Standard Chartered analysts forecast that assets locked in decentralized finance will grow to $2.7 trillion by 2030 [1], [2].
This projection suggests a fundamental shift in global finance as traditional assets migrate to blockchain protocols. If realized, this growth would represent a 37-fold increase from current levels [3].
The analysts said the surge will be driven by the tokenization of real-world assets, often referred to as RWAs. These include physical or traditional financial assets converted into digital tokens on a blockchain. The forecast also accounts for the increased flow of crypto-native assets moving through on-chain protocols [1], [2].
While the $2.7 trillion figure focuses on assets locked specifically within DeFi by 2030 [1], other projections suggest a broader trend. Some estimates indicate that tokenized assets on public blockchains could reach $4 trillion by 2028 [4].
Decentralized finance removes traditional intermediaries, such as banks and brokers, replacing them with smart contracts. The movement of real-world assets into this ecosystem could allow for faster settlement and greater liquidity for previously illiquid assets.
Standard Chartered analysts said the combination of these factors will boost the total value locked in the DeFi ecosystem over the next several years [1], [2].
“Assets locked in decentralized finance will grow to $2.7 trillion by 2030”
The transition of real-world assets into DeFi represents a bridge between traditional capital markets and blockchain technology. By converting tangible assets into tokens, financial institutions can automate compliance and trading, potentially reducing the costs associated with legacy banking infrastructure.
