Qatar Financial Center has published a report on the future of digital assets, underscoring the need for coordinated regulatory frameworks and multi-stakeholder cooperation to unlock the future of real-world asset (RWA) tokenization, mentioning that Qatar will work on stablecoin implementation in the near future.
The report, written in partnership with Global Stratalogues and the Global Blockchain Business Council, offers insights from global experts on what will constitute a successful development of inclusive and future-ready token ecosystems, which they believe hinges on cross-border regulatory alignment, strategic infrastructure investment, and public-private collaboration.
The findings highlight that tokenization, when embedded within a coherent policy framework, can expand market access, enhance financial inclusion, and deliver tangible value across economies.
The report came out during the inaugural Digital Assets Policy Roundtable, hosted by the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) in partnership with Global Stratalogues and the Global Blockchain Business Council (GBBC), convened during the Qatar Economic Forum as a landmark forum for cross-border regulatory coordination and institutional dialogue.
The roundtable discussions highlighted in the report noted that while global regulatory alignment is emerging, it is happening unevenly as legal definitions and compliance requirements vary across jurisdictions.
The report mentions that infrastructure and interoperability should be prioritized and calls for institutional sandboxes and global standards. Qatar’s regulatory sandbox was cited as a global best practice.
Yousuf Mohamed Al-Jaida, Chief Executive Officer, QFC, believes that tokenization can unlock real value by making assets more accessible and easier to transfer. He asserts, “To realize this potential, we need a clear system that combines robust regulation, secure custody, and practical application. This will create a trusted environment that enables institutional adoption and drives sustainable market growth.”
Highlighting the practical application of digital tokens, Henk J. Hoogendoorn, Chief Financial Sector Officer, QFC, said, “Tokenization must serve a purpose. It should democratize access and create real-world value. Qatar is committed to making tokenization of real-world assets a success.”
Qatar Digital Asset strategy will include stablecoins
Representing the QFC, Hoogendoorn outlined Qatar’s strategic approach to digital asset development, reiterating Qatar’s position on cryptocurrency restrictions. He noted that the official policy is that “Crypto is a no-go for now” as previously stated by QFC CEO” during Qatar Economic Forum this year.
However he mentioned there will be selective cryptocurrency adoption anticipated, likely beginning with stablecoins. In terms of regulatory coordination Hoogendoom explained that this would be a joint initiative with Qatar Central Risk Authority and the Central Bank of Qatar.
For Qatar when it comes to tokenization their strategy is to incorporate it into the investment sector in areas such as private equity, sharia compliant digital asset mechanisms, Murabaha structure automation, which would allow for secondary market liquidity through token trading.
The strategy also seeks to help venture capital with early exit opportunities for investors.
Companies in the blockchain sphere have participated in Qatar’s Digital Asset Labs, including R3, SettleMint, and The Hashgraph Association.
The Hashgraph Association had announced in 2024 that within the next 12 months they are exploring five innovative use cases, in the areas of equity tokenization, Sukuk Islamic Bonds tokenization, real estate tokenization, sustainability ESG Carbon credits, as well as consumer engagement and loyalty programs.
This is part of the partnership that was signed with QFC for a $50 million Digital Assets Venture Studio to develop the Web3 and DLT innovation ecosystem in Qatar.
Recently, for example, the Qatar National Bank ( Singapore Branch) and DMZ Finance, a blockchain financial technology company also headquartered in Singapore, received the first MENA-regulated tokenized money market fund from the Dubai Financial Services Authority. QNB, the largest financial institution in the Middle East and Africa, will serve as the fund’s lead originator and investment manager. DMZ Finance, acting as co-originator, provides the exclusive tokenization infrastructure powering the fund.
RWAs are increasingly recognized as a critical bridge between traditional finance (TradFi) and decentralized finance (DeFi). According to a recent report by Ripple and BCG, the market for tokenized RWAs is projected to grow to USD18.9 trillion by 2033 under a midpoint scenario.
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