Is Crypto Still a Smart Investment in 2026 and Beyond?

Core Insights - The cryptocurrency landscape is transitioning from a speculative environment to one focused on utility and infrastructure as regulation and solidification of the market take precedence [1][3][6] Industry Trends - The shift in perception is evident as institutional investors are increasingly planning to allocate more to crypto, with 83% indicating intentions to increase their investments in 2025 [5][6] - Regulatory clarity is enhancing institutional confidence, particularly following the repeal of SAB 121, which previously hindered banks from custodying crypto assets [6][9] Investment Focus - There is a growing interest in stablecoins, tokenized funds, and exchange-traded products (ETPs), with 69% of institutional investors planning to invest in ETPs in 2025 [7] - The focus is shifting towards foundational platforms like Solana and Band Protocol, which are seen as essential components of decentralized systems, akin to cloud and cybersecurity in modern tech portfolios [4][6] Real-World Applications - Cryptocurrency is becoming a necessity for everyday transactions, especially in regions like Latin America where traditional currencies are unstable and banking access is limited [8] - The introduction of tools such as Crypto IRAs and ETFs is making it easier for new participants to enter the market, although the rapid development of the cryptocurrency space remains a consideration [9]