The international lender is planning to issue what it says is the world's first global blockchainbond, a notable mainstream endorsement of the emerging technology.

Blockchain is best known as the technology underpinning bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. It serves as a digital record of financial transactions.

The World Bank has hired Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBAUF) to manage the bond, which is expected to raise as much as 100 million Australian dollars ($73 million).