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Dubai’s real estate sector demonstrated remarkable momentum last month, with property transactions reaching a record AED 66.8 billion , reflecting a substantial 44% increase compared to the previous year. This surge highlights a growing population and robust demand across various market segments, driven by both primary and secondary sales.

The primary ready property segment emerged as a key growth area, experiencing a fourfold increase in sales value to AED 17.9 billion in May 2025. This sharp rise signals strong confidence among buyers seeking completed units, particularly in sought-after developments across Dubai’s key residential hubs. The secondary ready market also recorded significant gains, with sales amounting to AED 24 billion, up 21% year-on-year, underscoring ongoing interest in resale properties.

Combined, the value of primary ready and off-plan transactions soared by 65% to AED 37 billion, while secondary sales posted a 23% rise, reaching AED 29 billion. These figures set new benchmarks for Dubai’s real estate market, reinforcing its status as a vibrant and attractive destination for investors and end-users alike.

Market analysts point to several factors fueling this upward trajectory. Dubai’s population continues to expand rapidly, buoyed by relaxed visa policies and a growing expatriate community. This demographic shift is driving demand for residential properties across the emirate, particularly in areas offering integrated lifestyle amenities and proximity to business districts.

Infrastructure developments and government initiatives aimed at enhancing the city’s appeal remain key contributors to market confidence. Projects such as the Dubai Metro expansion, new business zones, and cultural hubs are attracting both domestic and international buyers. The real estate sector’s performance also benefits from Dubai’s position as a global trade and tourism hub, which sustains demand in the rental and resale markets.

Within the primary ready segment, the quadrupling of sales reflects a broader trend where buyers prefer completed properties over off-plan purchases, reducing exposure to construction delays and market fluctuations. This preference is particularly pronounced among end-users seeking immediate occupancy. Developers have responded by accelerating delivery schedules and introducing competitive pricing strategies to capture this demand.

Off-plan sales maintain a strong presence, contributing significantly to the overall primary market value. The willingness of buyers to commit to projects still under construction suggests continued optimism about Dubai’s long-term growth prospects. Developers are increasingly targeting affluent buyers with luxury offerings and integrated communities that blend residential, retail, and recreational spaces.

The secondary market’s 23% growth highlights the liquidity and resilience of Dubai’s property resale sector. Investors and homeowners alike are capitalising on rising property values, with many opting to upgrade or diversify their portfolios. This active resale market provides a vital avenue for market participants seeking flexible entry and exit points.

Data also reveals that demand is diversifying geographically. While prime locations such as Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and Palm Jumeirah remain highly sought after, emerging areas like Dubai South and Mohammed bin Rashid City are gaining traction. These developments offer competitive pricing and extensive amenities, appealing to both investors and residents aiming for value and quality of life.

Real estate experts caution, however, that sustainability remains a crucial consideration amid rapid growth. Affordability challenges and potential oversupply in certain segments could temper future gains if not managed carefully. Nonetheless, current market dynamics suggest a healthy balance between supply and demand, supported by Dubai’s strategic economic vision.

Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority has entered into a strategic partnership with SuiHub MENA, the regional arm of the Sui blockchain ecosystem, to bolster the emirate’s position as a global hub for virtual assets. The collaboration aims to support emerging startups, nurture local talent, and provide regulatory guidance within the blockchain sector.

The agreement, formalised earlier this week, outlines a multifaceted approach to ecosystem development. Key initiatives include jointly hosted workshops to assist startups in navigating Dubai’s licensing regime, educational programs to cultivate local expertise in blockchain technology, and the establishment of advisory sessions to offer compliance support. These efforts are designed to streamline the path to market for new ventures and enhance the overall maturity of the virtual asset landscape in the region.

SuiHub MENA’s innovation centre in Dubai will serve as the focal point for these activities, with VARA providing strategic support through roundtables and engagements with government stakeholders. The partnership also encompasses collaborative research opportunities aimed at informing future virtual asset policies and contributing to the sustainable growth of the sector.

This alliance follows a similar memorandum of understanding signed between VARA and the Solana Foundation, reflecting Dubai’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for blockchain innovation. By aligning regulatory clarity with technological advancement, these partnerships underscore the emirate’s proactive stance in embracing the potential of virtual assets while ensuring robust governance frameworks are in place.

