# Real-world assets (RWAs) By [takehen](https://paragraph.com/@takehen) · 2024-10-31 --- Stablecoins, representing tokenized real-world assets (RWAs), have become foundational in crypto since their debut in 2014, primarily backed by USD. Current stablecoins like USDT, BUSD, and USDC are USD-pegged, while various nations explore CBDCs tied to their own currencies. A diversified stablecoin ecosystem could emerge if these CBDCs gain traction. RWAs are gaining momentum, enabling low-liquidity assets to be traded more efficiently on blockchain with transparent rules. This tokenization trend extends beyond stablecoins to items like real estate and fine art, potentially represented as NFTs to allow multiple investors. Financial institutions are increasingly engaging with RWAs. For instance, Singapore’s Central Bank explored RWAs through Project Guardian in 2022, while Siemens issued digital bonds on Polygon in early 2023. BlockTower, another major financial player, collaborated with MakerDAO and Centrifuge to add $220 million to DeFi markets. WEF forecasts that blockchain-based assets, especially home equity loans, could make up 10% of global GDP by 2027. Most RWA projects currently operate on Layer 1 blockchains like Ethereum, facing challenges such as regulatory compliance and privacy concerns. Public blockchains lack user restrictions and anonymity safeguards, so some RWA projects limit access or employ privacy controls. Custom Layer 1 RWA chains may evolve to address these regulatory and technical needs, such as Avalanche’s subnetwork by Intain for tokenized securities. Legal clarity remains limited for RWAs, with only a few countries, such as Switzerland and France, setting clear DeFi and traditional finance guidelines. Improved legal protections for RWAs, especially in asset liquidation, will enhance the safety of RWA-based lending. In summary, RWAs hold significant growth potential within DeFi as they tokenize real-world assets, though infrastructure, legal frameworks, and privacy features require further development for broader adoption. --- *Originally published on [takehen](https://paragraph.com/@takehen/real-world-assets-rwas)*