In a groundbreaking move, Bybit, the world's second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, has announced the listing of xStocks—a revolutionary series of tokenized U.S. equities and ETFs—on its Spot platform. This development marks a significant step in bridging the gap between traditional finance and the digital economy, offering users seamless access to global financial markets through blockchain technology.
The introduction of xStocks is made possible through a strategic partnership with Backed, a Swiss-based issuer of tokenized financial instruments. Launched by Backed in May 2025, xStocks includes over 60 U.S.-listed equities and ETFs, such as Apple, Tesla, NVIDIA, and SPY, each tokenized and pegged 1:1 to their real-world counterparts, ensuring value accuracy and transparency.
These tokenized assets are designed for wide accessibility, being freely transferable and compatible with both Ethereum (ERC-20) and Solana (SPL) networks. This compatibility allows users to trade and manage these assets across various centralized and decentralized platforms, enhancing flexibility and reach.
Bybit's initiative aligns with its mission to integrate traditional and digital finance, providing crypto enthusiasts and traditional investors alike with innovative tools to diversify their portfolios. The listing of xStocks on Bybit's platform empowers users to engage with Wall Street assets without the traditional barriers of entry, such as complex brokerage accounts or geographical restrictions.
This move comes at a time when tokenization of real-world assets (RWAs) is gaining momentum in the crypto space, with several exchanges exploring on-chain stock trading. Bybit's collaboration with Backed positions it as a frontrunner in this emerging trend, potentially setting a new standard for how financial markets operate in the blockchain era.
As Bybit continues to expand its offerings, the launch of xStocks is expected to attract a broader audience, from seasoned traders to newcomers curious about the intersection of crypto and traditional finance. This development not only enhances Bybit's platform but also underscores the transformative potential of blockchain technology in reshaping global markets.