Bank of New York Mellon: FOMO sentiment is driving asset management companies to accelerate their layout of tokenized ETFs

According to The Block, Ben Slavin, the global ETF head at Bank of New York Mellon (BNY), stated that asset managers are accelerating their tokenized ETF plans, driven mainly by investor demand and the FOMO sentiment of fearing to miss early opportunities in blockchain finance. Slavin revealed that BNY has multiple tokenized ETF projects underway, and although the regulatory environment and infrastructure are not yet fully ready, many clients wish to launch products as soon as possible. He believes that blockchain networks are expected to become a new distribution channel for traditional investment products, enabling around-the-clock holding and transfer of fund shares, shortening settlement times, and expanding coverage for global investors.

Slavin also pointed out that currently, hundreds of well-known ETFs are trading in tokenized form in unregulated markets, and most of these have not been directly authorized by the fund sponsors, which poses reputational risks. This topic has become a focal point for discussions among BNY's asset management clients. Although the industry is still exploring core issues such as the integration of tokenized funds with existing infrastructure, secondary trading mechanisms, and regulatory frameworks, Slavin stated that asset managers are increasingly inclined to believe that "getting in early" in this field is more important than "waiting for clarity."