Prospects for 2026: How the development of AI and blockchain will change the financial sector

Expert Tom Lee discussed the transformation the world of finance is expected to undergo in the coming years. According to his analysis, presented in a recent CNBC interview, the shift of the Federal Reserve System’s monetary policy towards a soft strategy will have far-reaching consequences for the economy as a whole.

Monetary Policy as a Growth Driver

Tom Lee believes that easing the tight monetary policy in 2026 will initiate positive changes in business activity. As the Federal Reserve shifts to a more flexible approach, the ISM index, which tracks purchasing managers’ activity, should cross the 50 mark, signaling a recovery in industrial confidence.

This shift will directly impact traditional economic sectors. Industrial enterprises, energy companies, and raw material producers will benefit from renewed business confidence. For these industries, easing lending conditions will mean lower borrowing costs and more opportunities for expansion.

Digitalization as the New Reality of the Financial Sector

Simultaneously, the transformation will also affect financial institutions. The integration of AI and blockchain into banking operations will significantly reduce the need for labor resources while increasing profitability. Tom Lee is convinced that leading institutions like JPMorgan and Goldman Sachs will gradually adopt traits of classic tech companies.

This is not just cosmetic change but a rethinking of the business model. Financial giants armed with advanced technologies may position themselves as the next technological leaders. Such a scenario opens new opportunities for shareholders and sectors exposed to digital transformation.

Cautious Optimism

Tom Lee’s forecast is not unconditional optimism. Historical data shows an interesting pattern: if the market has demonstrated growth of over 20% for three consecutive years, there is a 50% chance of even better results in the fourth year. However, he warns of a key risk—the overconfidence of market participants.

Nevertheless, current investor caution and skepticism can serve as a natural counterbalance to this risk. The fact that the market has already experienced significant fluctuations and players remain reserved may protect against extreme overestimations.

Conclusion

The anticipated scenario for 2026 outlines a complex but promising picture. The Federal Reserve System, soft monetary policy, blockchain development, and AI—all these factors could converge into a new era for the industry. Tom Lee offers a balance between optimism about potential and caution regarding risks, which remains the smartest approach in an unstable environment.