BlackRock’s 2026 thematic outlook quietly delivers one of the strongest institutional endorsements Ethereum has received so far. According to the world’s largest asset manager, Ethereum underpins ~65% of tokenized assets, positioning it as the leading settlement layer for real-world assets (RWAs).
Why Ethereum stands out
BlackRock frames Ethereum as a potential “toll road” for blockchain-based markets — the infrastructure layer legacy finance increasingly relies on as tokenization expands. From DTCC experiments to exchange-linked initiatives, Ethereum is emerging as the default neutral ground where traditional finance meets crypto.
Tokenization > speculation
A key insight from the report: stablecoin adoption is now outpacing spot crypto trading volumes. That suggests tokenized assets are finding real economic utility, not just speculative demand. In BlackRock’s view, tokenization is one of the fastest-growing blockchain use cases — and Ethereum is currently the main beneficiary.
The numbers matter
▪️ ~65% of tokenized assets live on Ethereum
▪️ ~$13.2B in RWAs directly supported on Ethereum
▪️ BlackRock’s BUIDL fund is primarily issued on Ethereum and BNB Chain
▪️ BlackRock runs the largest $BTC and $ETH ETH ETFs globally
Notably, while other networks are mentioned, Bitcoin and Ethereum are the only ones BlackRock consistently highlights, signaling where institutional conviction really sits.
The convergence trade
BlackRock describes a growing “convergence” where traditional securities move onchain, while digital assets integrate into legacy financial systems. Tokenization enables 24/7 markets, faster settlement, and programmable assets — but regulatory clarity and market infrastructure still need to mature.
Big picture
This isn’t a claim that Ethereum has already won. It’s a recognition that if tokenization scales, Ethereum is structurally positioned to capture value through increased issuance, settlement activity, and stablecoin usage.
For investors, the message is subtle but important:
Tokenization isn’t a narrative anymore — it’s becoming a balance-sheet decision. And right now, Wall Street is building most of it on Ethereum.
#Ethereum #Tokenization #ArifAlpha
