Ripple President Monica Long said the crypto market is entering what many call its “production era.” She believes that by 2026, banks and large corporations will be fully utilizing crypto-based solutions, not just testing them.
According to her, crypto is becoming an essential part of modern finance and could reach 50% of Fortune 500 companies.
Here’s what Monica Long’s top crypto market prediction for 2026 highlights.
Stablecoins could become a basic payment tool
One of the strongest predictions for 2026 focuses on stablecoins. Long expects stablecoins to be deeply integrated into global payment systems, not as an add-on option, but as a core payment layer.
Large companies like Visa and Stripe are already integrating digital dollars into payment flows.
Business-to-business (B2B) payments are expected to drive this growth as businesses use stablecoins for faster settlements, better cash flow, and real-time access to funds.
2/ Crypto is no longer speculative: it becomes the operational layer of modern finance. By 2026, approximately 50% of Fortune 500 companies will have crypto exposure or have formalized DAT strategies, actively holding tokenized assets, on-chain treasuries, stablecoins, and programmable finance…
By 2027, banks will also be able to use regulated stablecoins to move funds and assets at any time of the day.
Crypto will reach 50% of Fortune 500 companies
The use of crypto among large companies has already started 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 companies now hold Bitcoin in their treasuries.
Therefore, Long noted that by 2026, approximately 50% of Fortune 500 companies could have direct exposure to crypto. This could include holding digital assets, stablecoins or tokenized financial products.
ETFs, custody and AI are shaping the future
Access to cryptocurrencies is also growing through ETFs, making it easier for institutions to enter the market. Although more than 40 crypto ETFs have launched in 2025, they still represent only a small portion of the US ETF market, showing that there is plenty of room for growth.
At the same time, cryptocurrency mergers and acquisitions are increasing, with custody services becoming a priority. By 2026, many major global banks could form new crypto custody ties.
Looking ahead, Monica Long also sees blockchain and AI working together, helping to automate financial tasks and make global finance faster and simpler.
FAQs
Why do geopolitical news affect cryptocurrency prices so quickly?
Cryptocurrencies are very sensitive to global risk sentiment. When geopolitical tensions rise, traders often reduce their exposure to volatile assets like cryptocurrencies and turn to perceived safe havens.
Who is most affected by large-scale crypto liquidations?
Highly leveraged traders are most affected, as sharp price swings can quickly wipe out their positions. It may also increase volatility in the market as a whole in the short term.
What signals will traders watch next to gauge a possible recovery?
Market participants will closely monitor ETF flow data, macroeconomic signals and on-chain metrics. Stabilization in these areas could indicate a reduction in downside risk.
