Futurists, Crypto Kings, and AI Experts Unite in Yerevan — Is the Next Silicon Valley Hidden in Armenia?

The most anticipated digital forum in Armenia returned this week with even greater momentum. The third annual Doing Digital Forum (DDF) opened its doors in Yerevan, under the theme “The Future of Money: Economic Impact.” The event brought together global leaders, futurists, crypto pioneers, banking professionals, technologists, and policymakers to explore the evolving world of finance—both globally and here in Armenia.

Hosted by the Doing Digital Platform, this year’s forum marked a pivotal moment in the country’s growing digital transformation. The Armenian Report, as a proud media partner, covered the event in-depth, capturing exclusive insights from speakers and participants shaping the future of finance.

In an interview with The Armenian Report, Tatevik Simonyan, Founder of Doing Digital Platform and Co-founder of SPRING PR, emphasized the broader vision behind DDF:

“Doing Digital Forum is not just a conference; it’s a platform that brings together every sector in Armenia on one stage. We discuss the challenges, the innovations we need, and where we are headed. This year’s topic—the future of money—is not just about finance, but about society and humanity,” she said.

“We want to be disruptive, so we always invite keynote speakers who are futurists. This year it’s Gerd Leonhard, who is not just a futurist but also a humanist. We are discussing how money will change, but also how people and societies will change with it.”

One of the standout voices this year was Gerd Leonhard, internationally renowned futurist and bestselling author of Technology vs. Humanity. It was his first visit to Armenia, and he shared his impressions and advice:

“This is my first time here, and I’m very excited. Armenia reminds me of Switzerland in some ways—small country, but with big ideas,” said Leonhard.

“To succeed in the digital future, Armenia must create a strong country brand. The character of a nation—its values, its people, its mission—attracts talent and investment. Technology itself is neutral; it’s how we use it that matters. It can be heaven or hell, and the choice is ours.”

Henri Arslanian, global crypto leader and co-founder of Nine Blocks Capital Management, called this moment a historic turning point:

“This is the most exciting time in the history of money,” he told The Armenian Report.

“Our children and grandchildren will look back and ask what we were doing during this digital shift. The United States is making major changes in crypto policy, and Armenia should take advantage of these geopolitical shifts to strengthen its position in the digital economy.”

Bringing a lighter but insightful take to the event was Narek Margaryan, Armenian comedian and screenwriter, who hosted DDF25:

“Future money is in the cloud. Banks keep telling people that, and people are okay with it. No one questions that their life savings are invisible. But in the end, it’s not much different from paper money—it only works if we all believe in it,” Margaryan joked.

“This forum is like watching rock stars perform—but instead of guitars, they bring data and vision.”

The event also highlighted Armenia’s growing ambition to become a “network nation” in the global digital space. Hayk Margarian, Executive Board Member of the International Chamber of Commerce, emphasized:

“The topic of the future of money is very relevant today. As digital currencies rise globally, Armenia must stay aligned with global innovation trends. We must integrate digital finance into our national agenda.”

From the private sector, Matias Undurraga Breitling, Enterprise Technologist at Amazon Web Services, spoke about the moment we are living in:

“Digital commerce is being reinvented. Just like the internet 20 years ago, we’re at a stage where bold investments in new technology will define future success. It’s still unknown, but we’re here to embrace it.”

Doing Digital Forum isn’t just a one-day event—it’s part of a long-term mission. As Tatevik Simonyan explained:

“Our core goal is to educate the public and prepare them for the changes ahead. Technology is reshaping everything—from economies to everyday life. We want Armenia to be at the forefront of these conversations.”

As financial systems around the world continue to transform, Armenia is positioning itself to be not just a participant, but a leader. By creating a platform for open dialogue, innovation, and education, Doing Digital Forum 2025 reinforced that the “future of money” is not just a trend—but a challenge Armenia is ready to meet.

As one speaker put it:

“The future is not something we enter—it’s something we create.”