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- Bitwise’s Chainlink ETF (CLNK) is now listed as active on DTCC, signaling launch readiness.
- SEC approval could make it the first U.S. ETF tied to a decentralized oracle network.
- New SEC rules may accelerate altcoin ETF listings amid growing institutional demand.
Bitwise’s proposed Chainlink ETF (ticker: CLNK) has been listed on the DTCC’s active and pre-launch categories, signaling the fund may soon debut on U.S. exchanges. The move, while not final SEC approval, is often seen as one of the last steps before a product goes live.
The Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation (DTCC) plays a critical role in Wall Street’s financial plumbing, managing post-trade settlement and record-keeping for stocks and ETFs. A DTCC listing typically indicates that technical preparations for trading are complete and that only final regulatory clearance is pending.
Bitwise and Grayscale Race to Bring LINK Exposure to Market
Bitwise, one of the largest U.S. crypto asset managers, first filed its Form S-1 in August for an ETF designed to track Chainlink (LINK)—the decentralized oracle network connecting blockchain smart contracts to real-world data.
The company has not yet filed its Form 8-A, which is required before listing on an exchange. Meanwhile, Grayscale is also pursuing a spot Chainlink ETF that includes staking components, though analysts expect it to face stricter SEC scrutiny given regulators’ caution around staking.
If approved, the Bitwise Chainlink ETF would be one of the first U.S. ETFs offering direct exposure to a decentralized oracle network, highlighting growing institutional interest in altcoin-based investment products.
ETF Momentum Builds Despite Market Volatility
The listing comes amid a broader surge of spot crypto ETF applications. However, progress has been slowed by the ongoing U.S. government shutdown, now entering its 42nd day. The SEC has been operating with limited staff, delaying reviews of several filings.
Still, the SEC’s new generic listing standards, introduced in September, could streamline future approvals for crypto ETFs tied to assets like Solana (SOL), Avalanche (AVAX), Dogecoin (DOGE), and Hedera (HBAR).
Outlook: Institutional Crypto Access Expands
If cleared, the Bitwise Chainlink ETF would mark another step toward mainstream adoption of decentralized finance in traditional markets. Despite recent $1.17 billion in crypto fund outflows, investor interest in altcoin exposure remains strong—particularly for assets tied to real-world utility like Chainlink.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The author’s views are personal and may not reflect the views of Chain Affairs. Before making any investment decisions, you should always conduct your own research. Chain Affairs is not responsible for any financial losses.
Also Read: Chainlink (LINK) ETFs 2025: Spot, Staked & Leveraged Options
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