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The shift to tokenization in global payments: an analysis

Tokenization Gains Traction Amid ISO20022 Mandate | Institutions Eye Future of Crypto Assets

By

Amina Khan

Nov 23, 2025, 06:39 PM

Edited By

Fatima Javed

2 minutes to read

Illustration showing digital finance concepts with tokens and symbols representing secure transactions across borders.

A recent push for ISO20022 compliance in cross-border payments is setting the stage for enhanced tokenization of financial assets. With 11,500 banks facing deadlines, the urgency is evident in comments across forums, igniting discussions about the future of crypto.

What’s the Big Deal?

The transition to ISO20022 promises to open doors for tokenized assets, streamlining processes and boosting efficiency. Experts argue that this is not just a trend but a critical evolution in how financial systems operate. "Soon enough, just the financial part of an average person will probably be on chain without them knowing," a participant noted.

Major Themes Emerging in Discussions

  1. Skepticism Towards Token Projects

    Many people are expressing doubt, with phrases like "Welcome to 99% of altcoins in crypto" echoing throughout conversations.

  2. Technological Fear

    A significant concern is how the market may decouple from traditional cryptocurrencies, especially Bitcoin, which some see as losing its relevance.

  3. Patience Required for Adoption

    Users indicate that while progress is being made, it’s still early, stating "It’s pretty clear where things are headed if you’re paying attention."

Institutional Movement

Banks like UBS have already begun utilizing blockchain technology for tokenized assets, which indicates a solid commitment to this evolving financial framework. Notably, banks are collaborating with platforms that have been in development for over five years.

"It’s still early, but it’s clear where things are headed."

Key Takeaways:

  • πŸš€ Extensive groundwork: 11500 banks must comply with ISO20022.

  • πŸ”— Collaboration with tech: Swift's involvement with Chainlink shows serious industry intentions.

  • πŸ’Έ Growing tokenization interest: Institutions are eager to adopt token processes as mandates take effect.

The stir around tokenization is not just a passing trend but hints at a broader shift in global economics. As institutions begin to embrace these new protocols, will people navigate this change effectively? The coming years could define how assets are managed and traded in a rapidly evolving financial environment.

Future Financial Landscape

Experts estimate around 70% of financial institutions will adopt tokenization processes within the next five years, driven mainly by regulatory compliance and the need for efficiency in transactions. The urgency created by the ISO20022 mandate enhances the likelihood of quicker integration. As this shift unfolds, banks will likely facilitate more innovative payment solutions, expanding access to tokenized assets. With this evolution, there's a strong chance that everyday financial activities will seamlessly blend traditional and digital assets, fundamentally transforming how people view and handle money.

A Historical Twist

Reflecting on the rise of email in the late 1990s, many initially dismissed it as a fleeting trend, suggesting fax machines would remain the preferred method of communication forever. Just as businesses then adjusted by integrating email to enhance communication efficiency, financial institutions today may find themselves equally compelled to embrace tokenization. As they adapt to this emerging landscape, the lessons from that era remind us of the power of technology to disrupt and redefine accepted norms in unexpected ways.