tl;dr
Telegram partners with Wallet in Telegram, Backed, and Kraken to launch 35 tokenized U.S. equities, aiming to democratize finance while prioritizing compliance and user experience.
**Telegram Expands Crypto Ecosystem with Tokenized Equities via Strategic Partnership**
Telegram is set to revolutionize its crypto offerings with the introduction of tokenized equities, marking a significant step in the integration of traditional finance and blockchain technology. The social media platform has partnered with Wallet in Telegram, the crypto wallet app, and xStocks operator Backed, in collaboration with U.S. crypto exchange Kraken, to launch 60 tokenized versions of U.S. equities. This initiative aims to democratize access to financial markets while prioritizing compliance and user experience.
### A New Era for Tokenized Stocks on Telegram
The partnership will debut with 35 tokenized stocks, including prominent names like Circle (CRCLX), Coinbase (COINX), Robinhood (HOODX), and TON Strategy (TONx), available in the “Stocks and ETFs” section of Wallet in Telegram. The initial rollout, scheduled for October, will focus on a limited set of markets, with plans to expand globally over time. By the end of 2025, the platform aims to offer over 60 tokenized U.S. stocks and ETFs, each fully collateralized 1:1 with their underlying assets.
Notably, Bitcoin ETFs will not be included in this offering, though Bitcoin remains available as a crypto asset via the custodial Crypto Wallet. The platform’s spokesperson emphasized that the focus is on “tokenized U.S. stocks and ETFs,” underscoring a commitment to regulatory compliance and transparency.
### Emerging Markets First, With a Global Vision
The xStocks integration will initially prioritize emerging markets, aligning with Backed’s strategy to support developing economies. This approach contrasts with some previous xStocks implementations, which restricted access in the U.S. and sanctioned jurisdictions while targeting over 170 countries. Wallet in Telegram’s spokesperson highlighted that xStocks are “fully collateralized 1:1” and issued under a compliant prospectus, setting them apart from other tokenized equity offerings.
The rollout will begin within the custodial Wallet in Telegram, with plans to expand to the self-custodial TON Wallet in the fourth quarter of 2024. This phased approach allows the team to refine user experience and ensure regulatory adherence before broader adoption.
### Commission-Free Trading and Regulatory Safeguards
To encourage adoption, trading tokenized stocks and ETFs on Wallet in Telegram will be commission-free until the end of 2025. However, standard fees will apply for withdrawals of these assets. The platform’s emphasis on compliance includes detailed investor disclosures, ensuring transparency for users.
### Pavel Durov’s Bitcoin Backing Adds Credibility
The launch comes amid growing interest in crypto assets, bolstered by Telegram founder and CEO Pavel Durov’s personal investment in Bitcoin. Durov, who revealed in a recent interview that he has been a Bitcoin believer since 2013, emphasized the asset’s role as a “significant source of income.” His endorsement underscores Telegram’s commitment to crypto innovation, even as it ventures into traditional finance through tokenized equities.
### The Road Ahead
As tokenized assets gain traction, Telegram’s move positions it as a bridge between decentralized finance (DeFi) and traditional markets. By combining the reach of its platform with the expertise of Backed and Kraken, Wallet in Telegram aims to make equities more accessible while navigating the complexities of global regulations.
This partnership not only expands the crypto ecosystem but also signals a broader shift toward hybrid financial systems, where digital assets and traditional instruments coexist. For users, it offers a glimpse into the future of investing—one where accessibility, compliance, and innovation converge.