Nasdaq Targets Major Altcoins in ETF Plan

Nasdaq has filed a proposal with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to expand its Hashdex Nasdaq Crypto Index US ETF. This proposed change would allow the ETF, which originally tracked only Bitcoin and Ethereum, to include a total of nine leading cryptocurrencies. Notable additions are XRP, Solana, Cardano, Stellar Lumens, Chainlink, Litecoin, and Uniswap. The final decision by the SEC is expected by November 2, 2025.

Why Shift to a Broader Index?

The aim is to transform the ETF from a narrowly focused vehicle into a multi-asset one. By integrating more assets, the new index can provide a wider view of the cryptocurrency market. This broader perspective might help investors observe major market trends through a singular benchmark.

Regulatory restrictions currently prevent Hashdex from holding all cryptocurrencies directly. To address this limitation, the firm employs a “sampling” strategy, which constructs a portfolio that approximates the target index within existing constraints.

What Awaits SEC’s Decision?

The SEC’s decision could redefine the ETF’s structure significantly. Approval would permit inclusion of all nine digital currencies, offering a regulated way for investors to gain altcoin exposure. This change could lead to increased demand from institutional investors.

However, the SEC’s recent cautious approach adds an element of uncertainty to the outcome for multiple cryptocurrency-focused ETF applications. The broader impacts of this decision could reshape both the U.S. ETF landscape and the liquidity of the altcoin market.

How Might the Expanded Index Influence Markets?

Including more altcoins could modify the risk-return dynamics of the ETF. A diversified asset base may help reduce volatility, enabling investors to access a balanced portfolio of digital currencies through one product.

This update could also mark a significant step forward for altcoin presence in regulated markets. As these cryptocurrencies are introduced to a wider audience, improved liquidity and enhanced price discovery could follow, benefiting the entire sector.

Key takeaways from this development:

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Potential increase in institutional investment due to regulated altcoin exposure.

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Expansion of the ETF aims at offering a more comprehensive market representation.

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The SEC’s decision will be closely watched for its broader implications on the ETF industry.

As the date for the SEC’s decision approaches, anticipation builds around whether Nasdaq’s initiative will gain the green light. The expansion could pave the way for an evolved landscape in cryptocurrency investments, especially affecting altcoin performance and visibility.