Blockchain.com, a global crypto platform, has partnered with Ondo Finance to launch tokenized U.S. stocks and ETFs in Nigeria. The move enables users to buy digital tokens that mirror over 100 listed American companies through the Blockchain.com DeFi Wallet. This marks a major step in expanding access to global financial markets for Nigerian investors, giving them exposure to assets traditionally out of reach through local exchanges.
How the Tokenization Works
Ondo Finance, a U.S.-based firm specializing in real-world asset tokenization, powers the new offering by issuing digital representations of U.S. equities like Apple, Tesla, Nvidia, Amazon, and the S&P 500. Each token mirrors the total return of its underlying asset, including dividends, and is backed by real securities held with licensed U.S. custodians. Through Blockchain.com’s DeFi Wallet, Nigerians can now trade these tokenized assets onchain with continuous liquidity and lower barriers to entry.
Incentivizing Adoption with Rewards
To promote adoption, Blockchain.com has rolled out a limited-time rewards program for Nigerian users. Investors can earn five ONDO tokens for each of their first five tokenized asset purchases worth at least $10, for a total of 25 ONDO. Additionally, users who buy and hold the least-traded tokens during the campaign will enter a draw for a share of a 10,000 ONDO prize pool, encouraging both engagement and long-term investment behavior.
Navigating Regulatory Uncertainty
The introduction of tokenized equities comes at a time when Nigeria’s regulatory framework for digital assets remains unclear. The Securities and Exchange Commission has yet to establish formal rules for tokenization, leaving such products in a gray area. However, Blockchain.com has emphasized its commitment to compliance, revealing that it has applied for an SEC license to operate locally and aims to align with existing and future regulations governing digital assets in Nigeria.
Strengthening Presence in Africa
Blockchain.com’s expansion into Nigeria forms part of its broader strategy to establish a strong African footprint. The company, which operates in over 100 countries, views Nigeria as a key hub thanks to its young, tech-driven population and high crypto adoption rate. It has opened an office in the country, begun hiring across West Africa, and plans to expand its offerings beyond trading to include remittances, payments, and business transactions powered by blockchain technology.
The Blockchain.com–Ondo Finance collaboration signals a pivotal shift in how African investors can access global markets. For Nigerians, it bridges traditional finance and decentralized systems, enabling exposure to blue-chip equities and ETFs without the friction of conventional intermediaries. As regulations evolve, this model could position Nigeria as a leader in tokenized finance across Africa, advancing the goal of a more open, inclusive, and borderless financial ecosystem.