Singapore is once again becoming a major meeting point for the global cryptocurrency industry as Token2049 brings thousands of industry leaders, investors and builders to Marina Bay Sands. The Oct. 7–8 conference is expected to attract about 25,000 participants, with more than 500 exhibitors and 300 speakers taking part.
The event comes at a time when the crypto market is showing renewed strength. Bitcoin climbed from around US$58,000 at the end of June to about US$86,000, raising hopes that the prolonged crypto downturn could come to an end.
For investors and industry participants, Token2049 offers an opportunity to assess whether the latest recovery can develop into a broader bull market. Dovey Wan, founding partner of Primitive Ventures, said: “I’ve been one of the few attending Token2049 since the first one in 2018; looking back highlights just how far this asset class has matured. Through every boom and bust, staying in the game with those who built from day one is what truly matters.”
Bitcoin Rally Improves Sentiment, but Caution Remains
Bitcoin recorded a 43% gain in the three months through September, its strongest quarterly performance since late 2024. The recovery has improved market confidence following a difficult period for digital assets.
However, investors remain cautious. Bitcoin has struggled to break above US$87,000, while rising Treasury yields are creating pressure on speculative investments. Haseeb Qureshi, managing partner at Dragonfly, described the current mood as “definitely not euphoria”.
The market has also faced regulatory setbacks, including the US Senate’s failure to advance the Clarity Act. At the same time, greater institutional participation and wider use of stablecoins have helped strengthen confidence in the sector.
Crypto and Traditional Finance Continue to Converge
One of the biggest themes at Token2049 is the growing relationship between crypto and traditional finance. Financial assets such as bonds, commodities, and equities are increasingly being placed on blockchain networks.
The value of tokenized real-world assets exceeded US$38 billion at the end of September, excluding stable coins, highlighting the rapid expansion of the sector.
The conference’s speaker lineup also reflects this convergence, with crypto executives appearing alongside traditional finance leaders such as Nasdaq CEO Adena Friedman and Franklin Templeton CEO Jenny Johnson.
AI, Security and Regulation Define Crypto’s Next Chapter
Artificial intelligence is expected to be another major focus, particularly on the development of “agentic payments,” where AI systems can make payments or conduct transactions for users.
Security will also remain a key concern after a series of major attacks, including the US$388 million theft at crypto exchange Bitget. Bitget CEO Gracy Chen said the conference provides an opportunity to compare the company’s priorities with wider industry trends.
Chen also called for greater involvement from regulators and policymakers, saying some major issues “cannot be answered by the industry alone”.
With Singapore recording US$284 billion in crypto activity between July 2025 and June 2026, Token2049 is positioning the city as a key venue for shaping the next phase of the digital-asset industry.
