2 weeks Ago By Web Desk
In a significant move towards advancing research and innovation in blockchain and digital assets, the Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) officially launched its Center for Digital Assets Research (CeDAR) on April 24. The Center aims to serve as a platform for research, training, and development in areas such as the decentralised internet, Web 3.0, and digital asset technologies.
CeDAR is supported by a grant from the Stacks Foundation, a global blockchain initiative known for enabling smart contracts on Bitcoin. Dr. Muneeb Ali, founder of Stacks and a 2003 Computer Science graduate from LUMS, is among the key figures backing the project.
Dr. Ali, who is widely recognised as a global pioneer in blockchain technology, emphasized the role of crypto networks as a transformative force akin to the rise of the internet. The launch comes at a time when Pakistan ranks among the top ten countries in digital asset adoption, yet lacks a formal regulatory framework.
The government's recent formation of the Pakistan Crypto Council signals growing interest in supporting the industry through structured policy. CeDAR aims to bridge the gap by offering a space for policy development, tech incubation, and collaboration among students, entrepreneurs, regulators, and industry players. Gold prices plunge sharply amid US-China tariff tensions To mark its opening, CeDAR hosted an international conference at LUMS, bringing together leaders from prominent global digital asset firms and domestic stakeholders.
Attendees included representatives from Zodia Markets (Standard Chartered), Binance, Haruko, Scope Markets, Klickl, Dragonstone Capital, and Fasset, alongside local fintech and investment entities such as Abhi Bank, KTrade, TPL, Alfalah Investments, NayaPay, and Zayn VC. The event featured roundtable discussions with key Pakistani regulatory bodies, including the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), and the Pakistan Banking Council. Conversations focused on issues such as regulatory compliance, energy use in crypto mining, investment strategies involving digital assets, and the development of a skilled workforce.
With CeDAR now active, LUMS is poised to play a leading role in shaping the future of blockchain research and education in Pakistan, supporting innovation and policy development in a rapidly evolving digital economy. Moin Khan backs Mohammad Amir Tags: LUMS.
