Latest news with #Intero
The Print
3 days ago
- Business
- The Print
Global financial system is reaching a major turning point. Why interoperability is important
The buzz around 'tokenization' – the concept of transforming tangible assets like real estate or art into digital tokens on distributed ledgers – isn't just hype anymore; it's hitting its stride. From the halls of financial institutions to the forward-thinking strategies of central banks and even the everyday dynamics of commercial markets, a powerful current is pulling us toward a new frontier of money. Make no mistake: We're not just witnessing an evolution. The global financial system is reaching a major turning point. Yet, while digital assets are speeding ahead, the tech and regulatory frameworks behind them aren't keeping up. Each blockchain still operates with its own governance, standards and compliance assumptions. This fragmentation imposes real-world frictions. Asset transfers become inefficient, liquidity is trapped in isolated ledgers, and regulatory visibility is hampered. Left unchecked, we risk replicating the very bottlenecks that tokenization was meant to solve. Regulatory frameworks remain a patchwork of jurisdiction-specific rules that struggle to adapt to decentralized infrastructures. Without harmonized standards, regulators face significant challenges in monitoring digital financial activity, enforcing compliance and fostering innovation safely. Market participants, in turn, are left navigating inconsistent or unclear expectations, which stifles adoption and increases operational risks. Show Full Article That's where interoperability – the communication between different systems – steps in. Not just as a technical upgrade, but as the connective tissue for regulated and scalable digital economies. Interoperability makes it easier to build compliance, identity checks and cross-border rules directly into how assets move. This will help bring order to a fragmented system and keep everything aligned with public policy. The evolution of blockchain connectivity Early efforts to tackle blockchain fragmentation relied on 'bridges', usually third-party tools, for value transfer between networks. While bridges helped connect ecosystems, most weren't built for scale, security or decentralization. The millions lost in cyberattacks, like the Harmony Bridge Hack in 2022, make that painfully clear. These failures highlight the urgency of moving toward secure, policy-aligned frameworks that enable true interoperability. Today, we're seeing a shift. Next-gen cross-chain messaging protocols don't just shuttle assets; they enable smart contracts on one chain to trigger actions on another, share data seamlessly and move tokens without exposing them to added risk. For institutions operating in high-stakes environments, that's a game-changer. Tokenization needs infrastructure For financial institutions, security isn't optional, it's foundational. And tokenized assets like digital bonds, deposits and funds demand infrastructure that delivers compliance, resilience and auditability by design. That's why protocols like Chainlink's Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol (CCIP) are drawing attention. With security tools like message filtering, rate limits and decentralized oracles, CCIP enables tokenized assets, like standardized Ethereum-based ERC-20s, to move securely across chains such as Ethereum and Hedera. Standards such as ERC-7641 are further streamlining token behaviour across networks, reducing friction for institutional use cases. Major financial institutions are already taking notice. They're not just testing these systems for performance or cost; they're evaluating them for deeper foundations of trust such as audit trails, built-in KYC checks, and data integrity. For example the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) pushes interoperability through Project Nexus, which links domestic payment systems across borders with embedded compliance features. Singapore's central bank is also exploring paths similar to Project Mariana and Project Guardian, both rooted in decentralized frameworks and tokenized finance. Global giants like JPMorgan Chase (JPMC) (via Kinexys, previously known as Onyx) and SWIFT are also testing blockchain integration models that blend trustless execution with regulatory oversight. This month, JPMC completed a public on-chain transaction with the help of Chainlink's CCIP and Ondo. This marks a notable shift, as JPMC had previously operated solely on private blockchain infrastructure. This signals that highly regulated institutions, once hesitant to solely rely on public blockchains, are now embracing public infrastructure without compromising compliance or security, paving the way for faster innovation and digital transformation. These projects also reflect a broader trend toward global coordination on interoperable standards. Whether driven by public-private consortia or multilateral bodies, the aim remains to build a legal and technical foundation for tokenized finance that is inclusive and designed for cross-border use. The rise of hybrid environments One major driver of innovation is the emergence of hybrid sandbox environments. These settings combine permissioned networks' privacy with public blockchains' openness. That mix lets institutions test smart contracts, decentralized apps (DApps), and tokenized assets in real-world scenarios, like digital bond issuance or cross-border settlement. Hybrid sandboxes give banks, asset managers and regulators a controlled environment to test and scale innovations. By enabling real-world trials of digital bonds, tokenized deposits and cross-border settlement mechanisms, these architectures provide a clear path from pilot to production. They offer a safe space for risk modelling and iterative regulatory design, without sacrificing transparency or scalability. The connective tissue for digital prosperity The future of finance demands secure, interoperable infrastructure. Without that foundation, tokenization risks remaining a niche experiment instead of becoming a global transformation. Interoperability is no longer just about making systems communicate. It has become a strategic policy challenge. The success of tokenized finance will depend not only on technical capability, but also on how well it upholds accountability, fairness and systemic integrity. We can build that foundation by aligning cross-chain messaging, open standards like CCIP and ERC 7641, and global regulatory frameworks. This is what enables governments, regulators and institutions to understand, trust and guide digital interactions. That is the groundwork for secure, compliant and production-ready digital finance.
