In a recent survey conducted by Citi, over 500 finance executives shared a bold prediction: tokens and digital assets are expected to shoulder a hefty 10% of the post-trade market turnover by 2030. This revelation underscores the increasing entrenchment of digital assets in traditional finance, signaling a significant shift in how financial transactions may be conducted in the near future.
A New Era for Post-Trade Markets
The implications of this forecast are profound. Post-trade processes, which encompass everything from settlement to reconciliation, are fundamental to the financial ecosystem. The integration of digital assets into these processes is not just a nod to technological advancement but could potentially streamline operations, reduce costs, and increase transparency.
“Digital assets are no longer at the fringes of financial markets—they’re rapidly becoming central players,” says Jamie Collins, a blockchain analyst at FinTech Insights. “As the infrastructure matures, we’re seeing more institutional investors and financial entities acknowledging their potential.” This aligns with predictions from industry leaders, such as Ripple’s CEO, who foresees a $25 trillion crypto market by 2030.
It’s crucial to note that this shift is not happening in isolation. Over the past couple of years, the crypto industry has witnessed significant developments that have paved the way for this transformation. The Ethereum network’s move to proof-of-stake, dubbed “The Merge,” and the rise of staking platforms like Lido and EigenLayer have played a pivotal role in enhancing the efficiency and appeal of digital assets. Additionally, Ethereum’s recent outperformance of Bitcoin amid significant ETF inflows highlights its growing prominence in the market.
Challenges on the Horizon
However, it’s not all smooth sailing. The transition to digital assets for post-trade processes presents its own set of challenges. Regulatory frameworks remain fragmented, with different jurisdictions adopting varying stances on the adoption and regulation of digital finance. This patchwork of regulations can potentially stymie the growth that the survey predicts.
Moreover, cybersecurity remains a perennial concern. The digital nature of these assets makes them vulnerable to hacks and other malicious activities, raising questions about whether the industry can adequately protect these new financial instruments.
“While the potential benefits are tantalizing, the risks cannot be ignored,” warns Laura Kim, a cybersecurity expert with CryptoGuard. “The industry needs robust security protocols and regulatory clarity to truly thrive.”
Historical Perspective: From Fringe to Forefront
Just a decade ago, the idea of digital assets playing a significant role in traditional finance would have been met with skepticism. Bitcoin was often dismissed as a speculative asset, and Ethereum was still in its nascent stages. Fast forward to 2025, and the landscape has dramatically altered. Institutional interest has surged, with major players like JPMorgan and Goldman Sachs exploring blockchain for various financial services.
This shift is reflective of a broader trend toward digitalization across the financial sector. The rise of fintech solutions, the increasing use of AI in trading, and the adoption of blockchain for supply chain management are all part of this digital revolution.
Looking Ahead: The Unwritten Future
As we stand on the cusp of this new era, several questions remain unanswered. Will regulatory bodies adapt quickly enough to provide coherent frameworks? Can the industry ensure the security of digital assets and protect them from emerging threats? And perhaps most intriguingly, will the predicted integration of digital assets into post-trade markets accelerate beyond the 10% mark by 2030?
While the future remains unwritten, the current trajectory suggests that digital assets are poised to become a cornerstone of the financial world. But, as with any tectonic shift, it will require careful navigation, innovation, and a willingness to adapt to new paradigms.
In the coming years, the interplay between traditional finance and digital assets will be crucial to watch. It’s a dynamic dance that could reshape the very foundations of how financial markets operate. And for those in the industry, whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, it’s a story that promises to be as unpredictable as it is fascinating.
Source
This article is based on: Crypto expected to handle a tenth of post-trade market by 2030: Citi survey
Further Reading
Deepen your understanding with these related articles:
- US ETFs now a major source of Bitcoin spot trading volume: CryptoQuant
- Ethereum Leads Market While Altcoins Lose Ground – Details
- US Commerce Dept. Puts GDP Data on Bitcoin, Ethereum and Solana Blockchains
Steve Gregory is a lawyer in the United States who specializes in licensing for cryptocurrency companies and products. Steve began his career as an attorney in 2015 but made the switch to working in cryptocurrency full time shortly after joining the original team at Gemini Trust Company, an early cryptocurrency exchange based in New York City. Steve then joined CEX.io and was able to launch their regulated US-based cryptocurrency. Steve then went on to become the CEO at currency.com when he ran for four years and was able to lead currency.com to being fully acquired in 2025.
