TimeLedger: Your Money is Time

Ayushi Patra
Sep 24
2 min read

Updated: Oct 16

Money is changing faster than ever: from UPI and digital wallets to Bitcoin and NFTs. But there are still big problems: billions of people remain unbanked, inflation eats away at savings, and global payments take days to settle.

Your Task: Imagine it’s the year 2040. You have invented a completely new way for people to earn, spend, and save money, one that solves a major problem in today’s financial world.

In your essay, tell us:

The Problem: What issue with today’s money system inspired you to innovate?
Your Solution: Describe your new form of money or financial system. How does it work?
Impact: How will it change daily life for people and businesses? Why is it better than today’s system?

Reflecting on 2020 from the perspective of 2040, I feel nostalgic about my journey to financial freedom. The evolution from traditional banks to digital systems like UPIs has been remarkable. However, the impact of AI on jobs and creativity has been eye-opening, revealing how many have lost roles that shouldn't have been replaced by automation.

After years of interacting with artists, professionals and entrepreneurs, I came up with

TimeLeger, a currency where every credit equals one hour of verified human contribution. Whether you are a scientist developing cures and researching uncertainties or a passionate musician who likes to compose songs, your time is valued. They say “Time is Money,” and TimeLedger does just the thing. Here, AI doesn’t replace your value but enhances it by securing, recording and verifying transactions, ensuring only fairness and preventing corruption from hackers. TimeLedger cannot be hoarded easily, which keeps the economy balanced.

Workings of the TimeLedger:

A doctor earns 24 credits for 24 hours of treatment, a farmer earns 6 credits for 6 hours of farming, and a parent earns 12 credits for 12 hours of childcare.
These credits can be exchanged for services, saved, or invested. Nations can contribute unused credits to a global "Solidarity Pool" to fund education and other initiatives.
Companies can use this system instead of traditional money, while businesses and governments act as distributors.

TimeLedger has made people choose themselves by allowing them to do the job or hobby they love. In fact, AI can never take over hard work and the human mind. This currency has not just benefited economically, but also helped people go back to their traditional jobs, which we loved 20 years ago, like writing, drawing, and creating new art. TimeLedger has shifted the question from “How much money do you have?” to “How do you choose to spend your hours of life?”

At futurowise, the ideas for future series celebrates how students share their vision for the world through creative projects and submissions. Each idea reflects curiosity, innovation, and a drive to make an impact. If you’re ready to turn your own ideas into action and prepare for the future, explore our future readiness programs at futurowise.com.