Forbes' 5 Major Trends in Crypto Investment for 2026: Institutionalization, Tokenization, Stablecoins, and AI Among Key Areas to Watch

Odaily News Nina Bambysheva, Forbes' Money Markets Editor and Analyst, authored an article analyzing five major trends in crypto investment for 2026, which primarily include:

1. Further deepening of institutionalization: The global assets under management for crypto ETFs and ETPs have exceeded $200 billion, and Bitcoin ETFs are gradually being incorporated into mainstream investment portfolios such as 401Ks.

2. Acceleration of asset tokenization: The U.S. SEC has approved DTCC to provide tokenization services, with formal legislation expected to commence in the second half of 2026.

3. Development of stablecoin infrastructure: The market size has surpassed $300 billion, and the GENIUS Act has attracted fintech companies like Stripe and Klarna to enter the space.

4. Diversification of on-chain markets: Everything becomes tradable. Platforms like Hyperliquid have driven perpetual contract trading volume to nearly $3 trillion in 2025, with trading varieties expanding to include oil and interest rates.

5. Integration of AI and cryptocurrency: The "machine economy" among AI agents will rely on blockchain for low-cost micropayments, with networks like Base and Solana leading in this field.