WisdomTree has introduced a new platform called WisdomTree Connect to give users access to tokenized real-world assets.
The platform aims to make tokenized assets more accessible to businesses and institutional users, allowing them to integrate traditional financial products with DeFi systems, according to a press release from WisdomTree.
Tokenization refers to the process of turning traditional assets, like money market funds, into digital tokens that can be used on blockchain networks.
The new platform enables users to buy and hold WisdomTree digital funds in their own digital wallets, which can either be self-hosted or managed by a third party. For businesses and financial institutions, the platform provides a way to streamline transactions that would normally require multiple steps, such as converting crypto into traditional fiat money to buy financial products.
WisdomTree Connect will address this by allowing firms to purchase yield-generating products directly using blockchain technology, eliminating several steps.
For instance, businesses using stablecoins — crypto designed to maintain a stable value—will be able to buy products like the WisdomTree Government Money Market Digital Fund without needing to leave the blockchain ecosystem.
In July, Jonathan Steinberg, CEO of WisdomTree, expressed confidence that cryptocurrency adoption would accelerate with increased regulatory clarity. He also predicted that crypto would become mainstream as an asset class amid trends such as tokenization.
WisdomTree Connect availability
WisdomTree Connect will initially be available through a web portal and API, according to the release, with plans to expand how users interact with the platform. The platform will support transactions in U.S. dollars and the USDC (USDC) stablecoin, which is pegged to the U.S. dollar. This feature adds flexibility for users who need to convert between fiat currency and crypto.
Tokens on the platform will initially be minted on the Ethereum (ETH) blockchain, with additional blockchains to be supported later. WisdomTree’s new infrastructure is designed to offer businesses and institutions a secure, on-chain way to access traditional financial products, bridging the gap between decentralized and traditional finance.
In March, WisdomTree received approval from the NYDFS to operate as a limited liability trust company, allowing it to offer crypto services such as stablecoin issuance and reserves management.
The firm also launched its WisdomTree Prime app and continues its efforts to advance tokenized asset management and a spot Bitcoin ETF after previous rejections by the SEC.