Bitwise Proposes First U.S. Chainlink Spot ETF

Published: 2025-08-27 09:05:08 |

On August 27, 2025, Bitwise Asset Management filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to launch the first exchange-traded fund (ETF) tracking Chainlink. The proposed Chainlink ETF would mirror the Chainlink Reference Index maintained by CF Benchmarks, drawing aggregated price data from multiple exchanges. This structure aims to deliver regulated exposure to LINK, address custody risk via approved custodians, and implement robust market surveillance. If approved, the ETF could streamline access to Chainlink tokens through brokerage accounts and retirement platforms, bridging DeFi infrastructure with traditional finance. The SEC’s review will focus on custody safeguards, valuation methods, index methodology, and surveillance against market manipulation. Approval or rejection may take several months, including a public comment period and possible amendments. Traders interested in LINK exposure should verify brokerage readiness, review the fund prospectus for fees and custodial details, and monitor SEC filings. A Chainlink ETF promises simplified custody, institutional participation, and broader market integrity.

Bullish

Bitwise’s Chainlink ETF filing is likely to be bullish for LINK. Historically, announcements of crypto spot ETFs, such as Bitcoin ETF proposals, have led to increased demand and price appreciation as institutional investors gain regulated access. A Chainlink ETF would reduce custody risk, attract a broader investor base via brokerage accounts and retirement platforms, and signal SEC acceptance of tokenized assets. Short-term, LINK could see speculative buying around key regulatory milestones. Long-term, if approved, the ETF could generate sustained inflows from institutional and retail funds seeking diversified DeFi exposure. The emphasis on CF Benchmarks’ index methodology and custody safeguards strengthens market integrity, further improving investor confidence. Overall, the integration of Chainlink into traditional finance channels presents a favorable outlook for LINK’s liquidity and price stability.