Interest in crypto IPOs is experiencing a declining trend in the market

The landscape of initial public offerings (IPOs) in the cryptocurrency sector is experiencing a significant shift in sentiment. After a record-breaking 2025 with 11 companies raising $14.6 billion, the reality of 2026 shows a much more tempered outlook and a clear decline in enthusiasm among investors and market participants.

The declining sentiment reflects the advance of traditional finance

According to data from the Crypto Finance Conference held in St. Moritz, Switzerland, and reported by PANews, the sector’s transformation is undeniable. Of the 242 participants surveyed, 107 stated that traditional financial institutions are gaining ground and influence in the crypto industry. This figure represents an increase of over 50% compared to the previous year (2024), indicating a fundamental shift in market structure and a growing concentration of financial power.

The phenomenon is not trivial: as traditional players expand their presence, enthusiasm for new decentralized models appears to wane. Participants warn of emerging risks of consolidation, with insufficient liquidity identified as the most immediate and concerning threat to market stability.

Regulatory opportunities contrast with declining optimism

However, not all is pessimism. The regulatory landscape is experiencing favorable changes that could partially reverse this downward trend. The United States has made dramatic progress in regulatory friendliness rankings, climbing from the last position to second place, reflecting greater openness toward crypto innovation. Simultaneously, the United Arab Emirates solidifies its position as a global regulatory leader.

These improvements in the regulatory environment represent an important counterbalance to the prevailing negative sentiment. Despite the decline in optimism regarding IPOs, regulatory clarity in key jurisdictions could serve as a catalyst to stabilize and potentially revitalize the market in the coming months.