Core Insights - Digital assets have transitioned from "marginal innovation" to "mainstream allocation," becoming a focal point in global financial markets due to advancements in digital technology, financial inclusivity, and clearer regulations [3][10] - Major economies are strategically positioning themselves in the digital asset space, making it a frontier for the reconstruction of financial systems and geopolitical competition [3][10] Digital Asset Overview - Digital assets generally consist of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) and crypto assets, which include stablecoins, real-world assets (RWAs), and virtual assets [4] - As of August 2025, the total market capitalization of global crypto assets reached $3.9 trillion, with Bitcoin accounting for over 56% [4] - The U.S. is accelerating the establishment of a regulatory framework through various legislations, while the EU's Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation has come into full effect [4][10] Challenges in Digital Asset Development - Technological challenges include security vulnerabilities, interoperability issues, and the need for unified communication standards [5] - Regulatory challenges stem from fragmented rules and cross-border enforcement disputes, leading to high compliance costs [5] - Market challenges include insufficient liquidity in secondary markets and uncertainties regarding asset ownership and bankruptcy isolation [5] Future Directions for Digital Assets - The significance of developing digital assets lies in their potential to enhance economic efficiency and reduce transaction costs, particularly in facilitating data sharing and cross-border payments [6] - The value foundation of digital assets varies, with CBDCs having a clear value basis, while the stability of stablecoins depends on the market value and liquidity of their collateral [6] - The role of stablecoins in reshaping cross-border payment systems and the international monetary framework is under scrutiny, with challenges related to liquidity management and regulatory uncertainties [6] Global Monetary System Evolution - The international monetary system is showing signs of fragmentation due to geopolitical competition and technological changes, presenting opportunities for other reserve currencies [7] - Strengthening institutional frameworks and further opening capital accounts are essential for leveraging the advantages of digital assets [7] Thematic Exploration in Digital Assets - The October issue of Tsinghua Financial Review features a cover topic on global digital assets, inviting experts to discuss the interaction between digital assets and the monetary financial system from multiple dimensions [12]