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Asset Tokenization in Financial Markets: The Next Generation of Financial Infrastructure

This report by the World Economic Forum assesses the transformative potential of asset tokenization for the global financial system. The analysis examines how D

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Abstract

This report by the World Economic Forum assesses the transformative potential of asset tokenization for the global financial system. The analysis examines how DLT-based infrastructure can improve efficiency, transparency, and market access. The WEF emphasizes that tokenization is not merely a technological upgrade but a fundamental shift in market structure that necessitates collaboration between public and private stakeholders. The document provides a framework for evaluating the business case for tokenization, considering factors such as clearing and settlement speed, capital efficiency, and operational risk. Furthermore, it addresses the policy implications, urging global harmonisation to prevent regulatory fragmentation. The report concludes with actionable recommendations for financial institutions and regulators, highlighting the importance of developing scalable, interoperable, and compliant DLT infrastructure to support the next generation of global capital markets. Authors: World Economic Forum Publication: Technical Report Publication date: 2025-01-01

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Key findings

  • Tokenization will likely lead to a reduction in settlement times to near-instantaneous.
  • Interoperability between public and private DLTs is critical for global market integration.
  • Regulatory harmonization is the primary driver for institutional adoption.
  • Asset tokenization enables new models for capital market participation and fractionalized ownership.

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Citation

World Economic Forum (2025). Asset Tokenization in Financial Markets: The Next Generation of Financial Infrastructure. Technical Report. https://reports.weforum.org/docs/WEF_Asset_Tokenization_in_Financial_Markets_2025.pdf
Canonical knowledge ID: research:asset-tokenization-in-financial-markets-the-next-generation-of-financial-infrastructure