Thailand’s tourism industry continues to grapple with significant challenges despite the temporary surge in visitor interest linked to the popularity of HBO’s hit series set on Koh Samui. The so-called “White Lotus effect” sparked a modest increase in Western tourists drawn by the picturesque island backdrop of the show. However, this spike has failed to reverse the broader downward trend that has gripped the sector, which remains weighed down by a complex mix of economic, geopolitical, and structural factors.

Tourism, which historically accounted for approximately 20% of Thailand’s GDP, has not rebounded to pre-pandemic levels. The government’s ambitious targets for visitor arrivals have consistently fallen short, with numbers lagging due to a combination of diminished demand from key markets, lingering travel restrictions in some regions, and competition from neighbouring countries aggressively courting tourists with attractive packages and incentives.

Koh Samui, often portrayed as a tropical paradise in the series, experienced an influx of curious travellers eager to visit the filming locations. Hotels and local businesses reported short-term gains, but these have proven insufficient to restore the overall health of the industry. Analysts note that the White Lotus effect highlights the growing influence of media and entertainment in shaping travel preferences but also underscores the limitations of relying on such ephemeral boosts without broader strategic support.

The pandemic fundamentally altered global travel behaviours, accelerating trends towards more cautious spending and preference for less crowded destinations. Additionally, the economic slowdown and inflationary pressures in Western countries have tightened discretionary budgets for leisure travel, further curbing outbound flows. Thailand, which relies heavily on long-haul visitors from Europe, North America, and Australia, has thus found itself at a disadvantage amid shifting global economic dynamics.

Geopolitical tensions in Southeast Asia and stricter visa and entry policies in response to health concerns have deterred potential visitors. While Thailand has progressively eased COVID-19 restrictions, some travellers remain wary of changing regulations and the unpredictability of travel protocols. This uncertainty contrasts with competitors like Vietnam and Malaysia, which have implemented more streamlined border policies to attract tourists.

The country’s tourism infrastructure also faces scrutiny. Despite being a longstanding favourite destination, several regions struggle with overdevelopment, environmental degradation, and inconsistent service standards. These issues have sparked calls for more sustainable tourism practices to ensure long-term viability. Efforts to diversify tourism offerings beyond beach resorts, such as promoting eco-tourism, cultural tourism, and wellness retreats, are gaining traction but require substantial investment and coherent policy frameworks to achieve scale.

The Thai government has responded with a series of incentives aimed at reviving the sector. These include marketing campaigns targeting emerging markets such as China, India, and the Middle East, where outbound travel is expected to grow. Subsidies and financial support for local businesses, infrastructure upgrades, and training programmes for hospitality workers form part of the recovery blueprint. Nonetheless, experts caution that the benefits of these measures will manifest gradually and hinge on geopolitical stability and global economic recovery.

Tourism operators highlight that the industry’s challenges extend beyond attracting visitors to addressing the quality of the visitor experience and the sustainability of growth. For example, concerns about overtourism in some hotspots have led to overcrowding and resource depletion, while lesser-known regions struggle to attract sufficient attention and investment. This imbalance has prompted calls for a more balanced approach that spreads economic benefits more evenly across the country.

Foreign direct investment in the tourism sector remains muted compared with previous years, reflecting broader investor caution about global economic uncertainties. The depreciation of the Thai baht has had mixed effects; while it makes the destination more affordable for foreign tourists, it also raises costs for imported goods and services crucial to the hospitality industry. Inflationary pressures on food, energy, and labour add to the operational challenges faced by businesses seeking to maintain profitability while keeping prices competitive.

Labour shortages persist as well, with many workers leaving the tourism sector during the pandemic to pursue alternative employment. This has led to difficulties in maintaining service quality and meeting seasonal demand peaks. The government has encouraged re-skilling and vocational training programmes, but the gap remains significant, especially in rural and less-developed areas.

Industry analysts point to the need for a comprehensive long-term strategy that integrates tourism with broader economic and social development goals. This would include embracing digital transformation to enhance marketing, customer engagement, and operational efficiency, as well as fostering partnerships between the public and private sectors to ensure resilience against future shocks.

