Gm! In this episode we’re joined by Nick Ducoff, Head of Institutional Growth at the Solana Foundation, to explore Solana’s institutional adoption and the rise of internet capital markets. We discuss the growth of tokenized real-world assets, stablecoins, and onchain equities, alongside regulatory dynamics, institutional tooling gaps, and the structural advantages of public blockchains. We also discuss emerging opportunities in real estate, municipal bonds, and expanding global investor access.

Enjoy!

Follow Lightspeed: ⁠https://twitter.com/Lightspeedpodhq⁠

Follow Solana: https://x.com/Solana

Follow Nick: https://x.com/nickducoff?lang=en

Follow Danny: https://x.com/defi_kay_

Join the Lightspeed Telegram: ⁠https://t.me/+QHlbNTNS4gc1ZTVh

Join us at DAS (Digital Asset Summit) in New York City this March! Use the link below to learn more, and use code LIGHTSPEED200 to get $200 off your ticket! See you there!

Learn more + get your ticket here: https://blockworks.co/event/digital-asset-summit-nyc-2026

Get top market insights and the latest in crypto news. Subscribe to Blockworks Daily Newsletter: https://blockworks.co/newsletter/

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction

(3:08) Nick's Path to Solana

(8:25) Institutional Adoption in Action

(10:49) Why Institutions Are Choosing Solana

(20:37) Institutional Archetypes & Regulatory Constraints

(23:49) The RWA Landscape: Yield, Stablecoins & Equities

(31:51) Canonical Tokens vs Market Fragmentation

(34:45) What's Next: Real Estate & Municipal Bonds

(40:57) Why This Cycle is Different

(43:24) Closing Comments

Disclaimers: Lightspeed was kickstarted by a grant from the Solana Foundation.

Nothing said on Lightspeed is a recommendation to buy or sell securities or tokens. This podcast is for informational purposes only, and any views expressed by anyone on the show are solely our opinions, not financial advice. Danny, and our guests may hold positions in the companies, funds, or projects discussed.