Public Markets – Where are the Biggest Institutional Opportunities? ETF, Mutual Funds, Stocks, Bonds
– Moderator: Julien Bahurel, Partner, Deep Blue/Definer Fund
– Anndy Lian, Senior Advisor, Peach Income Fund
– Tony Wong, Managing Director, CSOP Asset Management
– Nicholas Studholme Wilson, Chief Operating Officer – Asia, GFO-X
At the panel discussion, industry experts gathered to explore the transformative potential of tokenization in asset classes and the future of financial markets. The conversation, moderated by Julian, delved into the implications of digitizing assets and the infrastructure required to support this evolution.
Julian opened the panel by highlighting the significance of functional markets, which are valued at approximately 4 trillion dollars. The focus then shifted to the opportunities presented by liquid markets through tokenization or digitization.
Tony discussed the enormous opportunities within the crypto space, particularly in Asia, where a significant portion of crypto trading activity originates. He emphasized the institutional interest in crypto markets, especially following price openings, and the inquiries from traditional managers and private bankers about accessing these new asset classes with appropriate risk levels. He pointed out that mutual funds might be the first asset class to adopt tokenization, revolutionizing the distribution landscape. He envisioned mutual funds being traded on exchanges like any other asset, within regulatory frameworks, making them accessible 24/7.
Anndy concurred with Tony’s views on mutual funds. He described tokenizing them as a “piece of cake” and predicted a substantial uptake, particularly in Hong Kong, which could become a significant player in the Asian market. Anndy also touched upon the role of exchanges like NASDAQ in a blockchain-dominated world, speculating that traditional exchanges might adapt to offer 24/7 services using blockchain technology.
Nicholas shared his perspective on achieving the end goal of a fully tokenized state on multiple chains. He stressed the importance of starting with existing infrastructure to generate revenue before transitioning to more advanced systems. Nicholas also discussed the challenges of latency and privacy considerations, suggesting that permissioned chains might be a necessary starting point before moving to public chains.
The panelists debated the coexistence of traditional liquid markets with tokenized markets, agreeing that while they may initially coexist, the superior efficiency of tokenized systems would eventually lead to a transition.
The conversation also touched on the regulatory implications of tokenization. While the technology offers exciting possibilities, it also presents challenges for regulators who must adapt to a rapidly evolving landscape.
As the discussion concluded, the panelists expressed optimism about the future of tokenized markets. They envisioned a world where traditional and tokenized markets coexist and eventually converge, thanks to improved infrastructure and broader acceptance of blockchain technology.
The panel’s insights suggest that while the journey toward widespread tokenization is still in its early stages, the destination promises a more inclusive and efficient market for all participants. As the technology matures and regulatory frameworks evolve, we may witness a significant shift in how assets are traded and managed globally.
Digital Assets: Realised held in Hong Kong on 7 March 2024. The event brought traditional funding, listing players, and new digital exchange and platform opportunities.
Anndy Lian is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur who is known for his work in the government sector. He is a best selling book author- “NFT: From Zero to Hero” and “Blockchain Revolution 2030”.
Currently, he is appointed as the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization, championing national digitization. Prior to his current appointments, he was the Chairman of BigONE Exchange, a global top 30 ranked crypto spot exchange and was also the Advisory Board Member for Hyundai DAC, the blockchain arm of South Korea’s largest car manufacturer Hyundai Motor Group. Lian played a pivotal role as the Blockchain Advisor for Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in the Asia-Pacific region.
An avid supporter of incubating start-ups, Anndy has also been a private investor for the past eight years. With a growth investment mindset, Anndy strategically demonstrates this in the companies he chooses to be involved with. He believes that what he is doing through blockchain technology currently will revolutionise and redefine traditional businesses. He also believes that the blockchain industry has to be “redecentralised”.
