Grayscale Files for First-Ever Cardano ETF on NYSE

Crypto investment firm Grayscale has officially filed to list a Cardano (ADA) exchange-traded fund (ETF) on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), marking a significant step toward bringing ADA to mainstream financial markets.

Breaking New Ground with a Cardano ETF

If approved, Grayscale’s Cardano ETF would be the first exchange-traded product for the Cardano blockchain, adding to the firm’s growing lineup of crypto ETFs. Grayscale already offers:

• Grayscale Bitcoin Trust ETF
• Bitcoin Mini Trust ETF
• Ethereum Trust ETF
• Ethereum Mini ETF

While Grayscale has previously explored ADA investment products, this is its first standalone ADA offering.

Regulatory and Market Considerations

The filing states that the ETF’s approval would “promote just and equitable principles of trade”, emphasizing that a considerable amount of ADA price and market data is publicly available. The proposed rule change falls under NYSE Arca Rule 8.201-E, which allows for the listing of Commodity-Based Trust Shares.

Grayscale’s Expanding Crypto Investment Offerings

Grayscale currently manages over 20 crypto-related investment products, including trusts for Avalanche, Solana, and Dogecoin. The firm pioneered Bitcoin investment vehicles, launching the Grayscale Bitcoin Trust in 2013, which was converted into an ETF in 2023.

SEC’s Stance on Crypto ETFs

So far, only Bitcoin and Ethereum spot ETFs have been approved in the United States. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) remains cautious about approving other crypto-based ETFs, making Grayscale’s filing a pivotal test for Cardano’s acceptance in traditional finance.

With this move, Grayscale aims to expand institutional access to ADA, potentially setting the stage for further crypto ETF approvals in the future.