Thailand’s brand as a travel destination continues to enjoy global recognition for its natural beauty, rich culture, and culinary appeal. However, sustaining this reputation requires ongoing adaptation to evolving traveller expectations, global trends, and environmental imperatives. While the White Lotus series has brought some renewed attention to specific locales, the industry’s recovery depends on deeper structural reforms and coordinated efforts at multiple levels.

The United Arab Emirates and Kuwait have cemented a series of bilateral agreements designed to enhance collaboration across vital sectors such as health, energy, education, and defence. These agreements were formalised during an official visit by UAE Vice President Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan at Bayan Palace, where Kuwaiti Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah also presided over the signing ceremony.

This diplomatic engagement reflects a shared commitment to deepen economic and political cooperation amid a shifting geopolitical landscape in the Gulf region. Both nations seek to leverage their strategic partnership to accelerate development goals and bolster regional stability.

The agreements encompass a broad spectrum of cooperation frameworks. In healthcare, the MoUs aim to facilitate joint initiatives in medical research, health services, and pandemic preparedness. This builds upon existing efforts to enhance public health infrastructure and improve access to advanced medical technologies within both countries. The collaboration is expected to include exchanges of expertise and the establishment of joint health projects, reinforcing resilience against future health crises.

Energy cooperation constitutes a central pillar of the accord, reflecting the growing importance of sustainable development and energy diversification in Gulf policies. Both nations have expressed intent to collaborate on clean energy projects, including renewable energy deployment and energy efficiency programmes. This aligns with wider regional ambitions to reduce carbon footprints and accelerate the energy transition, tapping into solar, wind, and hydrogen potential. The partnership aims to foster knowledge-sharing, joint investments, and innovation in sustainable energy technologies, signalling a clear move away from traditional hydrocarbon dependency.

Education and innovation sectors also feature prominently in the agreements. Kuwait and the UAE plan to develop cooperative education programmes, facilitate student and academic exchanges, and promote joint research ventures. These initiatives target strengthening human capital and nurturing a knowledge-based economy, crucial for long-term competitiveness. Special focus is placed on artificial intelligence and digital transformation, areas recognised for their transformative potential across industries.

Defence collaboration marks another significant dimension of the bilateral ties, with both countries pledging closer coordination in security and military affairs. This includes enhanced training cooperation, intelligence sharing, and joint exercises aimed at improving operational readiness and countering emerging threats in a volatile regional security environment.

Investment and infrastructure development feature heavily within the broader strategic framework. The agreements envisage boosting trade flows, encouraging cross-border investments, and facilitating infrastructure projects. These measures are expected to unlock economic opportunities, create jobs, and support broader Gulf Cooperation Council integration efforts.

Social development has not been overlooked, with the accords setting the stage for cooperative efforts in social welfare, cultural exchange, and community development. This demonstrates a recognition that sustainable progress extends beyond economic growth to encompass social cohesion and quality of life improvements.

This series of MoUs signals a concerted effort by the UAE and Kuwait to consolidate their partnership amid evolving regional and global dynamics. Both nations are navigating complex challenges, including economic diversification pressures, climate change imperatives, and shifting geopolitical alliances. The agreements reflect a proactive strategy to leverage bilateral cooperation as a stabilising and growth-enhancing force.

The visit by Sheikh Mansour underscores the UAE’s broader diplomatic outreach in the Gulf, aimed at strengthening ties with neighbouring states while advancing shared priorities. Kuwait, meanwhile, views this enhanced partnership as vital for reinforcing its role in regional affairs and securing avenues for economic resilience.

Experts note that such collaborations between Gulf states are increasingly critical as they face mounting global competition and internal transformation demands. By pooling resources, expertise, and political will, the UAE and Kuwait position themselves to address mutual challenges more effectively and harness new opportunities.

This development follows a pattern of intensified Gulf collaboration that has gained momentum following shifts in regional geopolitics. Enhanced bilateral relations are viewed as key to ensuring collective security and economic prosperity, particularly amid external uncertainties and emerging global power dynamics.

The agreements also reflect a clear alignment with the strategic visions of both countries, which prioritise innovation, sustainability, and regional integration. As the Gulf states pursue diversification and modernisation agendas, such partnerships become essential tools for advancing these objectives.

