Coinbase Head of Investment Research David Duong said that cryptocurrency adoption will accelerate significantly in 2026 with the simultaneous introduction of exchange-traded funds (ETFs), stablecoins, tokenization, and clearer regulations.
According to Duong, 2025 marked a structural turning point in the crypto market. The introduction of spot ETFs paved the way for regulated access, while corporate crypto asset treasuries became more widespread. During the same period, stablecoins and tokenization solutions were more deeply integrated into the core processes of financial systems.
Duong argues that this process will accelerate further as we enter 2026, stating that they expect an increase in ETF approvals, stablecoins taking on a broader role in DvP (delivery versus payment) mechanisms, and tokenized collateral becoming more widely accepted in financial transactions. According to Duong, each of these topics will reinforce the others, creating a strong synergy within the crypto ecosystem.
On the regulatory front, the US clarifying the framework for stablecoins and market structure with the GENIUS Act, and Europe implementing the MiCA regulation, are creating a more predictable environment for institutional investors. Duong stated that these developments mark a critical stage in the transformation of crypto from a niche investment area to a part of the global financial infrastructure.
Finally, Duong argued that demand for cryptocurrencies is no longer tied to a single trend. He stated that macroeconomic conditions, technological advancements, and geopolitical developments are all having an effect, and that the capital structure is becoming increasingly long-term and less speculative.
*This is not investment advice.