A real-world use case of digital assets and fractional ownership, where a utility token became a gateway to equity through Brickken's tokenization infrastructure.
TL;DR
Looking for a way to drive token demand and investor trust using digital assets? This real-world case shows how.
- Hacken enabled users to purchase tokenized equity using their $HAI utility token.
- This increased token demand and gave investors real ownership opportunities.
- It's a standout example of how digital tokens can unlock access to equity and strengthen community engagement.
- Built on Brickken’s secure and compliant tokenization platform, this move bridged DeFi and real-world assets.
When Utility Opens the Door to Ownership
Utility tokens usually grant access to services, not ownership. But Hacken, a leading blockchain auditing firm, decided to challenge this standard.
To take things further, Hacken gave $HAI holders the opportunity to use their tokens to buy equity shares in the company. This approach turned a basic service token into a tool for deeper investment, showing how digital assets can build lasting value and trust.
Hacken made this possible using Brickken’s tokenization platform, which enabled them to issue equity tokens securely and compliantly. Brickken’s infrastructure handled the complex technical setup for both utility and equity tokens, allowing Hacken to concentrate on growth and community engagement.
How the Equity Purchase Worked
Before:
- $HAI was a utility token used to access Hacken’s services.
- It had no connection to equity or business governance.
Then:
- Hacken launched Hacken Equity Shares (HES), representing tokenized equity.
- Community members could use $HAI to acquire HES.
- HES holders gained dividend rights and governance participation.
Outcome:
- $HAI gained new relevance and value.
- Investors transitioned from users to stakeholders.
- Hacken deepened loyalty and engagement within its ecosystem.
- This model did not replace utility. It extended it.
Why It Created Value
For Hacken:
- Boosted demand for $HAI by offering a new use case, which also increased the token's value.
- Reinforced Hacken’s credibility by showing it was ready for long-term growth.
- Created a deeper connection with its token holders, who became active participants in the company’s future.
For Investors:
- Enabled access to tokenized equity with fractional ownership.
- Provided dividend rights and decision-making power.
- Strengthened alignment with the company’s long-term goals.
For the Ecosystem:
- Demonstrated how token models can evolve to meet new business goals.
- Provided a practical example of tokenization creating real utility for both issuers and investors.
Trust and Compliance from Day One
This structure worked because it was built on trust and regulatory clarity.
- HES tokens followed security laws in relevant jurisdictions.
- KYC and AML verification protected all participants.
- Ownership was recorded immutably on blockchain.
- Smart contracts handled governance and earnings distributions automatically.
- Brickken’s platform ensured these layers worked together, without friction.
Where This Fits in a Global Trend
- Real world asset (RWA) tokenization is set to reach $16 trillion by 2030 (Boston Consulting Group).
- Equity tokens are gaining ground in sectors from real estate to venture capital.
- Fractional ownership allows more investors to participate in traditionally exclusive assets.
This case proves that tokenization isn’t just for early-stage startups. It’s a tool for mature businesses to unlock new capital and create stronger investor relationships.
Brickken’s Role in the Background
For Hacken’s vision to succeed, they needed a platform that could:
- Support both utility and tokenized equity assets.
- Automate onboarding, whitelisting, and governance.
- Ensure compliance across jurisdictions.
- Provide a seamless experience for issuers and investors alike.
Our platform delivered all of this under the hood. Hacken could innovate, while Brickken handled the digital infrastructure.
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