Standard Chartered CEO Predicts ‘Complete Rewiring’ of Finance as Blockchain Adoption Accelerates

Core Viewpoint - The financial world is on the verge of a major transformation, with predictions that nearly all global transactions will eventually settle on blockchain networks [1][3][8] Group 1: Digital Money and Blockchain - The next era of global finance will be defined by digital money and blockchain-based settlements, with a belief that all transactions will eventually settle on blockchains [3][4] - The transition to digital money will require years of experimentation and collaboration among governments, regulators, and the private sector, indicating a complete rewiring of the financial system [4][8] Group 2: Standard Chartered's Initiatives - Standard Chartered is actively embracing blockchain technology, operating digital asset custody services, trading platforms, and tokenization initiatives [4][5] - The bank is developing a Hong Kong dollar-backed stablecoin in partnership with Animoca Brands and HKT, viewing it as a key step toward building new digital payment infrastructure for international trade [6][8] Group 3: Hong Kong's Role in Digital Finance - Hong Kong is positioning itself as Asia's crypto and digital asset hub, with a licensing regime for exchanges and pilots in tokenization, an area where Standard Chartered is directly involved [5][6] - The leadership of Hong Kong is recognized for its role in pioneering regulation and innovation in digital finance [5] Group 4: Industry Perspectives on Tokenization - Major finance leaders, including Robinhood CEO Vlad Tenev and BlackRock CEO Larry Fink, are optimistic about tokenization, predicting it will reshape global investing and become mainstream within five years [7]