24/7 financial markets will enable continuous trading and faster capital flows by tokenizing assets and using digital rails; regulators (SEC, CFTC) are exploring frameworks for always-on markets, perpetual futures, and event prediction markets to modernize legacy capital markets.
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Regulators propose always-on markets and new rules for perpetual futures
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Tokenization can put stocks, bonds, real estate, and stablecoins on blockchain rails
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Solana and market participants are building roadmaps and products to enable internet capital markets
24/7 financial markets: regulators explore always-on trading and tokenization of assets; learn what this means for investors and markets — read more from COINOTAG.
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What are 24/7 financial markets and why do regulators support them?
24/7 financial markets are always-on trading venues that operate outside traditional market hours. US regulators (the SEC and CFTC) have proposed frameworks that could expand continuous trading, introduce rules for perpetual futures, and permit event prediction markets to better match a global, always-on economy.
How would tokenization enable always-on markets?
Tokenization converts real-world assets—stocks, bonds, fiat in stablecoins, private credit, and real estate—into digital tokens on blockchains. This creates programmable, composable assets that can settle instantly on digital rails, enabling continuous market access and faster capital movement.
The Solana Foundation published a roadmap to develop internet capital markets through 2027. Major firms are testing tokenized products, and some retail platforms have launched tokenized stock offerings in limited jurisdictions.
When could perpetual futures and event prediction markets appear?
Regulators suggested that perpetual futures—contracts without expiry—and event prediction markets could be brought into regulated frameworks if market structures and clearing systems meet investor-protection standards. Timelines depend on rulemaking, industry testing, and infrastructure readiness.
What safeguards are regulators emphasizing?
Regulatory guidance prioritizes market integrity, custody protections for tokenized assets, clear disclosure standards, and resilient settlement systems. Agencies highlight cross-market surveillance and interoperability as prerequisites to prevent fragmentation and systemic risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will 24/7 markets affect retail investors?
Always-on markets increase access and trading windows but may heighten volatility and require stronger investor education, custody protections, and real-time risk management tools to protect retail participants.
What assets can be tokenized today?
Stocks, bonds, fiat-like stablecoins, private credit, art, collectibles, and real estate are being tokenized. Adoption varies by jurisdiction and depends on legal frameworks and custodial models.
Key Takeaways
- Regulatory momentum: SEC and CFTC have signaled support for exploring always-on markets and new instrument frameworks.
- Tokenization impact: Converting real-world assets to tokens can enable continuous trading, faster settlement, and new financial products.
- Action for market participants: Firms should prioritize custody, compliance readiness, and resilient infrastructure to participate in internet capital markets.
How to prepare for tokenized internet capital markets
- Assess custody and operational models for tokenized assets.
- Implement real-time risk monitoring and 24/7 surveillance tools.
- Engage with regulators and adopt transparent disclosure practices.
Conclusion
24/7 financial markets and asset tokenization represent a structural shift that could modernize capitalism by enabling continuous trading and faster capital flows. Market participants, regulators, and infrastructure providers must collaborate on custody, compliance, and market integrity to realize these benefits. For ongoing coverage, follow COINOTAG updates.
