Nasdaq Seeks Rapid SEC Approval to Tokenize Stocks
Nasdaq is urging the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for swift approval of plans to tokenize shares and expand digital asset services. The exchange is working with partners and has been advancing pilots and technology to offer tokenized U.S. equities, citing potential benefits such as faster settlement, 24/7 trading, and fractional ownership. Nasdaq argues tokenized stocks could increase market efficiency and broaden investor access, while stressing regulatory clarity and SEC endorsement are essential. The push comes amid broader industry momentum for digital securities and tokenization, and ongoing regulatory scrutiny of crypto markets. Nasdaq’s move aims to position it competitively as demand for digital asset infrastructure grows, but the path hinges on SEC decisions and compliance with securities laws.
Neutral
Nasdaq’s push for SEC approval to tokenize stocks is strategically significant but not immediately market-moving for crypto prices. Positive effect: approval would validate tokenized securities, expand institutional use cases, and strengthen demand for on-chain infrastructure—potentially bullish for tokenization platforms and exchange-native tokens over the medium to long term. Negative/neutral factors: regulatory uncertainty and SEC scrutiny mean approval is uncertain and could take time; tokenized stocks are primarily securities, so impacts on mainstream crypto (BTC, ETH) may be indirect. Historically, regulatory greenlights (e.g., spot ETF approvals) produced positive sentiment and flows, but protracted reviews or denials can mute market reaction. Short-term impact is likely muted as traders wait for regulatory decisions; medium-to-long-term impact is cautiously bullish for projects and services enabling compliant tokenized securities if SEC approval or clear pathways emerge.