The Department of Economics successfully conducted a webinar on “Redistributive Inflation and Decentralized Digital Money” with more than 120 participants attending both online and in person.
The session was moderated by Ms. Anam Malick, who warmly welcomed the participants and introduced the topic and keynote speaker, Dr. Shakeel.
During the webinar, Dr. Shakeel explained the key concepts of redistributive inflation, emerging inequalities, and the evolving landscape of decentralized digital money using recent global and Pakistan-specific statistics. He highlighted the potential role of blockchain-based digital assets in addressing inflationary pressures and reducing inequality in Pakistan.
The discussion also focused on digital inequality, termed as “information apartheid,” and emphasized practical solutions including digital literacy, improved internet accessibility, and user-friendly financial interfaces. The session underscored the importance of expanding access to digital and financial markets for ordinary citizens, particularly in a country where nearly 70% of the population is under the age of 30.
Dr. Shakeel further shared policy insights for the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), stressing the need for greater transparency in monetary aggregates, development of secure digital rails, and establishment of a clear regulatory framework for digital finance. He emphasized that holistic reforms — including anti-money laundering measures, tax base improvements, digital literacy, and wider digital access — can support pro-poor policies and strengthen Pakistan’s economic landscape.
The webinar concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, where participants actively engaged in discussion on the future of digital finance and economic inclusion in Pakistan.