Digital Assets Enter Structural Transformation Phase, The Path To Global Financial Integration

The global financial industry is experiencing significant momentum in the adoption of digital assets. Structural changes that started from the foundations of infrastructure are now beginning to show signs of serious integration into the traditional financial system. According to the view of executives from Fidelity Digital Assets, this transformation is similar to the impact of containers on the global trading ecosystem—a fundamental change that will change the way finance is conducted.

Infrastructure Foundations and Institutional Adoption Continue to Grow

Chris Kuiper, Vice President of Research at Fidelity Digital Assets, said the foundation for a structural shift in global finance has already been laid. Infrastructure, institutions, and financial advisors are gradually building an ecosystem that supports this transformation.

Institutional adoption is evolving through several key channels. Custodial services are becoming increasingly mature, allowing large investors to safely entrust their digital assets. The derivatives market is constantly evolving, providing more sophisticated hedging tools. The tokenization of traditional assets opens up new opportunities for market efficiency. In addition, large funds such as pensions and endowments are starting to move—albeit at a relatively conservative pace—indicating real institutional demand from long-term investors.

Year 2026: Digital Asset Integration Extends to Mainstream Financial Systems

Entering 2026, the integration of digital assets into the traditional financial system has entered an acceleration phase. Major banks have announced concrete plans to build and expand their digital asset capabilities. This expansion is expected to bring more liquidity, better security standards, and a deeper connection with established financial infrastructure.

Ever-evolving regulatory clarity is an important catalyst in this process. With clearer guidelines from global financial authorities, institutions can commit more confidently to entering the digital asset space. Positive regulatory momentum is expected to accelerate adoption and deepen structural integration.

Wealth Advisor: A Measurable Long-Term Source of Demand

One aspect that is still underappreciated by the market is the role of wealth advisors in encouraging the adoption of digital assets. As access to cryptocurrencies expands and investor education increases, wealth advisors are positioned to be a steady and sustainable source of demand. They will act as gatekeepers in integrating digital assets into their clients’ diversified portfolios, creating fundamental long-term demand.

The structural transformation in the digital asset landscape is no longer a question of “if” but “when” and “how fast.” With a strong infrastructure foundation, growing institutional support, and increased regulatory clarity, this structural shift is projected to continue to redefine the role of digital assets in the global financial system throughout the coming years.