Core Insights - Siebert Financial Corp. has launched Digital Assets Research within its Capital Markets division, appointing Brian P. Vieten as Research Analyst to provide institutional-grade research on cryptocurrency and blockchain-related sectors [1][2]. Group 1: Company Developments - The new Digital Assets Research group aims to publish research on cryptocurrency, blockchain infrastructure, Web3 applications, and public companies with significant exposure to digital assets, enhancing Siebert's research capabilities [1][4]. - Brian P. Vieten, with nearly a decade of equity research experience and eight years in the crypto space, previously worked at Needham & Company focusing on Crypto Assets and Blockchain [2][4]. - The initiative is part of Siebert's broader strategy to expand its institutional services and support clients in navigating the evolving digital asset landscape [4][6]. Group 2: Market Trends - There is a growing client demand for rigorous digital asset research, indicating a shift in market focus towards cryptocurrency and blockchain technologies [2][3]. - The integration of tokenization and decentralized finance (DeFi) is blurring the lines between traditional finance (TradFi) and the digital ecosystem, highlighting the need for informed research [3][4]. - Digital assets are increasingly recognized as a significant factor reshaping market structures and investor behaviors, moving beyond being a niche topic [4].