SEC Clears DTCC to Begin Large-Scale Tokenization of US Securities in 2026

DTCC sec approval allows tokenization of major US securities on controlled blockchain systems.

DTC plans to offer digital versions of stocks, ETFs and treasuries with full investor protections.

Global interest in real world asset tokenization grows as forecasts show strong market expansion.

The US Securities and Exchange Commission granted a no-action letter to a subsidiary of the Depository Trust and Clearing Corporation( DTCC ). The approval allows the Depository Trust Company( DTC ) to introduce a controlled tokenization service for traditional securities

The letter confirms that the agency will not pursue enforcement if the service operates as described. The approval carries weight because the SEC rarely issues such letters. The decision follows a period of increased regulatory engagement with blockchain-based proposals.

Scope of the Tokenization Plan

The DTC plans to tokenize a group of highly liquid instruments. The list includes components of the Russell 1000 index, major index-tracking ETFs, and US Treasury bills, notes, and bonds. The digital versions will retain the same ownership rights, investor protections, and entitlements as their traditional forms

The service will run on pre-approved blockchains for three years. It is scheduled for launch in the second half of 2026. DTC participants and their clients will gain access to the system once it goes live. The DTCC aims to link legacy market operations with emerging digital rails through this structure.

Market Context and Industry Signals

The SEC decision adds to a growing list of regulatory actions involving blockchain projects. Earlier this year, DTCC launched a blockchain-powered platform for tokenized collateral management, enhancing global liquidity and capital efficiency. Two decentralized physical infrastructure network projects received similar treatment earlier this year. In late September, the agency also cleared investment advisers to work with state trust companies that act as crypto custodians

Another approval in August supported a tokenization proposal from Double Zero. These developments suggest a gradual shift in the agency’s stance toward digital asset infrastructure. Market observers note that the DTCC program offers a significant test case due to its scale and role in US markets.

Broader Tokenization Trends

The announcement arrives as tokenization activity expands globally. A tokenized gold investment fund launched in Singapore this week through Libeara and FundBridge Capital. The fund offers professional investors exposure to gold through blockchain-issued tokens. Research from Animoca Brands projects substantial growth for real-world asset tokenization

Analysts there estimate that traditional financial markets represent an addressable value of roughly $400 trillion. They point to private credit, treasury debt, commodities, stocks, alternative funds, and bonds as major segments. A recent security report from Skynet forecasts that tokenized real-world assets could reach $16 trillion by 2030. These assessments underline how traditional instruments are steadily moving onto digital platforms.

The DTCC program marks a major development within regulated markets and places tokenization closer to mainstream financial infrastructure.