Financial Sector Embraces Blockchain, Signaling New Growth Phase → Markets

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Briefing

Blockchain technology is entering a new, accelerated phase of adoption within financial services, marked by a significant increase in institutional investment and deployment. This surge means blockchain is no longer a speculative concept but a proven tool reshaping how money moves and assets are managed. A key data point illustrating this shift is that nearly three-quarters (71%) of financial service firms are making major investments in blockchain and distributed ledger technologies this year, a notable rise from 59% in 2024. This trend reflects growing confidence in the technology’s track record, the transformative potential of tokenization, and a more defined regulatory landscape.

Context

Before this news, many in the market wondered if blockchain technology would ever move beyond pilot projects and truly integrate into traditional finance. There was a common question about whether the initial hype would translate into tangible, scalable solutions, or if regulatory uncertainty and a lack of proven use cases would keep major players on the sidelines. The market sought clear signals of mainstream acceptance and practical utility beyond speculative crypto assets.

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Analysis

This acceleration in blockchain adoption is happening because several critical elements are converging. First, early distributed ledger technology (DLT) applications, like Broadridge’s Distributed Ledger Repo (DLR) platform, have built a strong track record, processing trillions in transactions without major issues. This success has alleviated previous doubts, giving firms confidence. Second, innovations like tokenization are creating new opportunities, turning physical assets into digital representations that can trade efficiently on blockchain platforms.

Think of it like converting a physical deed to a digital certificate, making it easier and faster to transfer ownership. Stablecoins, in particular, are revolutionizing payments and remittances by offering near-instant, low-cost transfers, saving billions in fees. Finally, increased regulatory clarity from frameworks like MiCA in Europe and the GENIUS Act in the United States is reducing uncertainty, making it safer for major financial institutions to engage with blockchain technology. These factors combine to create a compelling environment for widespread integration.

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Parameters

Financial Firm Investment → 71% of financial service firms are making major investments in blockchain/DLT in 2025, an increase from 59% in 2024. This indicates a strong and growing commitment to the technology.
Capital Market Adoption Expectation → 48% of study participants anticipate significant blockchain adoption in capital markets over the next several years. This reflects a forward-looking positive outlook.
DLT Platform Growth → Broadridge’s DLR platform has seen over 800% growth in average daily volumes since its 2021 launch, processing over $280 billion daily in August 2025. This demonstrates successful scaling of a key DLT application.
Remittance Fee Reduction → Stablecoins can reduce remittance fees from over 6% to approximately a penny per transaction. This highlights the efficiency gains for global money transfers.

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Outlook

Looking ahead, market watchers should observe the progress of upcoming regulatory initiatives, such as the proposed CLARITY Act in the U.S. which could further streamline blockchain integration. Also, monitor the continued expansion of tokenization beyond stablecoins into other asset classes like corporate bonds and real estate, as this will signal deeper penetration of blockchain into traditional financial markets. The growth of DLT platforms like Broadridge’s DLR within their respective markets will also be a key indicator of sustained institutional confidence and operational efficiency gains.

Blockchain technology is firmly establishing itself as a foundational component within financial services, driven by proven applications, innovative tokenization, and clearer regulatory guidance.

Signal Acquired from → Ledger Insights