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Tokenized but Illiquid? Evidence from Real-World Asset Markets

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  • Rischan Mafrur

Abstract

Real-world asset tokenization is often presented as a mechanism for improving the liquidity of traditionally illiquid assets. However, on-chain representation and secondary-market liquidity are distinct outcomes. This paper examines whether tokenized real-world assets exhibit meaningful observed liquidity and identifies the token characteristics associated with higher market activity. Using token-level data from RWA.xyz and supplemental contract-level observations from Etherscan, the study constructs an Ethereum-based monthly panel of non-stablecoin real-world assets across three prominent categories: U.S. Treasury-backed tokens, gold-backed commodity tokens, and private-credit-related tokens. Liquidity is measured using turnover, active addresses, and an active-month indicator. The empirical design combines descriptive statistics, non-parametric group tests, and exploratory panel regressions suited to short and sparse token histories. The results show substantial heterogeneity across asset categories. Gold-backed tokens exhibit broader holder bases and more persistent on-chain activity than many Treasury and private-credit-related products, while outstanding asset value alone does not reliably predict observed liquidity. The paper contributes to the literature by developing a clearer empirical measurement framework for real-world-asset liquidity and showing that tokenization and liquidity should be analyzed as distinct outcomes.

Suggested Citation

  • Rischan Mafrur, 2026. "Tokenized but Illiquid? Evidence from Real-World Asset Markets," Papers 2606.01131, arXiv.org, revised Jul 2026.
    • Handle: RePEc:arx:papers:2606.01131
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Kreppmeier, Julia & Laschinger, Ralf & Steininger, Bertram I. & Dorfleitner, Gregor, 2023. "Real estate security token offerings and the secondary market: Driven by crypto hype or fundamentals?," Journal of Banking & Finance, Elsevier, vol. 154(C).
    2. Laurens Swinkels, 2025. "Empirical Evidence on the Ownership and Liquidity of Real Estate Tokens," Springer Books, in: Gang Kou & Yongqiang Li & Zongyi Zhang & J. Leon Zhao & Zhi Zhuo (ed.), Blockchain, Crypto Assets, and Financial Innovation, pages 434-467, Springer.
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