When we open a smartphone app to shop or send money, we often don't notice the technology working in the background. Such 'invisible technology' has long become the standard for services. However, blockchain technology itself is still at the center of promotion. Why hasn't blockchain established itself as an 'invisible infrastructure'? And what is the next-generation cryptocurrency vision that will dramatically change user experience? On April 10, 2026, Sota Watanabe, CEO of Startale Group, a Japanese startup supported by major global institutions such as Sony and SBI Holdings, provided intriguing answers to these questions in an interview with CCN. CEO Watanabe asserted that the traditional cryptocurrency market, centered on Bitcoin and Ethereum, is entering a new phase. The core of this is the 'tokenization of traditional markets.' This means we are entering an era where real-world assets, securities, and intellectual property can now be managed and traded on the blockchain. This is expected to lead to a large-scale innovation that goes beyond simply buying and selling cryptocurrencies, digitally connecting all sectors of society, including finance, real estate, art, and intellectual property rights. CEO Watanabe cited two main factors enabling this evolution. First is the acceleration of 'tokenization.' He explained that institutional adoption is accelerating, and the movement to tokenize real-world assets on a blockchain basis is gaining momentum not only in the cryptocurrency market but also in traditional finance. This will ultimately create an environment where digital assets gain liquidity and enable fair transactions. Second is the 'necessity of solving regulatory and privacy issues.' He pointed out that "regulation and data privacy are two major barriers to mass adoption," and unless these are resolved, it will be difficult for cryptocurrencies to evolve beyond existing technologies. He emphasized that these fundamental issues must be addressed first for Web3 technology to achieve widespread adoption. So, what changes are needed for blockchain technology to become mainstream? CEO Watanabe points out, "Currently, blockchain technology is too complex and difficult for the average person to use." First, there needs to be a shift away from technical complexity towards user-centric applications. Just as the internet has become an 'invisible infrastructure' that we use without thinking, blockchain must also eventually become a technology that fades into the background. He emphasized, "Ultimately, users should focus on applications rather than underlying technology, and blockchain must become an 'invisible infrastructure' that does not interfere with the user experience." His remarks pose a significant challenge to blockchain developers and platform operators. The message is that true innovation lies not in emphasizing technological superiority, but in creating an environment where users can conveniently utilize the technology without being consciously aware of it. 'Invisible Blockchain': What are the Barriers to Mass Adoption? Japan could serve as a prime example of this movement. CEO Watanabe explained that Japan is quietly but powerfully leading the new digital economy of Web3 by actively exploring digital currencies and tokenization at a national level. Among major global nations, Japan has demonstrated a legal and institutional acceptance of blockchain technology, which can serve as a reference for other countries. The Japanese government and financial authorities are attempting a balanced approach that establishes clear regulatory frameworks for cryptocurrencies and digital assets without hindering innovation. This environment provides strong implications for the global Web3 ecosystem and is influencing policy-making in other countries. The shifting trend in the cryptocurrency market is presenting new forms of financial models. CEO Watanabe predicted, "Stablecoins will play a crucial role in the rise of on-chain finance and will be key to bringing traditional financial markets onto the blockchain." Stablecoins refer to digital currencies with low volatility, whose value is pegged to fiat currencies or other stable assets. Their widespread adoption could expand blockchain technology into more practical horizons. Particularly in areas such as payments, remittances, and cross-border transactions, stablecoins have the potential to improve the inefficiencies of existing financial systems and significantly reduce transaction costs. Consequently, traditional financial institutions are also showing increased interest in blockchain-based services, which is sparking new discussions about the centralization and decentralization of payments and finance. CEO Watanabe asserted that the true cryptocurrency revolution will occur in tokenized markets. This means going beyond simple cryptocurrency trading to enable real-world assets, securities, and even intellectual property to be traded on the blockchain. For exam
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