Jakarta, Indonesia: IBF Net has launched Netverse (www.ntvr.se), the world’s first metaverse on the Algorand blockchain, which is also the world’s first Shariah-compliant metaverse on any blockchain. Netverse is expected to be a major contributor to the digitalization move in the Islamic world.

The digital economy today is estimated to be around 20–25 percent of the global economy, and this share is expected to grow steadily. The virtual economy is expected to grow within and alongside the digital economy. Given this, the size of the metaverse opportunity is predicted to be in the range of USD 8–10 trillion, according to global investment bankers, such as Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley. According to experts, the emerging web 3.0 technologies on the one hand, and the observed and ever-growing preference of the millennials to interact and transact in the digital and virtual space have contributed to this scenario. The trends are observed in several Islamic nations as well that consider the development of a halal ecosystem as a policy imperative. IBF Net’s Netverse expects to capitalise on this emerging scenario.

At the same time, Netverse is unique in many ways. Beyond fun and social interaction, Netverse will contribute to social good, through its Netversity project that offers a wide range of courses that can be pursued by anyone, anywhere.

Mohammed Alim, CEO of IBF Net Group said that IBF Net has also been focused on organic growth in the membership of its IBFNex (www.ibfnex.io) network, a portfolio of platforms on the blockchain catering to the philanthropy, non-profit, and for-profit sectors that make up a miniature Islamic economy. IBFNex will now reside inside the Netverse too. “The network has experienced a growth in membership of over 600 percent during the last two years after hovering around 5k for a long period and is on track to cross the threshold of 50k (fifty thousand) by mid-2023”, said Alim.

To further democratise its efforts, IBF Net is in the process of setting up a Governance Council (www.ibfnet.group/community) comprising early movers from the academic world, professionals, and Shariah scholars from the Islamic financial services industry. Dr. Mohammed Obaidullah, as Founder of IBF Net Group, added that this invitation is open to all people.

“We need your support and cooperation in democratising and expanding the IBF Net community. There are no membership fees or other hidden fees for participants joining the Board. The conditions are, simply fill out the form (https://ibfnet.group/community) to participate," added Dr. Obaidullah.

Once the targeted 50k membership is reached, IBF Net will initiate a transparent online process through which members will elect Commissioners to various Panels dedicated to specific components of the IBF ecosystem, such as commercial banking, insurance, investment banking, zakat, awqaf, non-profits, development finance, and cross-cutting areas like Shariah governance, regulation, and technology. These Commissioners will play an important role in the programs and activities aimed at learning and promotion, including seminars, workshops, conferences, publications, awards, and scholarships in partnership with universities and corporates.

“We are excited to see the positive impact that Netverse will have on the IBF ecosystem in the Islamic world and beyond. Join us as we pave the way for a more inclusive, democratised, and socially conscious digital future”, concluded Dr. Obaid.

About IBF Net Group

IBF Net is a leading provider of technology-based solutions for the Islamic economy. Its team of experts, with several decades of combined experience in Islamic economics, finance, and business, works with innovative businesses and companies to develop solutions that are Shariah-compliant and run on the Algorand blockchain. The company understands the unique needs of the Islamic finance industry and is committed to delivering innovative solutions that meet those needs.

IBF Net Group, established in 1999 as the first online community for the exchange of information in the field of Islamic economics, has expanded its mandate to include blockchain technology, positioning itself as a leader in the growing Islamic digital economy. The company strives for excellence and is dedicated to being a trusted partner for those looking to harness the power of blockchain technology in a way that aligns with Shariah principles.