Despite ongoing pressure on cryptocurrency prices, Ric Edelman emphasizes that institutional adoption and tokenization are rapidly advancing behind the scenes.
By AI Boost|Edited by Jennifer Sanasie Jun 22, 2026, 8:58 p.m. 2 min readMake preferred on ShareShare this articleCopy linkX (Twitter)LinkedInFacebookEmailMake preferred onRecent insights: Edelman points out a disconnect between investor sentiment and the underlying fundamentals of the industry.
- In recent days, Bitcoin ETF investors have withdrawn billions from funds, amid rising concerns related to Mt. Gox wallet movements and regulatory uncertainties, according to Edelman.
- The ongoing discussions surrounding the CLARITY Act have contributed to this uncertainty, with lawmakers such as Sen. Bernie Sanders and Sen. Elizabeth Warren advocating for stricter crypto regulations, as noted by Edelman.
- This has resulted in a market increasingly focused on negative news, while leading financial institutions continue to expand their crypto initiatives.
- Edelman appeared on CoinDesk's Public Keys with Jennifer Sanasie.
The contrasting trend: Major Wall Street firms are ramping up their crypto engagement despite the prevailing negative market sentiment.
- Firms like BlackRock, JPMorgan, Morgan Stanley, Franklin Templeton, Fidelity, State Street, and Invesco are all making strides in tokenization, according to Edelman.
- Tokenization efforts are now extending beyond crypto assets to include equities, cash, and ETFs, Edelman added.
- Institutional investors are increasingly interested in gaining crypto exposure, with many planning initial allocations or enhancing existing investments, he stated.
Looking ahead: The outcome of the CLARITY Act could significantly impact the crypto markets in the coming months.
- Edelman indicated that if the bill passes, it would likely serve as a substantial catalyst by providing clearer regulatory frameworks for institutional investors.
- Conversely, delays or failures in passing the bill could lead to short-term negative market reactions as investors reevaluate their regulatory expectations.
- He also mentioned that political developments leading up to the midterm elections will affect the momentum of crypto policy.
Interpreting the dynamics: The political coalition supporting crypto is beginning to show signs of tension.
- Edelman noted that the disagreements between crypto advocates and the banking sector have become more evident during discussions about the CLARITY Act.
- While initial conflicts stemmed from stablecoin yield discussions, he indicated that the more pressing issue now relates to proposed ethical restrictions on crypto trading by government officials.
- The outcomes of these discussions could determine whether the industry retains its recent political clout.
Future outlook: Edelman maintains a positive outlook on Bitcoin and blockchain infrastructure for the long term.
- He believes that Bitcoin could still have a strong year-end performance, although regulatory decisions will greatly affect its short-term trajectory.
- Ethereum and Solana continue to play crucial roles in the tokenization and smart contract landscape, he added.
- Institutions are currently prioritizing short-term career risks over long-term portfolio opportunities, a situation Edelman expects will evolve as more firms enter the crypto space.
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CEX Volumes Drop to Lowest Since September 2024 as RWA Perps Hit Record High
CEX Volumes Drop to Lowest Since September 2024 as RWA Perps Hit Record High
In May, combined exchange volumes fell 3.45% to $4.41T; the lowest since September 2024. RWA perpetual futures volumes rose 10.4% against the trend, hitting a new all-time high.
By CoinDesk ResearchJun 15, 2026In May, combined exchange volumes fell 3.45% to $4.41T; the lowest since September 2024. RWA perpetual futures volumes rose 10.4% against the trend, hitting a new all-time high.
Why it matters:
In May, combined exchange volumes fell 3.45% to $4.41T; the lowest since September 2024. RWA perpetual futures volumes rose 10.4% against the trend, hitting a new all-time high.
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