Crypto Trends to Watch: DePIN, RWA Tokenization, SocialFi to Dominate by 2026

AI analysis has pinpointed several emerging trends in the crypto sector that are expected to dominate the industry by 2026. These trends include decentralized physical infrastructure networks (DePIN), real-world asset (RWA) tokenization, and blockchain-based social media platforms (SocialFi).

DePIN, or decentralized physical infrastructure networks, is a trend that leverages blockchain technology to decentralize the control and management of physical devices. This includes infrastructure such as storage, energy, bandwidth, and computing. DePIN is attractive to governments looking to improve their jurisdiction’s infrastructure via a decentralized, people-first approach. Proponents argue that it democratizes technological advancement, particularly in developing rural areas. A study by Zin et al. in June 2024 highlighted that DePIN addresses limitations of traditional infrastructure networks. Following an unprecedented power outage in parts of Spain, France, and Portugal, DePIN could offer a localized solution for reconfiguring power grids to decrease the risk of major blackouts. With a market value of $2.2 trillion and the potential to grow to $3.5 trillion by 2025, DePIN is a hotbed for innovation. Projects like Filecoin, Hivemapper, and Render Network have created hype around the sector, with startups following suit. A 2025 Messari report finds that DePIN projects have attracted an estimated $1 billion in venture capital since 2023, recognizing it as one of the most important sectors advancing the crypto economy.

RWA tokenization involves shifting traditional finance assets into blockchain-based signifiers, giving each claim both physical and digital value. Key categories gaining traction include tokenized debt and securities, real estate tokens, commodities, invoices and trade finance, and intangibles like intellectual property. According to a study from Fortune Business Insights, the global tokenization market is expected to hit $3.95 billion in 2025, up from $3.32 billion in 2024, and is projected to reach $12.83 billion by the end of 2032, with a compound annual growth rate of 18.3%. Traditional finance heavyweights like BlackRock, Franklin Templeton, and JPMorgan Chase have already embraced tokenization. JPMorgan Chase highlighted the potential for seamless and automated transactions across multiple asset types, revolutionizing the wealth management industry. The Dubai Land Department unveiled a government-backed tokenized real estate platform, planning to tokenize $16 billion worth of real estate by 2033, marking a major step in mainstream tokenized RWA adoption.

SocialFi platforms blend the decentralized nature of DeFi with the digital connectivity of traditional social media applications, offering features like censorship resistance, creator control, and direct-to-influencer monetization. According to a March 2025 report from Market.us, the global decentralized social network market size is expected to be worth around $61.8 billion by 2034, up from just $9.4 billion in 2024. The demand is driven by tech-savvy users and advocates of digital privacy disillusioned with conventional social media corporations. Platforms like Farcaster, Lens Protocol, Open Campus, and Friend.tech are shaking up the emerging DeFi social media sector. ChatGPT’s forward-looking analysis suggests that by 2026, one or more decentralized social networks could achieve a mainstream breakthrough, turning SocialFi into a leading crypto narrative.

As blockchain technology continues to evolve, these emerging trends offer new approaches to longstanding issues in technology, governance, and social connectivity. These trends are not just for insiders; they are shaping how we live, invest, and interact online. AI’s early analysis reveals that by 2026, these sectors could be leading the charge in the next crypto boom. Whether you’re an enthusiast, investor, or simply curious, now’s the time to learn, explore, and get ahead of the curve.