Recent discussions at the World Economic Forum in Davos offered a clearer picture of where digital assets are headed, with tokenization and artificial intelligence emerging as defining themes. Cleve Mesidor, Executive Director and board member of the Blockchain Foundation, shared insight into how conversations around crypto have shifted from speculation to practical implementation, while regulatory uncertainty continues to shape the pace of progress.
Tokenization stood out as the dominant topic in digital finance discussions at this year’s forum. Unlike earlier gatherings that leaned heavily on hype cycles around cryptocurrency prices, the tone in Davos reflected a more mature understanding of real-world use cases. Mesidor, who moderated several panels, said the focus was firmly on moving beyond pilot programs and toward meaningful adoption at scale.
She explained that tokenization now spans a wide range of applications, from fractional ownership of securities to digitizing physical assets such as gold. In the United States, progress is being made, particularly in real estate, where tokenization is gaining traction. Still, Mesidor noted that regulatory fragmentation remains a major obstacle, with inconsistent rules across jurisdictions slowing broader deployment.
That challenge has been underscored by recent developments in Washington. With Coinbase stepping back from support for a sweeping crypto bill intended to clarify oversight between the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, uncertainty around U.S. crypto regulation persists. Mesidor acknowledged the setback but emphasized that many industry participants continue to push for a cohesive market structure, recognizing that regulatory clarity is essential to long-term innovation.
Mesidor stressed the importance of bipartisan cooperation in shaping digital asset policy. She warned that without clear and coordinated regulation, the United States risks falling behind other countries that are moving more decisively. Nations such as the United Arab Emirates and Brazil are already positioning themselves as leaders in tokenization, intensifying global competition for capital and technological leadership.
Artificial intelligence was another major focus at the forum. Mesidor noted that discussions increasingly centered on how AI can enhance blockchain applications, from improving security and compliance to optimizing trading and settlement processes. The convergence of AI and blockchain, she said, has the potential to accelerate innovation across digital finance.
Beyond financial services, Mesidor pointed to the broader impact of AI in sectors such as healthcare and climate technology. She argued that countries willing to invest in AI infrastructure and talent stand to gain a competitive edge, as these technologies are likely to shape economic outcomes far beyond crypto markets.
The overall tone in Davos was cautiously optimistic. Mesidor said there was a shared recognition that harmonizing regulatory frameworks across borders will be critical to unlocking the full potential of digital assets. International cooperation, she believes, can help create an environment where innovation thrives without sacrificing consumer protection or market integrity.
While regulatory uncertainty remains a key concern, the conversations at the World Economic Forum signaled growing acceptance of digital assets as a transformative force. From tokenized markets to AI-driven efficiencies, the direction of travel is becoming clearer. Mesidor emphasized that collaboration among policymakers, industry leaders, and technologists will be essential to ensure that the next phase of digital asset development is not only innovative, but also inclusive and sustainable.