markets in Latin America, Asia and Africa in the future.