What is the point of AST?

Could you elaborate on the significance and purpose of AST in the context of cryptocurrency and finance? What problem does it aim to solve? How does it fit into the current landscape of blockchain-based solutions? Are there any unique advantages AST offers that sets it apart from other similar projects? Additionally, what are the potential implications and opportunities AST presents for investors, developers, and the broader cryptocurrency community? Understanding the core value proposition of AST would help us assess its potential and relevance in the evolving world of digital assets.