Gold Tokenization Sparks a New Wave: On-Chain Yield-Bearing Capabilities Break Traditional ETF Patterns

Gold tokenization is becoming one of the most promising tracks in the tokenization of real-world assets (RWA). According to the latest news, Dr. Tang Bo, Assistant Dean of the Institute of Financial Research at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, stated that the value of gold as a safe-haven asset is returning, and tokenization technology will give this ancient asset a new financial attribute. Meanwhile, the core innovation of gold tokens—the on-chain yield-generating capability—is breaking the inherent model of traditional gold investment.

Core Differences in Gold Tokenization

Gold Token vs. Gold ETF

Gold tokenization may seem similar to traditional gold ETFs, but the key differences are:

The Significance of On-Chain Yield

The most critical innovation of gold tokens is their on-chain yield-generating ability. This not only transforms gold from a passive safe-haven asset into a yield-bearing financial instrument but also further activates its financial properties through collateralized lending and other methods. This means holders can:

• Earn additional income while maintaining ownership of gold
• Use gold as collateral to participate in lending markets
• Access various yield opportunities within the DeFi ecosystem

Market Outlook Analysis

Why Gold?

Gold, as a traditional safe-haven asset, has an inherent consensus on its value. Dr. Tang Bo pointed out that gold’s value is returning. In the context of increasing global economic uncertainty, gold’s safe-haven properties are becoming even more prominent. Tokenization technology has given this ancient asset new life, preserving gold’s security while endowing it with modern financial flexibility.

Personal Viewpoint

The potential of this track lies in its combination of two needs: the security of traditional assets and the efficiency of blockchain. Gold tokenization is not simply about putting assets on the chain; it redefines gold’s role in the digital age through tokenization. Compared to other RWA tracks, gold tokenization has a more solid foundation—because gold itself has a globally recognized value.

Summary

Gold tokenization represents an important development direction within the RWA track. Its core innovation—the on-chain yield-generating capability—breaks the passive income model of traditional gold investment, giving this ancient asset new financial attributes. As tokenization technology improves and market acceptance increases, gold tokens are expected to become a vital bridge connecting traditional assets and digital finance. For investors, this not only offers new asset allocation options but also endows gold, a traditional safe-haven asset, with modern significance.