While the full scope and impact of the signed agreements will unfold over time, the foundations laid in this visit mark a significant milestone. The emphasis on critical sectors such as healthcare, clean energy, education, and defence highlights the comprehensive nature of the partnership.

Saudi Arabia is advocating for accelerated increases in oil production within the OPEC+ coalition, aiming to reclaim market share lost during past output cuts. The kingdom is reportedly pressing the group to raise supplies by more than 400,000 barrels per day for August and possibly September, signalling a clear shift in strategy amid evolving global energy demands.

The decision underscores Saudi Arabia’s intent to capitalise on high seasonal demand in the northern hemisphere summer months. By scaling back production curbs more aggressively, Riyadh seeks to boost revenue and solidify its influence over global oil markets as supply dynamics shift. This approach reflects broader geopolitical and economic calculations, especially as global economies adjust to fluctuating energy needs and the ongoing transition to cleaner energy sources.

OPEC+ has been managing oil supply carefully since 2020, following the severe demand shock caused by the pandemic and ensuing market volatility. Initial drastic cuts helped stabilise prices, but the alliance has gradually increased output to balance rising demand. Saudi Arabia, as the largest producer within OPEC+, holds substantial sway in determining the group’s production policies and has been central to managing these supply adjustments.

This move to hasten production hikes also coincides with concerns over emerging market demand and the possible impact of economic slowdowns in key economies such as China and Europe. Saudi officials appear confident that increased output will prevent rivals, including the US shale sector and other non-OPEC producers, from expanding their share amid tightening market conditions.

Industry experts highlight that Saudi Arabia’s push for faster supply growth may be aimed at pre-empting market share erosion by ensuring that OPEC+ remains the dominant supplier globally. Since mid-2022, the kingdom has carefully recalibrated its production to respond to volatile price trends and geopolitical uncertainties, including tensions in the Middle East and disruptions caused by sanctions on Russia.

The timing of the proposed output rise is critical. Summer months traditionally bring peak consumption due to higher energy needs for cooling in developed markets, which can drive up prices. Saudi Arabia’s intention to increase supply during this window suggests an effort to maximise returns while stabilising prices to avoid sharp fluctuations that could undermine consumer confidence and economic recovery.

Global oil markets remain sensitive to a variety of factors including inflationary pressures, currency fluctuations, and shifting consumer behaviour. While demand for fossil fuels is under pressure from environmental policies and the accelerating transition to renewables, oil remains a crucial commodity in the global energy mix. Saudi Arabia’s strategy to secure market share through supply management is thus seen as a pragmatic response to balancing short-term profitability with long-term market relevance.

OPEC+ member countries have historically struggled to reach consensus on output levels, with diverse national interests shaping negotiations. Saudi Arabia’s dominant position, reinforced by its vast production capacity and financial reserves, often allows it to influence group decisions. However, some members have expressed concerns about aggressive supply increases potentially undermining prices and fiscal stability.

The broader geopolitical landscape also plays a role in shaping OPEC+ policies. Tensions involving key players such as Russia, which holds a significant share in the alliance, and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East add layers of complexity to supply decisions. Riyadh’s leadership in pushing for larger hikes indicates confidence in managing these risks while maintaining its strategic goals.

Market analysts note that US shale producers have responded to higher prices by increasing output, albeit with some operational constraints. Saudi Arabia’s efforts to accelerate OPEC+ production are seen as a counterbalance to this trend, aiming to keep global supply within manageable limits and avoid price spikes that could trigger demand destruction or accelerate the shift to alternatives.

Saudi Aramco, the kingdom’s state-owned oil giant, plays a pivotal role in implementing the supply strategy. Its vast infrastructure, including refineries and export terminals, supports the planned output increases. Aramco’s ability to ramp up production rapidly without incurring excessive costs provides Saudi Arabia with a competitive edge in the global energy market.

Environmental considerations also influence production decisions. While the global push for net-zero emissions is intensifying, OPEC+ nations, led by Saudi Arabia, continue to argue for the essential role of oil in energy security and economic development. The kingdom is simultaneously investing in cleaner technologies and diversifying its economy to reduce dependence on hydrocarbons in the long term.

