Global trading platform eToro is expanding its tokenization efforts by converting 100 popular U.S. stocks and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) into ERC-20 tokens on the Ethereum blockchain. This strategic move aims to enable 24/5 trading and seamlessly integrate these assets with decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols. Users will gain the flexibility to transfer their tokenized holdings to self-custody wallets or exchange them back for traditional stock holdings.
This initiative builds on eToro's previous success in tokenizing gold and silver in 2019 and aligns with the increasing trend of real-world asset (RWA) tokenization, a market currently valued at $21.3 billion. While tokenized equities currently represent a $418 million segment, they are projected to grow into a trillion-dollar market. eToro CEO Yoni Assia emphasized that tokenization will enhance transparency and accessibility, ultimately democratizing finance by connecting conventional and blockchain-based markets.
eToro's move reflects broader industry momentum, with competitors like Robinhood recently launching an Arbitrum-based layer-2 for tokenized stocks in Europe, and Backed Finance already listing 60 tokenized equities. By choosing an Ethereum-based approach, eToro is leveraging the blockchain's robust infrastructure to facilitate this expansion.
July 2025, Cryptoniteuae