The rise of real-world asset (RWA) tokenization has captured global attention, especially following regulatory approvals for Bitcoin and Ethereum spot ETFs. As traditional finance (TradFi) and decentralized finance (DeFi) increasingly converge, demand for asset-backed digital tokens is surging. At the forefront of this transformation, Matrixdock, the RWA-focused brand under crypto financial services leader Matrixport, launched XAUm — a gold-backed digital token — on September 16, 2025.
Designed to tap into the $10 trillion+ gold market, XAUm represents a strategic step toward merging physical precious metals with blockchain efficiency. In an exclusive conversation with Eva, Business Lead at Matrixdock, we explore the vision behind XAUm, its unique value proposition, and how it's shaping the future of asset tokenization.
Why RWA? The Strategic Vision Behind Matrixdock
Eva explains that Matrixdock was born from a clear market insight: the growing need for interoperability between DeFi capital and TradFi assets.
"In April 2022, Matrixport established its dedicated RWA team. By late 2022, we launched Matrixdock as a standalone brand. Our early success with STBT — Asia’s first tokenized U.S. Treasury bond and the region’s highest-ever locked-value RWA project — proved that real-world assets could thrive on-chain when structured correctly."
With central banks signaling a potential shift into interest rate cuts, demand for inflation-resistant, yield-generating assets is rising. Matrixdock positions itself at the intersection of these trends, aiming to become the go-to platform for investing in tokenized RWAs.
The launch of XAUm, Matrixdock’s first precious metals product, marks a new chapter in expanding accessible, secure, and compliant on-chain asset options.
What Is XAUm? A New Standard in Gold Tokenization
XAUm is a digital token backed 1:1 by LBMA-certified physical gold, with each token representing one troy ounce (31.1 grams) of gold with a purity of at least 99.99%. Unlike synthetic or algorithmically stabilized assets, XAUm adheres to the principle of “asset-first, token-second” — meaning every token is fully backed by audited, vaulted gold before issuance.
This design ensures transparency, security, and trust, addressing key concerns in both crypto and traditional finance circles.
Key Advantages Over Traditional Gold Investments
Compared to conventional gold investment methods — such as physical bullion, ETFs, or futures — XAUm offers several compelling benefits:
- Lower Entry Barrier: Investors can access LBMA-grade gold starting from just one troy ounce, removing the high minimums and logistical hurdles of traditional purchases.
- Reduced Costs: No hidden fees for storage, insurance, or transportation. XAUm provides direct access to LBMA pricing without traditional markups.
- On-Chain Flexibility: Tokens can be held, transferred, or used across DeFi protocols seamlessly. Future integrations will include lending and derivatives markets.
- Redemption Rights: Users can request redemption of their corresponding physical gold bars from secure vaults in Singapore or Hong Kong.
Additionally, XAUm supports NFT-token interoperability — allowing users to convert holdings into NFTs for enhanced traceability or collateral use in CeFi/DeFi applications.
How XAUm Works: A 6-Step Asset Lifecycle
The operational framework behind XAUm emphasizes security and verifiability:
- A client submits a request to mint XAUm tokens.
- Matrixdock procures LBMA-compliant gold through trusted refiners like Heraeus and Point Gold.
- The gold is transported via Brink’s to LBMA-accredited vaults.
- Vault operators provide detailed asset reports listing bar serial numbers and weights.
- Only after confirmation does Matrixdock mint and deliver the corresponding XAUm tokens.
- Upon redemption requests, tokens are burned, and physical delivery is arranged.
This process ensures that supply never exceeds underlying reserves, reinforcing trust through verifiable scarcity.
For small orders, delivery is typically T+0 due to pre-existing inventory. Larger transactions require T+2 processing, accounting for procurement and verification timelines. The team continues optimizing logistics to improve speed without compromising safety.
Ensuring Trust: Transparency, Compliance & Security
In an industry where credibility is paramount, Matrixdock implements multiple layers of assurance:
🔹 Asset Transparency
- On-chain proof of reserves: Real-time visibility into gold backing via public dashboards.
- Audits by third parties: Regular attestations from independent auditors confirm asset parity.
- Clear parity rule: 1 XAUm = 1 troy ounce of gold — simple, auditable, and reliable.
🔹 Regulatory Safeguards
- SPV structure: Assets are held in a Special Purpose Vehicle, legally isolated from Matrixdock’s corporate balance sheet.
