Ethereum's Total Value Locked Could Rise Tenfold by 2026, Says SharpLink CEO

The CEO of SharpLink, Joseph Chalom, predicts that Ethereum's total value locked (TVL) could increase by up to 10 times in USD by 2026. This optimistic forecast is based on the expected growth of the stablecoin market, the rise of tokenized real-world assets (RWAs), and advancements in on-chain AI and prediction markets. With significant institutional interest, Ethereum is positioned to capture more value despite its current challenges.

Key Takeaways

Joseph Chalom, CEO of SharpLink, forecasts a potential 10x increase in Ethereum's total value locked (TVL) by 2026.
The stablecoin market is expected to grow to $500 billion, significantly boosting Ethereum's TVL.
Tokenized RWAs are anticipated to reach a capitalization of $300 billion, also contributing to the TVL surge.
The adoption of on-chain AI and prediction markets will enhance Ethereum's appeal compared to its competitors.
SharpLink currently manages over $2 billion in Ethereum, supporting its digital asset strategy and staking ecosystem.

Ethereum TVL 10x Rally Expected in 2026: SharpLink CEO Opinion

Ethereum's Promising Future

Ethereum (ETH), the leading programmable blockchain, had a mixed performance in 2025. However, key figures in the Ethereum-focused asset management sector remain optimistic about its future in 2026. Chalom's prediction is particularly exciting as he anticipates a potential 10-fold increase in Ethereum's total value locked (TVL) in USD.

One primary driver for this growth is the anticipated expansion of the stablecoin market. Chalom believes this sector could grow to a staggering $500 billion, supported by major national economies and institutional giants like PayPal and JP Morgan entering the space.

In addition, Chalom foresees the tokenized real-world assets (RWAs) market reaching a considerable capitalization of $300 billion. He suggests that a tenfold increase in TVL for RWAs is plausible, bolstered by significant entries from firms such as Goldman Sachs, BNY Mellon, Franklin Templeton, and BlackRock, which are expected to make "massive moves" in this area.

Moreover, advancements in on-chain AI agents and prediction markets are projected to further enhance Ethereum's TVL in 2026. Businesses will likely favor Ethereum due to its strong security, stability, and widespread network value over competing platforms.

Chalom highlights the growing interest from both institutional and retail investors in Ethereum and SharpLink's mission. This enthusiasm is also fueled by the potential shift of sovereign wealth in various forms, which could significantly increase Ethereum's utility and total value locked.

Given all these factors, Chalom expresses confidence in the future of Ethereum, stating, “That’s why I joined this year, and I am excited to keep building as we look forward to 2026. The upside couldn’t be more clear.”

SharpLink is currently managing over $2 billion in Ethereum as part of its digital asset treasury strategy, including investments in the Ethereum staking ecosystem.

Despite Ethereum's struggles in 2025, where its price remained approximately 40% below its August all-time high and around the $3,000 mark, the outlook remains robust as 2026 approaches.