Grayscale Maps Long Term Growth for Real World Asset Tokens

Crypto asset manager Grayscale published new research outlining expectations for rapid growth in tokenized real world assets and identifying blockchain networks positioned to benefit from that expansion.

The report focuses on asset tokenization, a process that places equities, bonds, real estate, and commodities on blockchain networks to enable digital trading, settlement, and ownership.

Good to Know

• Grayscale expects tokenized assets to grow from a very small base
• Ethereum, BNB Chain, Solana, and Chainlink sit at the center of the outlook
• Regulatory clarity and maturing infrastructure support the forecast

Grayscale Outlines a Long Term Case for Asset Tokenization

Grayscale describes tokenized assets as an early stage market with outsized growth potential. According to the report, tokenized equities and bonds currently represent just 0.01 percent of global market capitalization.

That limited penetration underpins the forecast.

“Tokenized assets are tiny today: just 0.01% of global equity and bond market capitalization (Exhibit 11). Grayscale expects rapid growth in asset tokenization over the coming years, facilitated by more mature blockchain technology and improved regulatory clarity. By 2030, it would not be surprising to see tokenized assets grow by ~1,000x, in our view.”

The analysis frames tokenization as financial infrastructure rather than speculative activity. Shorter settlement cycles, programmable ownership, and wider market access feature as core drivers. Institutional participation, rather than retail trading, anchors much of the projected growth.

Networks that process tokenized transactions stand to capture that activity.

Grayscale points to Ethereum, BNB Chain, and Solana as the leading blockchains for tokenized assets at present. The report notes that network leadership may shift over time as performance, cost, and compliance features evolve.

Beyond base layers, supporting infrastructure also plays a role.

Grayscale highlights Chainlink as well positioned due to oracle services that connect blockchains with external data. Those services support pricing, settlement, and verification for tokenized financial products.

The report states:

“This growth will likely drive value to the blockchains that process transactions in tokenized assets, as well as a variety of supporting applications. The leading blockchains for tokenized assets today[6] are Ethereum (ETH), BNB Chain (BNB), and Solana (SOL), although this list will likely evolve over time. In terms of supporting applications, Chainlink (LINK) looks especially well placed, given its unique suite of software technologies.”

Grayscale also connects tokenization growth to broader industry trends. Banks, asset managers, and trading firms already pilot tokenized funds, treasury products, and settlement systems. As legal frameworks mature, tokenized markets may integrate more deeply with traditional finance rather than operate in parallel.

FAQ

What are tokenized assets?

Tokenized assets represent real world financial instruments recorded and transferred on blockchain networks.

Why does Grayscale expect large growth?

The firm cites low current adoption, improved blockchain capability, and increasing regulatory clarity.

Which crypto assets could benefit most?

Grayscale highlights Ethereum, BNB Chain, Solana, and Chainlink based on current usage.

Does the forecast rely on token price appreciation?

No. The outlook focuses on transaction volume, infrastructure usage, and institutional adoption.