Nasdaq Seeks SEC Approval to Expand Crypto Index

3 mins mins

Key Points:

Nasdaq’s SEC filing to add XRP, SOL, ADA, XLM to index.
Potential ETF diversification step for U.S. market.
SEC decision anticipated by November 2, 2025.

On June 7, 2025, Nasdaq applied to the U.S. SEC to expand its cryptocurrency index by including XRP, Solana (SOL), Cardano (ADA), and Stellar Lumens (XLM). This proposal could pivot the U.S. crypto ETF landscape towards broader diversification, significantly impacting on market dynamics.

Nasdaq’s proposal to the SEC to incorporate XRP, SOL, ADA, and XLM into its cryptocurrency index is a significant step in broadening asset inclusion. Currently, these tokens are not tracked by the Hashdex Nasdaq Crypto Index ETF (NCIQ), which, due to regulatory constraints, can only invest in Bitcoin and Ethereum. If approved, this change would allow NCIQ to include all components in the broader Nasdaq Crypto Index (NCI). This potential diversification is seen as crucial for expanding ETF investment options beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum. Market sentiment indicates optimism, with analysts suggesting potential regulatory endorsements could lead to increased on-chain activities and higher staking or DeFi participation. As markets await SEC’s decision, industry experts maintain a measured outlook while observing potential precedents set by past Bitcoin and Ethereum ETF approvals.

Nasdaq Proposes XRP and ADA to Diversify ETF Options

Did you know?
The potential inclusion of XRP, SOL, ADA, and XLM reflects Nasdaq’s move to embrace these altcoins, signaling increased acceptance within traditional financial markets, similar to when Bitcoin and Ethereum first joined major indices, heralding a rise in broader institutional involvement.

The Coincu research team indicates that adding these tokens to Nasdaq’s index may pave the way for diversified investment avenues, aligning with trends seen in regions with established crypto-friendly regulations. Potential technological advancements and evolving market practices will play pivotal roles in shaping future outcomes.

“The inclusion of these cryptocurrencies in the NCIUS index symbolizes regulatory acceptance, indicating that these tokens meet the SEC’s rigorous standards for inclusion in a financial product governed by U.S. securities laws.” — AInvest Analyst, Cryptocurrency Analyst, AInvest, source

Altcoins Set for Inclusion as Nasdaq Awaits SEC Decision

Did you know? The potential inclusion of XRP, SOL, ADA, and XLM reflects Nasdaq’s move to embrace these altcoins, signaling increased acceptance within traditional financial markets, similar to when Bitcoin and Ethereum first joined major indices, heralding a rise in broader institutional involvement.

XRP, with a market cap of $132.13 billion and a 24-hour trading volume of $2.82 billion, has shown a 3.27% increase in the last 24 hours, according to CoinMarketCap. The token’s price has varied over multiple periods, with a recent 60-day increase of 11.74%, reflecting market volatility amid broader regulatory discussions.