The Nasdaq has expanded its Crypto US Index (NCIUS) to include four major altcoins: XRP, Stellar (XLM), Solana (SOL), and Cardano (ADA). This update reflects the index's goal to track a "material portion" of the digital asset market, enhancing its relevance for investors.
Key Updates to the NCIUS Index
- Originally limited to Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH).
- New additions: XRP, XLM, SOL, and ADA (integrated earlier this month).
- Purpose: Broader market representation for institutional and retail investors.
👉 Explore crypto index trends
Hashdex ETF Adjustments
Hashdex, the firm offering an ETF tied to NCIUS, filed a disclosure with the SEC highlighting operational constraints:
- Current restrictions: ETF can only hold BTC and ETH due to SEC regulations.
- Sampling strategy: Adjusts BTC/ETH allocations to mimic NCIUS performance but risks tracking errors due to excluded assets.
Pending SEC Decision
Nasdaq has proposed a rule change to allow the Hashdex ETF to switch its benchmark to the Nasdaq Crypto Index (NCI), which includes:
- 6 major cryptos: BTC, ETH, XRP, XLM, SOL, ADA.
- Additional assets: Litecoin (LTC), Uniswap (UNI), Chainlink (LINK).
The SEC’s decision is expected by November 2025.
Market Implications
- Increased legitimacy: Nasdaq’s inclusion signals growing institutional acceptance of altcoins.
- Investor access: Broader indices may pave the way for more diversified crypto ETFs.
👉 Stay updated on ETF developments
FAQ Section
Why did Nasdaq add these altcoins?
To better reflect the cryptocurrency market’s diversity beyond BTC and ETH.
Can the Hashdex ETF hold XRP or ADA?
Not currently—SEC rules limit it to BTC and ETH.
What’s the difference between NCIUS and NCI?
NCIUS tracks 6 assets; NCI includes 9 (adding LTC, UNI, LINK).
When will the SEC rule change take effect?
A decision is anticipated by November 2025.