The Hottest New Public Chain in 2026 is Run by a Brokerage
The article discusses how major financial platforms, not crypto-native companies, are driving the next wave of asset tokenization by controlling the user interface. By 2026, brokerage Robinhood launches its own blockchain, achieving over $1 billion TVL in a week, primarily from savings products. Meanwhile, Kraken acquires tokenized stock issuer Backed Finance, and Telegram integrates these assets for its global user base.
The key shift is that tokenized assets are now legally sound and composable within DeFi. However, the infrastructure (blockchains) and issuers are becoming commoditized. The real value lies in controlling the distribution "button"—the point-of-sale where users click "buy." Platforms like Robinhood (offering a familiar interface to millions) and Telegram (providing access in emerging markets) capture this value, effectively turning DeFi protocols into their backend service providers.
While the US market remains restricted due to SEC regulation, which treats tokenized stocks as securities, growth is happening elsewhere. The article concludes that in the coming decade, while chains and assets proliferate, the truly scarce resource will be user attention and access at the point of purchase.
marsbit07/13 10:35
