• Journal of the Economic Geographical Society of Korea
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• v.24 no.1
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• pp.76-101
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• 2021

This paper analyzes two cases of space tokenization, Meridio and QuantmRE, to explore the potential of tokenization as a new means of space financialization. Space tokenization is based on blockchain technology and security token offering (STO). Although some financial geographers noted the possible impact of blockchain technology on space financialization, it has not been examined in depth. Therefore, this paper demonstrates space tokenization cases in detail. Meridio and QuantmRE suggest financial structures that convert space into tokens based on fractional ownership transactions. QuantmRE, specifically, allows a homeowner to secure cash without either debt or ownership relinquishment through sales of tokenized home equity. As this method takes a form of sale transaction rather than a loan, it enables financial institutions to circumvent strengthened regulation on loans after the 2008 global financial crisis. Moreover, even "house poor" households, who own houses but lack cash due to excessive loans, can cash out from their properties through QuantmRE. As such, space tokenization enables financial institutions to overcome constrained conditions after the global financial crisis, thereby reproducing space financialization. Space tokenization also has the potential to geographically expand space financialization through stimulating investment in the depressed housing market.