The interaction between Saudi Arabia’s production policy and global economic indicators remains closely monitored by investors and policymakers alike. Oil prices affect inflation rates, trade balances, and geopolitical stability, making OPEC+ decisions crucial beyond the energy sector. The kingdom’s assertive stance on output could signal a more proactive approach to managing these broader economic impacts.

Analysts emphasize that while Saudi Arabia seeks to regain market share, the volatility of global markets and uncertainties surrounding demand growth require cautious optimism. Supply increases must be balanced against potential oversupply risks, which could trigger price declines detrimental to all producers within OPEC+.

BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF has surged into the ranks of the world’s 25 largest exchange-traded funds , reaching $72.4 billion in assets under management just 1.4 years after its launch. This rapid ascent positions IBIT as the youngest ETF among the top 25 by a significant margin, with the next youngest fund being over 12 years old.

Launched on January 5, 2024, IBIT has demonstrated unprecedented growth in the ETF landscape. Its swift accumulation of assets reflects a strong institutional appetite for regulated exposure to Bitcoin, coupled with investor confidence in BlackRock’s management capabilities.

The fund’s impressive performance is further highlighted by its consistent inflows. IBIT recorded net inflows on 29 of the past 30 trading days, including a 32-day streak without any outflows. Notably, on April 28, the ETF experienced its highest single-day inflow of the year at $970.93 million, even as Bitcoin’s price saw only a modest increase of 1.36%, closing at $95,000. This trend underscores the strong institutional demand for Bitcoin exposure through regulated investment vehicles.

IBIT’s rapid growth has also positioned it as the second-largest holder of Bitcoin globally, with holdings amounting to approximately 660,842 BTC. This places it just behind the pseudonymous creator of Bitcoin, Satoshi Nakamoto, in terms of holdings. The ETF’s success is attributed to its low fees and the trust investors place in BlackRock’s institutional framework.

The fund’s benchmark, the CME CF Bitcoin Reference Rate – New York Variant, provides a reliable and regulated pricing mechanism, further enhancing investor confidence. IBIT trades on the NASDAQ exchange, offering investors a familiar and accessible platform for Bitcoin exposure.

BlackRock’s foray into the cryptocurrency space with IBIT marks a significant shift in the financial industry’s approach to digital assets. The ETF’s success may pave the way for broader acceptance and integration of cryptocurrencies into mainstream investment portfolios.

South Korea’s newly inaugurated President has signalled an intent to extend negotiations with the United States over critical trade agreements, aiming to secure more favourable terms that could shape the trajectory of the country’s export-driven economy. The administration recognises the complexity of current talks and the high stakes for sectors that form the backbone of South Korea’s global economic influence, including semiconductors, automotive manufacturing, and shipbuilding.

The president, Lee Jae-myung, who took office following a highly competitive election, has prioritised trade diplomacy with Washington as a cornerstone of his economic agenda. South Korea’s reliance on exports to the US market makes the outcome of these talks pivotal for sustaining growth and competitiveness. The decision to request additional time highlights the government’s cautious approach amid mounting international uncertainties and intensifying global supply chain disruptions.

Lee’s administration faces pressure to address contentious issues such as tariff reductions, intellectual property protections, and technology transfers that have been key sticking points in negotiations. American officials have pushed for greater access to South Korea’s semiconductor sector, a world leader in chip production, while Seoul is equally keen to safeguard its industrial strengths against onerous restrictions. Balancing these priorities requires delicate diplomacy, with the stakes heightened by rising geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific region.

Economic analysts observe that the extended timeframe could provide South Korea with a strategic advantage, allowing deeper consultation with domestic industries and stakeholders. The government is expected to leverage this period to refine proposals that accommodate emerging global trends, including shifts in supply chain localisation, heightened environmental standards, and evolving digital trade frameworks.

South Korea’s chipmakers, which dominate global markets with advanced memory and logic chips, are particularly attentive to outcomes of the talks. Recent moves by the US to incentivise domestic semiconductor manufacturing through legislative packages have raised concerns about potential trade barriers and competitive disadvantages for South Korean firms. The extended negotiation window offers a chance to clarify terms and possibly negotiate exemptions or compensatory measures to protect the industry’s international standing.

