[lucb1e]

> could we do something more time-precise using the Ethereum blockchain and a smart contract?

I think only if you want a transaction to move forward at a certain time, and are confident that a majority of network members will not conspire to alter your smart contract.

Hiding information in a smart contract: I don't know of a way that could be done, but I'm not up-to-date on this stuff either (I left that scene after Bitcoin outgrew the tech demo phase and became popular as a "so long as a majority keeps buying and holding, everyone's coins are worth insane amounts!" scheme)