Yahoo
27-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Top Producers of 2024 Honored at Intero's Annual Corporate Awards Event
Two Outstanding Agents also Inducted into the Intero Hall of Fame CUPERTINO, Calif., March 27, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Intero, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate and wholly owned subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc. is pleased to announce recognition of its top individual agents and teams for 2024. Held at the Hotel Valencia at Santana Row, the annual Honors event has become a highly anticipated and coveted tradition. "While we came together with the typical warm-hearted camaraderie amongst Intero friends and family that is 'ordinary,' we celebrated the 'extraordinary' combined power of our people," said Terry Meyer, Co-founder and President of Intero. "Based on 2024 production, 20 individual agents and teams in the Chairman's Circle (top 1%), 65 in the President's Circle (top 5%), and 82 in the Executive's Circle (top 10%) were named to the Intero Honors Awards." In addition to 2024 Production awards, special awards were given to the following individuals and teams: Monica Hanover – Rookie of the Year Award (GCI) Vincent Abecendario – Rookie of the Year Award (Units) Jordan Mott – Top Individual Award (GCI) Jason Lococo – Top Individual Award (Units) The Tse Group – Top Team Award (GCI) The Tse Group – Top Team Award (Units) Eddie Oberoi – Top Intero Foundation Contributor Award Stephanie Hicks – Denise Pearson Service Award Roger Malech – Bob Kaufman Value Award Mia Park – Intero Leadership Award "This year, the prestigious Bob Kaufman Value Award, which is given to the agent who best exemplifies the Intero values, is presented to Roger Malech," said Chris Moles, Vice President and Managing Officer of Intero Silver Creek and Morgan Hill. "As a trusted counselor, leader, mentor, and family man, Roger's impact extends far beyond real estate, exemplifying everything that Intero aspires to represent. And as one of the founding agents of Intero's first office, he has not only shaped the success of his clients throughout his career but also the very foundation of Intero's culture and values." Gino Blefari, CEO of HomeServices of America and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, presented the Leadership Award to Mia Park, Intero's Broker of Record. "Focus and dedication brings opportunities to you, and Mia's career is a testament to her work ethic and ability to develop relationships," said Blefari. "Having known Mia since the early 2000s when she worked with me in developing the curriculum for my real estate courses at De Anza College, and through the years as she led an office, the relocation department and Intero Academy, we are both fortunate, and delighted, to have Mia now taking on the role of Intero's Broker of Record." Joe Velasco and Eddie Oberoi were also inducted into the Intero Hall of Fame, as announced by Blefari. "Congratulations to our agents, teams, and nationally recognized experts for another successful year," concluded Scott Chase, President of Intero. "Your accomplishments demonstrate your top-tier knowledge and abilities, as well as the unique spectrum of services that you are able to offer to your clients; we are not only proud of you, but also proud to support you and your clients in achieving everyone's real estate goals." About Intero Intero, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate and wholly owned subsidiary of HomeServices of America Inc., serves Northern California and Nevada with 16 offices throughout the greater Silicon Valley, San Francisco, Western Nevada, and the Greater Lake Tahoe Region. The Intero Franchise network comprises 23 affiliates located in California, Nevada, Tennessee, and Texas. The company is headquartered in the heart of California's Silicon Valley. Find more information about Intero at Find more information about HomeServices of America at View source version on Contacts Derek Overbey – Intero – A Berkshire Hathaway Affiliatedoverbey@ Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
11-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Intero Announces Promotions of Three Inspirational Female Leaders
