The biggest advancement is the use of cryptocurrencies for payments. Some countries like Japan have legalized payments useful Bitcoin.
Many banks/financial institutions across the world are testing/piloting use of blockchain/cryptocurrencies for cross border transfers/remittances.
Gradually all commodities are being converted to crypto-assets bringing them all onto a single platform thus simplifying trade.
Cryptocurrency based financial instruments are gradually making their way into mainstream financial markets. Bitcoin based futures trading is already on in the US and ETF's are awaiting regulatory approval.
Blockchain based lending solutions will soon make its way into financial institutions.