Ripple President Monica Long stated that the crypto market is entering what many call its “production era. She believes that by 2026, banks and major companies will fully use crypto-based solutions, not just test them.
According to her, crypto is becoming a core part of modern finance and could reach 50% of Fortune 500 companies.
Here’s what Monica Long’s top 2026 crypto market prediction points out.
One of the strongest predictions for 2026 focuses on stablecoins. Long expects stablecoins to be deeply integrated into global payment systems, not as an additional option, but as a core payment layer.
Major companies like Visa and Stripe are already integrating digital dollars into payment flows.
Business-to-business (B2B) payments are expected to lead this growth, as companies use stablecoins for faster settlements, better cash flow, and real-time access to funds.
By 2027, banks may also use regulated stablecoins to move funds and assets at any time of day.
Crypto use among large companies has already begun to grow. A 2025 survey by Coinbase found that 60% of Fortune 500 companies are actively working on blockchain projects, while more than 200 public firms now hold Bitcoin in their treasuries.
Therefore, Long noted that by 2026, around 50% of Fortune 500 companies may have direct crypto exposure. This could include holding digital assets, stablecoins, or tokenized financial products.
Crypto access is also expanding through ETFs, making it easier for institutions to enter the market. While more than 40 crypto ETFs launched in 2025, they still make up only a small part of the U.S. ETF market, showing there is plenty of room to grow.
At the same time, crypto mergers and acquisitions are rising, with custody services becoming a key focus. By 2026, many top global banks may form new crypto custody ties.
Looking ahead, Monica Long also sees blockchain and AI working together, helping automate financial tasks and make global finance faster and simpler.
Cryptocurrencies are highly sensitive to global risk sentiment. When geopolitical tensions rise, traders often reduce exposure to volatile assets like crypto and shift toward perceived safe havens.
Highly leveraged traders are most affected, as sharp price swings can quickly wipe out positions. This can also increase volatility for the broader market in the short term.
Market participants will closely monitor ETF flow data, macroeconomic signals, and on-chain metrics. A stabilization in these areas could indicate reduced downside risk.
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