New Leadership Roles include Vice President, General Counsel and Broker of Record for Intero CUPERTINO, Calif., March 11, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Intero, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate and wholly owned subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc. is proud to announce the promotions of Heather Victoria, Alexandria ("Alex") Kavalaris and Mia Park. "Strong female leaders are essential to driving more inclusive cultures and the best possible financial performance for Intero," said Terry Meyer, Co-Founder and President of Intero. "For me and Scott Chase, one of our first initiatives as co-presidents was to elevate the roles of Heather Victoria, Intero's Controller, and Alex Kavalaris, Intero's Corporate Counsel." Both Kavalaris and Victoria are now vice presidents and officers of the company. Mia Park is also now Broker of Record for Intero and an officer of HomeServices of America. With more than 30 years of accounting and financial services experience, Victoria has managed the accounting functions for Intero for nearly 23 years, and oversees accounting, relocation, and compliance. In August 2024, she became a Finance Business Partner in HomeServices of America's Shared Success Center, adding regional responsibilities. She is also now working closely with Scott Chase, President of Intero, on strategic partnerships. Victoria has a bachelor's degree in business administration/finance and is a licensed real estate agent. When asked, "What makes Intero special?" Victoria said, "It has to be the people—the business is constantly changing, but the one constant is the incredible people who are part of the organization." Kavalaris joined Intero as Corporate Counsel in June 2022 after working as outside counsel for Intero for many years. Promoted to General Counsel, she will continue to provide legal representation to the company and the nearly 1500 real estate agents associated with Intero and manage the company's overall legal strategy. A frequent lecturer for the Santa Clara County Association of Realtors (SCCAOR) on changes in real estate law, legal requirements for brokers, and avoiding litigation, she also previously served on the Business and Litigation Executive Board for the Santa Clara County Bar Association. Kavalaris is a graduate of Santa Clara University (SCU) School of Law and holds bachelor's degrees in political science and English from SCU. Addressing her new role, Kavalaris said, "It is such a privilege to be part of a leadership team that truly operates as a team. Not only that, but input and ideas are welcome and truly valued. The culture at Intero is for hard work and excellence to be noticed and celebrated." The transition of Intero's Broker of Record (BOR) from Doug Tobin to Mia Park was made late last year. Park joined Intero in 2003 with an interest not only in helping her clients, but also in learning management and serving agents. "I was fortunate to have been coached by Gino Blefari from the beginning," Park said. "He was my instructor at De Anza college where I took the RE Principles class. He advised me to keep my head down, do my work, get some experience—and opportunities would come my way." Park ran the company's largest, most profitable office for close to ten years alongside John Thompson, one of Intero's co-founders. She also managed the relocation department and Intero's famous training center before coming into the Broker of Record position. As a leader of the brokerage, Park is entrusted with managing the day-to-day operations, ensuring smooth transactions, and upholding compliance with state real estate laws. Raised in the Bay Area, Park knows the area like the back of her hand. She also speaks Korean as a second language. Park earned her bachelor's degree from Cal State Hayward and her master's degree from the University of Birmingham. "The guidance and support to agents from Victoria, Kavalaris and Park have been integral to the brokerage's growth and success for the many years they have each been with Intero," added Meyer. "We look forward to their continued contributions towards enhancing the credibility of the brokerage, supporting and teaching our agents, and maintaining confidence with our clients and partners." "It's been said before and bears repeating; for more than 20 years, Intero has been comprised of collaborative leaders who enjoy working together and supporting each other's strategies," said Chase. "Developing, advancing and retaining strong, dynamic women is a powerful business case for our organization that only adds to—and benefits—our ability to shape the future of this industry." About Intero Intero, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate and wholly owned subsidiary of HomeServices of America Inc., serves Northern California and Nevada with 16 offices throughout the greater Silicon Valley, San Francisco, Western Nevada, and the Greater Lake Tahoe Region. The Intero Franchise network comprises 23 affiliates located in California, Nevada, Tennessee, and Texas. The company is headquartered in the heart of California's Silicon Valley. Find more information about Intero at Find more information about HomeServices of America at View source version on Contacts Derek Overbey – Intero – A Berkshire Hathaway Affiliatedoverbey@ Sign in to access your portfolio
