OKX, a leading crypto exchange, in collaboration with Blockworks Research, has unveiled a new report titled “The Future of Blockchain Applications: Reshaping Global Industries.” The report outlines how blockchain technology will fundamentally transform the finance, technology, consumer goods, and entertainment sectors over the next 25 years. Drawing on interviews with experts from top firms like Visa, Google Cloud, Amazon Web Services, and Manchester City FC, the report projects that up to 10% of the world’s GDP could be tokenized on blockchain platforms by 2027, with tokenized real-world assets potentially reaching $600 billion in value by 2030.
The study also explores the emerging convergence between blockchain and artificial intelligence, predicting a future where these two technologies work symbiotically. According to Rich Widmann, Head of Web3 Strategy at Google Cloud, blockchain technology is fostering a world where digital intelligence can transact seamlessly, streamlining everyday processes and transactions without the need for traditional interfaces.
OKX Australia CEO Kate Cooper noted that Australia is well-positioned to lead this technological shift in the Asia-Pacific region, citing a 719% surge in Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) crypto allocations over the past five years. “With strong infrastructure and supportive regulations, Australia has a pivotal opportunity to shape blockchain’s regional future,” she added.
Industry-Specific Impacts: Finance, Tech, and Brands
In finance, the report notes that institutional investors are increasingly drawn to digital assets, with many already developing infrastructure to issue and manage tokenized financial products. Stablecoins are gaining traction in global payments, and crypto exchanges are reshaping traditional trading by offering 24/7 markets and faster settlement options. More than two-thirds of financial services respondents said they are actively preparing for a tokenized future.
On the technology front, the fusion of blockchain technology with AI, cloud computing, and privacy-enhancing tools is creating new paradigms. Developers are exploring how blockchain can decentralize AI development while preserving user privacy and control. The report suggests this triad of innovation could evolve into a multi-trillion-dollar digital economy, transforming how data, applications, and networks are designed and secured.
For brand and consumer goods, major players such as Walmart and luxury brands like LVMH are using blockchain technology for supply chain transparency and digital authentication. Concepts like digital product passports, smart contracts, and NFTs are expected to revolutionize customer interaction, brand loyalty, and the blending of physical and digital assets.
Fan Engagement and Creator Economy in the Spotlight
The sports and entertainment sectors are also experiencing a blockchain technology-driven evolution. Teams and leagues are adopting blockchain to engage fans through digital collectibles, fan tokens, and immersive experiences. Organizations are also exploring the metaverse and blockchain-powered sports betting as new revenue channels.
For content creators, blockchain presents a shift in power. Unlike current models where revenues are heavily shared with platforms, blockchain offers greater control and profit share for artists in music, film, and gaming. Gaming in particular is seeing major disruption, with play-to-earn models and interoperable ecosystems allowing gamers to be rewarded and fund future participation.
OKX CMO Haider Rafique summarized the report’s impact, saying, “Blockchain technology will redefine industries and create new global economic structures.” Blockworks Co-Founder Jason Yanowitz added, “This is not just technological evolution, it’s a redefinition of how value is created and exchanged worldwide.”
