McKinsey & Company has projected a substantial growth in the market cap for tokenized real-world assets (RWAs), estimating it to reach $2 trillion by 2030.
This figure could even double to $4 trillion in a more optimistic scenario. Similar studies from Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and 21Shares supported this forecast, anticipating market caps of $16 trillion and $10 trillion, respectively.
Swift expansion in RWA tokenization
Between 2018 and 2024, the market for tokenized RWAs dramatically increased from $1.5 billion to $120 billion. This surge indicates the sector’s potential for further expansion. Various financial players, including mutual funds, lenders, and alternative funds, are currently exploring the benefits of tokenization.
Despite this growing interest, many institutions remain cautious, adopting a “wait and see” approach. However, McKinsey’s analysis suggests early adopters could secure substantial market shares.
Well-defined strategies could expedite the transition from pilot projects to full-scale deployment of tokenized financial assets. The report emphasizes financial institutions’ strategic adoption of blockchain technology, underlining its essential role in integrating existing processes.
Anthony Moro, CEO of Provenance Blockchain Labs, highlighted, “Blockchain technology is still in its early days and requires significant integration with current standards and processes. Most institutions recognize the importance of tokenization in their future operations, but the challenge lies in the technical implementation.”
Boosting tokenization through collaboration
McKinsey’s findings suggest the need for greater cooperation between market infrastructure players to develop a robust value chain supporting tokenized RWAs’ expansion. The tokenization of additional asset classes is anticipated to increase, contingent upon the successful establishment of a stable foundation by the initial asset classes.
The report proposes that private funds tap into new capital sources from high-net-worth individuals and small retail businesses via enhanced secondary market liquidity. A unified master ledger facilitates automation and transparent data management, with significant potential for operational efficiencies. Early experiments in blockchain-driven portfolio management by major institutions like J.P. Morgan and Apollo have been noted.
Efficiency and regulatory insights
The McKinsey report also illuminates how operational efficiencies can be achieved through automation and a unified ledger system, simplifying portfolio management and enhancing transparency. However, the full realization of tokenization benefits hinges on navigating regulatory landscapes that could restrict these advantages.
The market for tokenized real-world assets continues to evolve, and the importance of strategic planning, regulatory compliance, and technological integration becomes increasingly apparent. Institutions that can effectively leverage these elements may well be positioned to lead in the rapidly developing arena of asset tokenization.