The Role and Potential of Blockchain Technology in Islamic Finance

Abstract

Blockchain is the underlying technology upon which cryptocurrencies such as bitcoin are built. Cryptocurrencies have received significant attention in recent years. This focus has obscured the real technical innovation in data storage and retention – that of the so-called ‘blockchain’ digital architecture. Blockchain – also known as ‘distributed ledger technology’ (DLT) – has the potential to change much more than the realm of conventional financial services. The ability to transfer, store and record non-fungible bits of information is an important technical accomplishment that brings the economic dynamics of supply and demand to the digital sphere. This article examines how DLT is (and may in the future) influence the world of Islamic finance. We argue that blockchain has the ability to mediate and harmonise differing shariacompliance regimes thus opening up a single digital market for Islamic financial products and services. Fintech, Blockchain, Distributed Ledger Technology, Islamic Finance, Shariah-compliance, Cryptocurrency, Bitcoin, OneGram, Financial inclusion, Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).