A new report from Kraken details the seven trends it believes will shape 2025. They begin with increased regulatory clarity. That is key for improved investor confidence.
Kraken said such improvements will drive innovation and growth in the United States. A recent survey found that 92% of crypto holders are hopeful crypto and blockchain can help modernize the U.S. economy.
“The outcome of these regulatory developments could ultimately determine the rules and policies of the crypto market for years to come,” the report stated. “These decisions have the potential to not just affect U.S. citizens, but crypto holders around the world.”
DeFi will solidify its place with TradFi institutions. Many companies are experimenting with DeFi as they seek efficiency, transparency and access to a global financial ecosystem without intermediaries. Such investments send positive market messages.
“Partnerships and forward-looking initiatives like these are crucial in demonstrating how DeFi can complement TradFi and further legitimize the space,” Kraken said. “As critical financial service providers like Visa and PayPal enable crypto payments, they also signal belief in crypto and its legitimacy as a financial asset.”
Look for stablecoins to empower a new wave of crypto investors. Visa said stablecoins support one billion annual transactions worth north of $8 trillion. Singapore is experimenting with them in cross-border trade.
Crypto solutions will be increasingly used across industries. Tokenization allows investors to participate in new areas like real estate and art. Artists can create NFTs as an alternative revenue source.
“Even some of the largest financial services companies in the world, like BlackRock, are experimenting with their tokenization initiatives,” the report reads. “In 2024, BlackRock partnered with Securitize (a fully digital securities issuance platform) to launch its first tokenized fund on the Ethereum network.”
Memecoins will continue their popularity, driven by passionate communities and vibrant social media discussions.
“The growth of memecoins relies heavily on their popularity with platforms like X, Reddit and TikTok,” Kraken said.
AI and crypto integrations are increasing. A proposed merger between SingularityNET, Fetch.ai and Ocean Protocol is one sign of this trend.
Enhanced security and privacy features must be key growth drivers. Close to half of United States cryptocurrency holders rank improved security and anti-fraud standards as the top policy decision they want from their next president; 43% cited stronger consumer protection measures.