Tokenization & Real-World Assets

The future of money, AI and the state

The article, “The Future of Money, AI and the State” by Bilal Bin Saqib, argues that Pakistan’s economic future depends on integrating financial innovation, artificial intelligence (AI), and strong state institutions. It highlights the potential of asset tokenization, digital bonds and sukuk to improve capital markets, while stressing that enforceable ownership rights, effective regulation, cybersecurity, and investor protection must come first. The article also advocates using blockchain to improve transparency in public spending and AI to strengthen regulatory oversight, while cautioning that technology alone cannot eliminate fraud, corruption, or economic weaknesses. For Pakistan, the priority should be practical, locally relevant AI applications, credible digital-asset use cases, and collaboration among regulators and financial institutions rather than simply acquiring new technology. Ultimately, technology should strengthen public trust, mobilize investment, improve institutional performance, and create economic value—not replace sound governance and accountability.