- Top-tier partners: Gold sourced from Heraeus and Point Gold; logistics managed by Brink’s; custody in LBMA-approved facilities.
🔹 Regional Strategy
Operations are centered in Singapore and Hong Kong, jurisdictions known for favorable gold trading regulations and strong investor protections. This enables smooth physical redemptions and aligns with regional demand patterns.
Why Focus on Asia?
Asia accounts for over half of global gold demand, driven by cultural affinity, wealth preservation habits, and economic uncertainty hedging.
“Gold isn’t just an asset here — it’s heritage,” says Eva. “From wedding dowries to family savings, its role goes beyond finance.”
By anchoring operations in Asia while building global blockchain compatibility, Matrixdock taps into deep-rooted demand while offering modern financial tools. Localized support for physical redemption further strengthens user confidence.
The Broader RWA Landscape: Opportunities & Challenges
RWA tokenization is evolving rapidly:
- Stablecoins were the first wave — digitizing fiat value.
- Tokenized U.S. Treasuries followed, offering yield in a low-risk format. The market grew from $769 million in early 2024 to over $2.2 billion by October 2025.
- Now comes commodities, like gold via XAUm, alongside tokenized equities, private credit, and real estate.
👉 See how real-world assets are redefining digital finance — unlock new investment frontiers today.
Yet challenges remain:
- Complex legal and compliance frameworks across jurisdictions
- Need for robust custody solutions
- Balancing decentralization with regulatory requirements
Matrixdock’s strategy? "Anchor in crypto, expand asset boundaries." By starting with trusted assets like gold and U.S. bonds, they build credibility before scaling into more complex RWAs.
Multi-Chain Expansion & Ecosystem Integration
XAUm is already available natively on Ethereum and BNB Chain, enabling seamless integration with major DeFi platforms.
Future plans include expansion to other ecosystems — including the Bitcoin network via layer-2 solutions — to maximize accessibility.
As part of the broader Matrixport ecosystem, XAUm will soon be accessible through the Matrixport app, unlocking features like:
- Gold-backed lending
- Staking rewards
- Cross-chain portfolio management
This integration enhances utility beyond mere ownership — turning XAUm into a functional financial instrument.
Joining the Tokenized Asset Coalition: A Step Toward Industry Standards
Matrixdock recently joined the Tokenized Asset Coalition (TAC) — a global alliance of over 40 leading RWA innovators including a16z, WisdomTree, and Galaxy. This collaboration aims to:
- Establish common standards for asset tokenization
- Promote regulatory clarity
- Enhance cross-platform interoperability
“Being part of TAC signals that RWAs are no longer niche experiments — they’re becoming core infrastructure,” Eva notes.
FAQ: Your Questions About XAUm Answered
Q: Can I redeem XAUm for physical gold?
A: Yes. Users can redeem their tokens for actual LBMA-certified gold bars stored in Singapore or Hong Kong vaults.
Q: How is XAUm different from other gold-backed tokens?
A: XAUm enforces strict "asset-first" issuance, offers NFT-token conversion, and provides transparent audit trails via trusted third parties.
Q: Is XAUm regulated?
A: While not directly regulated as a security, XAUm operates under compliant structures (SPV), uses regulated custodians, and follows anti-money laundering (AML) protocols.
Q: Where can I trade or store XAUm?
A: XAUm is supported on Ethereum and BNB Chain wallets and select decentralized exchanges. It will also be available on the Matrixport platform.
Q: Does holding XAUm generate yield?
A: Currently, XAUm serves as a store of value. Yield-generating features like lending and staking are planned for future rollout.
Q: What happens if Matrixdock goes out of business?
A: Client assets are protected via SPV bankruptcy isolation — meaning your gold remains safe even in extreme scenarios.
Vision for the Future: Building the Bridge Between Worlds
Matrixdock’s mission is clear: to build a trusted ecosystem where real-world assets flow freely on-chain.
Their vision? To become Asia’s leading platform for on-chain RWAs, empowering investors with transparent, efficient, and secure digital asset solutions.
“We’re not just launching products — we’re helping reshape how capital moves across TradFi and DeFi,” Eva concludes.
With XAUm, Matrixdock isn’t just entering the gold market — it’s reimagining it for the digital age.
👉 Be part of the RWA revolution — start exploring tokenized assets now.