Is Bitcoin’s Drop Just a Temporary Correction? Explosive Rally Expected After Global Regulatory Framework Is Established

▲ Bitcoin, cryptocurrency ©

The virtual asset market in 2026 is expected to experience an unprecedented structural leap, driven by clearer global regulations, explosive growth in real-world asset (RWA) tokenization, and deeper integration between Web2 and Web3.

According to cryptocurrency-focused media outlet Finbold on February 23 (local time), Volodymyr Nosov, founder and CEO of European crypto exchange WhiteBIT, stated that blockchain adoption continues to expand despite rising cybersecurity threats and a shortage of developers. Citing Chainalysis data, he emphasized that the number of digital asset holders worldwide has already surpassed 600 million, underscoring the industry’s rapid progress toward mainstream adoption.

This year, in particular, is expected to mark a decisive turning point as clear digital asset regulatory frameworks are introduced, encouraging more conservative traditional financial institutions to enter the market. Nosov explained that the convergence of traditional finance and decentralized technology is becoming increasingly solid, with major investors already diversifying their portfolios through cryptocurrency ETFs. He further projected that the steady rollout of new investment products will establish cryptocurrencies as an indispensable pillar of the global economy.

The rapid growth of the real-world asset tokenization market is also seen as a key driver set to dramatically boost market liquidity. As the tokenization of traditional assets such as real estate and securities enhances investor accessibility, the market is projected to expand from $2.08 trillion in 2025 to over $3.01 trillion this year, reaching $18.74 trillion by 2031. The London Stock Exchange Group has already completed blockchain-based transactions, while Saudi Arabia has formed a strategic partnership with WhiteBIT to tokenize its stock market and develop a central bank digital currency, signaling accelerating adoption at national and institutional levels.

However, for the market to mature, it must overcome significant barriers, including complacency about security and a lack of financial literacy. Nosov pointed out that the shortage of skilled professionals in the industry leads to software vulnerabilities, declaring that strengthening in-house IT capabilities is the only viable solution to survive constant cyber threats. He also stressed the need to expand educational infrastructure, including establishing specialized blockchain programs in partnership with universities, noting that more than 60% of those aware of cryptocurrencies do not even understand the basic principles of smart contracts.

Recent price volatility in the cryptocurrency market, including leading asset Bitcoin (BTC), is interpreted as a temporary correction reflecting broader macroeconomic conditions. To restore trust among institutions and individual investors shaken by past hacking incidents and platform collapses, transparency, robust security standards, and strict regulatory compliance must come first. If these challenges are successfully addressed, 2026 could become a historic milestone year in which virtual assets seamlessly integrate into everyday financial activities.

Disclaimer: This article is for investment reference only and the publisher is not responsible for any investment losses incurred based on it. The content should be interpreted solely for informational purposes.