KP Sharma
The Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) officially introduced Ter, its new currency, which translates to ‘treasure’ in Dzongkha, during the Bhutan Innovation Forum in Paro yesterday.
According to the finance managing director of GMC, HoBeng Lim, Ter is built on blockchain technology to ensure transparency, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
The new currency will be fully backed by physical gold. “In a way, it is a return to and reinterpretation of the gold standard,” HoBeng Lim said, highlighting the currency’s foundation in physical assets.
The GMC aims to create a next-generation financial ecosystem that transcends traditional finance, integrating digital assets into its framework.
The finance managing director of GMC highlighted the importance of technology in modern finance, stating that this approach fosters monetary discipline. “It is not about printing money, but about maintaining prudence and discipline,” he added.
In terms of business regulations, the GMC is designed to prioritise safe and compliant enterprises.
HoBeng Lim said that the city’s goal is to attract the best, cleanest, and the most innovative businesses, which will align with the aspirations of both Bhutan and the GMC. The focus will be on companies that meet strict regulatory compliance standards.
Recognising finance as the engine of urban development, the GMC envisions a robust financial system supporting diverse sectors.
“This system will be based on global best practices and supported by a comprehensive legal framework,” he added.
He outlined the three pillars of monetary regulation that GMC will follow, known as the ‘three Cs’. The first C stands for clarity, in which the legal framework will be clear and easy for everyone to understand.
“We want to make our laws extremely straightforward and accessible to the public,” he said.
The second C is co-creation, where GMC will adopt a consultative approach, inviting global experts and stakeholders to help shape a regulatory system that is both robust and safe.
The final C stands for customer-first, with GMC prioritising the needs of customers by offering better services and support.
Bhutan is already familiar with digital assets, and the GMC plans to bridge traditional finance with emerging sectors like cryptocurrencies.
In addition, the GMC has ambitions to position itself as an international financial hub, focusing on areas such as wealth and fund management, digital technology, and digital asset management strategies.
HoBeng Lim said that the GMC will aim to become a center for innovation and excellence, blending the strengths of traditional finance with the opportunities presented by digital assets.