Real-world asset (RWA) protocols are reshaping the DeFi landscape faster than most anticipated. They've now climbed to fifth place by total value locked, crossing the $17 billion mark—a milestone that speaks volumes about how the market is evolving. Tokenized Treasurys, private credit instruments, and commodity derivatives are no longer fringe experiments; they're becoming fundamental infrastructure in onchain finance. What's striking is how RWA protocols have outpaced decentralized exchanges in the rankings. This shift reflects a broader industry transition: from pure speculation toward asset classes with real-world backing. The convergence of traditional finance and blockchain is accelerating, and these numbers prove it's not just hype—it's structural.