Tokenized Gold Rally Raises Question If Bitcoin Remains Digital Gold as DeFi Lending and IRAs Gain Traction

• Tokenized gold enables one-to-one digital representation of physical bullion for DeFi yield and IRA use.

• DeFi lending activity and real-world asset tokenization are driving institutional inflows into crypto markets.

• Gold climbed ~35% YTD to record highs above $3,600/oz; tokenized products and stablecoins now underpin growing RWA markets.

tokenized gold surges as IRAs and DeFi expand — learn how vaulted gold goes onchain, market data, institutional trends and next steps.

How can US IRAs access tokenized gold?

Tokenized gold allows US self-directed IRAs to represent vaulted bullion onchain via one-to-one tokens, preserving tax-deferred status while enabling use in DeFi protocols. SmartGold’s partnership with Chintai Nexus tokenizes IRA-held bullion so holders can deploy tokens into lending markets for yield.

What is the process for IRA tokenization?

Custodians vault physical gold and issue corresponding blockchain tokens on a one-to-one basis. Investors opt in to convert their IRA-held bullion into a digital token, which remains backed by the same physical asset and retains the IRA’s tax treatment.

Why is DeFi lending surging on the real-world asset boom?

DeFi lending is rising as stablecoin liquidity and tokenized real-world assets (RWAs) attract institutional capital. Increased issuance of tokenized private credit, US Treasuries and tokenized commodities is expanding usable collateral and yield opportunities on-chain.

What does recent market data show?

Industry data indicates total value locked in DeFi lending protocols climbed materially this year, and RWA markets expanded to nearly $28 billion, led by tokenized credit and Treasury products. Gold-backed tokens and large stablecoins are notable contributors to network activity.

What drove gold to record highs above $3,600?

Gold has outperformed many assets in 2025, gaining roughly 35% year-to-date amid geopolitical uncertainty and heavy central bank buying. Widening fiscal deficits and inflation skepticism also pushed investors toward safe-haven allocations, supporting the rally.

How is tokenization changing institutional access to gold?

Tokenization enables institutional and retirement capital to move gold onto blockchains without changing the underlying custody model. Providers are packaging vaulted bullion into tokens usable across DeFi, increasing liquidity and enabling yield strategies previously limited to fiat and credit markets.

What are the implications for DeFi and RWAs?

Tokenized RWAs, including tokenized gold, are broadening usable collateral sets for DeFi lending and markets. Market data shows a rapid expansion in RWA issuance, with tokenized credit and Treasuries leading growth and attracting institutional counterparties.

When could Figure Technology’s IPO affect the crypto landscape?

Figure Technology Solutions has filed to raise up to $526 million in a potential US IPO at a valuation above $4 billion. If priced as filed, the deal could add public-market capital and visibility to blockchain-native finance firms and drive investor interest in Provenance-based products.

How did Gryphon’s merger with American Bitcoin unfold?

Shareholders approved a merger combining Gryphon Digital Mining with American Bitcoin. The transaction included a reverse stock split and results in the combined firm trading under the ticker ABTC. The merged entity positions itself as a dedicated Bitcoin mining operator.

Source: Binance Research

Frequently Asked Questions

Is tokenized gold fully backed by physical bullion?

Yes. Reputable tokenization schemes issue tokens on a one-to-one basis, with each token representing a specific amount of vaulted physical gold held by audited custodians and subject to regular verification.

Can tokenized gold be used directly in DeFi lending?

Yes. Once tokenized, gold tokens can be supplied to DeFi lending protocols that accept the asset, enabling holders to earn yield while retaining exposure to physical gold prices.

Key Takeaways

• Tokenized gold: Enables IRA and institutional access to bullion onchain while preserving one-to-one backing.
• DeFi lending growth: Stablecoins and RWAs are driving increased total value locked and institutional participation.
• Market impact: Gold’s YTD surge and new tokenized products signal expanding intersections between traditional safe havens and digital finance.

Conclusion

Tokenized gold is reshaping how investors and IRAs access bullion, blending traditional custody with onchain utility. As DeFi lending and RWA markets mature, tokenized commodities may become a standard part of diversified portfolios. Stay informed on custody, audit practices and protocol integrations before allocating capital.

Published: 2025-09-05 | Updated: 2025-09-05 | Author: COINOTAG