Sygnum Forecasts Bitcoin Reserves and Tokenization Expansion in 2026

Sygnum, a crypto banking group, has identified emerging opportunities in blockchain technology for 2026. The firm anticipates a shift toward sovereign Bitcoin reserves and broader tokenized financial infrastructure, driven by anticipated regulatory clarity.

U.S. legislative developments, such as the CLARITY Act and potential passage of the Bitcoin Act, may offer a legal foundation for increased blockchain adoption. Sygnum suggests that clearer rules could inspire more confidence in Bitcoin as a treasury asset and accelerate its integration into global financial systems.

The report forecasts that at least three G20 or G20-equivalent economies may adopt Bitcoin as part of their sovereign reserves. The firm notes that early adoption could lead to strategic advantages in securing Bitcoin at lower prices, potentially creating a competitive race among nations.

Why Did This Happen?

Regulatory uncertainty has long been a barrier to blockchain adoption. Sygnum's analysis suggests that upcoming legislative actions could reduce this uncertainty and encourage institutional adoption. For instance, Brazil, Japan, Germany, Hong Kong, and Poland are identified as potential early adopters due to their financial challenges and openness to innovative solutions.

In 2025, Brazil’s House of Representatives held a hearing on a national Bitcoin reserve proposal, while Hong Kong legislators proposed a similar initiative. In Japan, a proposal was made to convert part of the foreign exchange reserves into Bitcoin. Germany’s AfD party also urged the government to consider creating a national Bitcoin reserve.

How Did Markets React?

Bitcoin ETFs have experienced significant inflows in early 2026. Spot Bitcoin ETFs attracted $1.7 billion in three days, with BlackRock's iShares Bitcoin ETF leading with $648 million in inflows. The inflows coincided with Bitcoin reaching two-month highs above $97,000.

The surge in demand has been attributed to institutional buying and increased sentiment among investors. Bitcoin’s price has shown a strong correlation with institutional demand, indicating that large-scale purchases and ETF inflows are driving the market up.

What Are Analysts Watching Next?

Blockchain infrastructure is expanding beyond cryptocurrencies into real-world assets. In Southeast Asia, a pilot program in Jakarta aims to tokenize water treatment sites, with plans to raise $35 million for facility upgrades. The initiative plans to scale to $200 million in tokenized assets across the region.

Meanwhile, tokenized real-world assets (RWAs) have grown significantly. Tokenized Treasuries reached $8.86 billion, while institutional funds grew from $350 million to $2.84 billion in 2025. These developments suggest that tokenization is becoming a viable alternative for asset management and investment.

Major financial institutions are also exploring tokenized solutions. Bank of New York Mellon has launched tokenized deposit services, allowing clients to use blockchain rails for faster payments and collateral transactions. JPMorgan and other banks are developing similar services, signaling a broader shift in traditional finance toward blockchain-based systems.

The expansion of tokenized assets is not limited to traditional financial institutions. Startups like Mova and Naoris Protocol are integrating post-quantum security into payment and settlement systems, addressing future threats from quantum computing.

Canton Network is also advancing on-chain repo activity to support multi-currency and cross-border transactions. The initiative, involving firms like LSEG and Euroclear, aims to streamline collateral management and improve liquidity for market participants.

The growing interest in tokenization and digital assets is expected to influence global economic policies. As traditional financial systems adapt to blockchain technology, new regulatory frameworks and international cooperation will play a crucial role in shaping the future of finance.