Investors globally can now engage with U.S. stocks beyond traditional market hours, thanks to advancements in tokenized shares and self-custody wallets. Platforms such as Bitget Wallet enable users to acquire fractions of popular companies like Apple, Tesla, and Nvidia, providing the opportunity to trade 24/7 without the need for a broker or currency conversion.
Jamie Elkaleh, the Chief Marketing Officer of Bitget Wallet, emphasized that wallets have evolved beyond mere storage tools; they are becoming gateways to global market participation. This development is particularly significant for individuals in regions where access to brokerage services is limited, as it allows them to invest in U.S. equities for the first time.
The concept of integrating real-world assets onto blockchain is not entirely new. Early initiatives like MakerDAO, along with synthetic equity platforms such as Mirror and Synthetix, demonstrated potential for this model. However, these early projects faced challenges including liquidity issues, regulatory uncertainties, and a lack of trust.
The downfall of major exchanges like FTX also unveiled vulnerabilities in past stock token systems. In response to these challenges, a new generation of platforms is emerging, aiming to address the shortcomings of their predecessors. Today’s tokenized shares are backed directly by real securities, undergoing regular audits and being structured with investor protections in mind, creating a more secure investment landscape.
This shift indicates a significant transformation in how investors can access global markets, paving the way for a more inclusive and accessible trading environment.