Global banking institution Citi has indicated that the year 2025 could mark a significant turning point for the widespread adoption of blockchain technology. The report emphasizes the potential pioneering role of stablecoins in this evolution.
Citi’s 2025 Crypto Predictions
Citi analysts assert that current technological advancements will accelerate the growth of the stablecoin market.
“2025 could resemble a breakout moment for blockchain technology akin to ChatGPT.” – Citi Analysts
According to analyses, stablecoins indexed to traditional currencies (such as the US dollar) are expected to see an increasing usage rate in global payments and money transfers. Significant tokens like Tether’s $145 billion USDT and Circle’s $60 billion USDC are recognized as frontrunners in this growth. Citi predicts that the stablecoin market could expand from $230 billion to $1.6 trillion by 2030 in a baseline scenario, while a more optimistic scenario could see this figure reach $3.7 trillion. However, in light of potential risks and regulatory hurdles, a more conservative estimate suggests that the market could only hit $500 billion.
Regulation and Financial Impacts
The supportive regulatory stance in the United States is deemed one of the key factors that could influence these developments. A recent presidential order has called for the establishment of a federal framework for digital assets. Achieving regulatory clarity may facilitate deeper integration of stablecoins into the financial system, enhancing speed and transparency in payments.
The report forecasts that stablecoins will largely remain tied to the US dollar in the future, predicting that by 2030, around 90% of circulating stablecoins will be dollar-indexed. This situation could lead to a rise in demand for US Treasury bonds among stablecoin issuers, potentially resulting in a $1.2 trillion share of US government debt by the end of 2030.
Furthermore, the trend of central banks in Europe and Asia introducing their own digital currencies (CBDCs) is highlighted. These developments could create new dynamics within the global financial system.
The report also notes that stablecoins faced nearly 1,900 de-pegging incidents in 2023, with over 600 examples occurring in significant tokens. Sudden large withdrawals, as seen in the case of USDC following the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank, could trigger liquidity issues and automated selling waves, leading to market turbulence.
In light of current developments, it is anticipated that financial markets and regulatory bodies may encounter various risks and uncertainties as they take steps towards the future of stablecoins and digital assets.
