How RWA Tokenization Is Revolutionizing Finance in 2026 – Crypto Exec Insights

Tokenization of real-world assets is poised to accelerate the evolution of financial markets, according to Grossman. He emphasizes that this technological shift will incentivize traditional institutions to adapt, as major players such as BlackRock and Franklin Templeton already offer tokenized funds and are experimenting with blockchain-based products. Additionally, global banks are conducting pilots on on-chain settlement and real-time asset transfers, signaling a significant paradigm shift.

The sector’s market capitalization underscores its burgeoning growth — nearly $19 billion, excluding stablecoins — highlighting the increasing interest in transforming conventional assets into digital tokens. This evolution promises numerous benefits, including 24/7 market access, worldwide asset class reach, reduced transaction costs via disintermediation, and drastically lowered settlement times to mere minutes. This contrasts sharply with traditional markets, which operate within fixed hours and face delays due to settlement processes.

Regulatory developments are also advancing the cause. In September, the SEC and CFTC issued a joint statement to establish a framework supporting 24/7 capital markets, aiming to modernize and liberalize trading environments. Notably, the Depository Trust and Clearing Corporation (DTCC), which processed approximately $3.7 quadrillion in settlement volume in 2024, has received SEC approval to begin offering tokenized financial instruments, starting with U.S. Treasuries and stock indices expected to launch in late 2026.

This momentum underscores a fundamental shift in financial infrastructure, mirroring the digital transformation seen in media decades ago. As regulatory clarity increases and institutional interest grows, tokenized assets are positioned to reshape traditional finance, fostering greater efficiency, transparency, and accessibility.