CertiK, a leading blockchain security firm, has teamed up with Alibaba Cloud, the cloud computing arm of Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba, to enhance blockchain development in Asia. This strategic collaboration aims to leverage Alibaba Cloud’s robust infrastructure to support CertiK’s comprehensive suite of blockchain applications.
CertiK’s decision to migrate its cloud infrastructure in Asia to Alibaba Cloud marks a significant step in its mission to enhance blockchain security and efficiency. With Alibaba Cloud’s advanced resources, CertiK will host and manage a diverse range of 12 blockchain applications. This move aligns with CertiK’s long-standing belief in the transformative power of blockchain technology, as emphasized by Ronghui Gu, co-founder of CertiK.
The partnership between CertiK and Alibaba Cloud began in May 2023, when CertiK’s security suite became available on Alibaba Cloud’s Blockchain as a Service (BaaS) platform. This integration has allowed CertiK’s developers to perform critical functions such as code reviews, risk assessments, team identity verification, and background checks using Alibaba’s robust cloud infrastructure.
Initially, CertiK integrated its smart contract auditing and layer 1 blockchain auditing services with Alibaba Cloud. The company also announced plans to introduce additional services like penetration testing and CertiK’s Skynet due diligence tool, further enhancing the security and reliability of blockchain applications.
This collaboration is not Alibaba Cloud’s first foray into the blockchain sector. Previously, Alibaba Cloud supported Avalanche blockchain’s Node-as-a-Service initiatives, enabling developers to launch new validator nodes on Alibaba’s cloud infrastructure. The additional computing, storage, and distribution resources provided by Alibaba Cloud have been invaluable for developers managing high resource demands, particularly during peak usage periods.
Beyond blockchain, there is a growing focus on artificial intelligence (AI) among Chinese entrepreneurs and investors. Several Chinese startups specializing in generative AI, such as Zhipu AI, Moonshot AI, MiniMax, and 01.ai, have recently surpassed the $1 billion valuation mark. These startups are not only attracting significant investment but also actively recruiting talent to drive AI innovation.
Alibaba’s own payment subsidiary, Alipay, has integrated AI features into its app, utilizing image recognition technology to help users detect early signs of balding. This AI-driven service demonstrates Alibaba’s commitment to incorporating cutting-edge technology into its product offerings.
In its latest financial stability report, the People’s Bank of China (PBoC) addressed the ongoing challenges of cryptocurrency regulation and decentralized finance. The central bank called for international cooperation to effectively regulate the crypto industry. Despite the 2021 crackdown on cryptocurrency transactions and mining, China remains a significant player in the crypto-mining sector.
The Chinese government is also set to revise its Anti-Money-Laundering (AML) laws to address the growing risks associated with virtual assets. This draft amendment, which was discussed at a State Council meeting chaired by Premier Li Qiang, will soon be reviewed by the national legislature.
CertiK’s partnership with Alibaba Cloud represents a significant advancement in blockchain technology and security in Asia. By leveraging Alibaba’s powerful cloud infrastructure, CertiK is well-positioned to drive innovation and enhance the reliability of blockchain applications. This collaboration, alongside China’s growing focus on AI and evolving regulatory landscape, underscores the dynamic and rapidly evolving nature of the tech industry in the region.
