BlackRock names crypto and tokenization as ‘themes driving markets’ in 2026

Core Insights - BlackRock identifies cryptocurrency and tokenized assets as significant investment themes shaping markets in 2026, alongside artificial intelligence and energy infrastructure [1][2] Investment Themes - The report emphasizes that cryptocurrencies like bitcoin (BTC), ether (ETH), and stablecoins are part of a broader list of themes driving market changes [2] - Tokenization is highlighted as a growing trend, representing real-world assets in digital formats, which is changing how investors access markets [4] Market Trends - The iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), BlackRock's spot bitcoin ETF, is noted as the fastest-growing exchange-traded product in history, with net assets exceeding $70 billion, indicating strong investor interest in bitcoin [3] - The Ethereum blockchain is recognized for its dominance in tokenized assets, holding over 65% of the market share, and is seen as a key player in the growth of tokenization [5] Broader Implications - The inclusion of crypto and tokenized assets in the report suggests that BlackRock views them as part of transformative "mega forces" affecting economies and portfolio management [6] - The report indicates a shift towards mainstream acceptance of blockchain technologies, with potential for modernizing financial infrastructure [7]