Coinbase Projects Increased Crypto Adoption in 2026 Driven by ETFs, Stablecoins, and Tokenization

As we look toward 2026, cryptocurrency adoption is expected to grow significantly thanks to a combination of exchange-traded funds (ETFs), stablecoins, tokenization, and clearer regulations. This insight comes from David Duong, Coinbase's head of investment research.

Key Takeaways:

Coinbase anticipates that ETFs, stablecoins, and tokenization will work together to enhance the speed of crypto adoption in 2026.
The global landscape for cryptocurrency adoption has stabilized, indicating a matured market rather than a decline in growth.
Increased clarity in regulations within the US and Europe is paving the way for greater institutional involvement and integration into everyday financial practices.

In a recent year-end forecast shared on platform X, Duong noted that 2025 represented a significant shift for the digital asset market. He highlighted that the introduction of regulated spot ETFs has broadened access for investors, corporations are increasingly adopting crypto for their treasuries, and stablecoins along with tokenized assets are becoming more integrated into traditional financial systems.

Coinbase Sees ETFs, Stablecoins and Tokenization Driving Crypto Adoption in 2026

A Bright Future for Crypto Adoption

Duong expressed optimism about how these trends are likely to strengthen in 2026. He explained, “We expect these forces to compound in 2026 as ETF approval timelines shorten, stablecoins play a larger role in delivery-vs-payment frameworks, and the acceptance of tokenized collateral grows across traditional transactions.”

Although the progress of crypto adoption has been more gradual than some initial predictions, the overall trend remains stable. According to analytics platform Demand Sage, global crypto adoption has remained in a tight range over the last two years—ranging from 10.3% in Q1 2023 to 9.9% in Q1 2025.

Duong suggested that this consistency indicates a maturing market rather than a lack of growth.

The Importance of Regulatory Clarity

A major driver for the next stage in cryptocurrency development is clearer regulations. In 2025, several key jurisdictions enacted formal guidelines for cryptocurrency, influencing how institutions assess risk and allocate capital.

In the United States, the GENIUS Act advanced stablecoin legislation, resulting in a better-defined framework for US dollar-pegged tokens and various payment applications. On the European front, the advent of the Markets in Crypto-Assets regulation has established more uniform licensing and compliance measures across member states.

Duong noted, “The practical outcome is enhanced operational readiness,” highlighting that clearer policies enable companies to develop products, expand infrastructure, and incorporate cryptocurrency systems into payment and settlement processes.

Broader Crypto Demand Trends

Duong also observed a significant shift in the type of demand seen in the crypto markets. Unlike in the past, the industry is no longer dominated by a single narrative or primarily fueled by early adopters. Instead, a diverse mix of institutions, investors, and end-users are driving market activity. This change connects crypto investments to various macroeconomic signals, advancements in technology, and geopolitical events.

He added, “Demand no longer relies on a single narrative,” noting that cryptocurrencies are increasingly viewed as a strategic asset within the mainstream financial framework.

Recently, Coinbase announced its plan to acquire The Clearing Company as part of its strategy to enhance prediction markets and fulfill its goal of becoming an “Everything Exchange.” Prior to this acquisition, Coinbase had also filed lawsuits against the US states of Michigan, Illinois, and Connecticut to clarify who holds regulatory authority over prediction markets in the country.