Similarly, the automotive sector, a pillar of South Korea’s industrial base, stands to gain or lose significantly depending on trade terms. The rise of electric vehicles and changing regulatory regimes worldwide necessitate adaptive trade policies that accommodate new technologies and market realities. The extended talks will enable Seoul to press for provisions that support its carmakers’ access to the US market, while also addressing issues related to tariffs and environmental regulations.

Shipbuilding, another vital sector for South Korea’s economy, faces challenges from global competition and evolving demand patterns, especially as the maritime industry shifts towards greener technologies. Negotiations with the US could influence the sector’s export potential, especially if environmental standards or subsidy regulations become part of trade discussions. Lee’s government is likely to emphasise the need for fair competition frameworks that protect the industry while fostering innovation.

The broader geopolitical context also plays a significant role in shaping these negotiations. South Korea’s balancing act between its strategic alliance with the US and its economic ties with China demands a nuanced trade policy. With tensions escalating between the US and China, Seoul must navigate these complexities carefully, ensuring that its trade agreements do not alienate either partner while maximising economic benefits.

South Korea’s trade ministry has indicated a willingness to engage constructively with American counterparts, stressing the mutual benefits of a comprehensive deal. The government has also engaged business leaders and experts to gather insights and build consensus on negotiation priorities. This inclusive approach aims to ensure that trade agreements align with long-term national interests rather than short-term gains.

Lee’s outreach to Washington comes at a time when global trade dynamics are undergoing rapid transformation. Protectionist sentiments and the realignment of supply chains following the pandemic have created both risks and opportunities for export-driven economies. South Korea’s strategic response through extended negotiations seeks to position the country favourably in this new environment.

Industry observers note that while additional time may raise concerns about potential delays or uncertainties, it also reflects a pragmatic recognition of the complexities involved in modern trade agreements. The extended timeline allows for more thorough impact assessments, stakeholder engagement, and the incorporation of emerging trade issues such as digital commerce, data security, and sustainability commitments.

Lee’s government is also expected to pursue parallel initiatives to strengthen domestic competitiveness alongside trade talks. Investments in innovation, infrastructure, and workforce skills development are seen as complementary measures to enhance South Korea’s economic resilience in a volatile global market.

The trade discussions have attracted close attention from international partners and economic forums, given South Korea’s integral role in global supply chains. The outcome will not only influence bilateral relations with the US but also set precedents for future trade policies across the Asia-Pacific region.

Stablecoins now account for over 80% of total spot trading volume in the cryptocurrency market in 2025, solidifying their position as the primary medium of exchange across major digital asset platforms.

This shift marks a significant evolution in the structure of crypto markets, where fiat-backed digital tokens have overtaken traditional currency pairs in trading activity. Tether’s USDT leads this transformation, commanding approximately 80% of stablecoin payment volume, underscoring its role as the most liquid and widely used asset in the ecosystem.

The stablecoin market has experienced substantial growth, with its total capitalization surpassing $250 billion. This expansion is attributed to increasing institutional adoption and the demand for stable, dollar-pegged assets in volatile markets. USDT’s market cap alone has exceeded $90 billion, reflecting its central role in facilitating crypto transactions.

Regulatory developments have played a crucial role in this growth. In the United States, the proposed Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins Act aims to provide a comprehensive regulatory framework for stablecoins, encouraging broader issuance by traditional financial institutions. Similarly, the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets regulation, effective from December 2024, offers legal clarity for crypto assets, including stablecoins, fostering their integration into the financial system.

The dominance of stablecoins is also evident in trading behaviors. USDT pairs, such as BTC/USDT and ETH/USDT, have become the preferred trading pairs on major exchanges, offering high liquidity and minimal slippage. This preference is particularly pronounced during periods of market volatility, where traders seek the stability of dollar-pegged assets.

The integration of stablecoins into traditional financial systems is further exemplified by their use in cross-border payments and settlements. Companies like WorldPay have reported a 50% reduction in settlement times through the adoption of stablecoin-based systems. Additionally, the use of stablecoins in cross-border transactions is gaining traction in regions like Asia and Europe, where regulatory clarity and technological infrastructure support their adoption.

The strategic importance of stablecoins is underscored by their growing role in global finance. With the majority of stablecoins pegged to the U.S. dollar, they reinforce the dollar’s dominance in international trade and finance. This trend is expected to continue as regulatory frameworks mature and institutional adoption increases.