Bitwise’s Chainlink ETF Moves Closer to U.S. Approval After DTCC Listing

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Bitwise’s Chainlink ETF Moves Closer to U.S. Approval After DTCC Listing

Bitwise Asset Management announced on Monday that its proposed Chainlink (LINK) exchange-traded fund (ETF) has been added to the Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation (DTCC) eligibility list, which is a key milestone in bringing the product closer to potential U.S. market approval.

ETF Structure and Regulatory Progress

Bitwise initially filed a preliminary registration statement (Form S-1) with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in August 2025, seeking approval for a passively managed ETF designed to mirror the performance of Chainlink (LINK).

The fund has now met DTCC’s operational and settlement infrastructure requirements, earning a spot on the DTCC eligibility list. However, this inclusion does not constitute SEC approval , and it merely indicates readiness for potential clearing and settlement once regulatory authorization is granted.

The ETF will be passively managed, without engaging in active trading or hedging strategies. Custody of LINK tokens will be handled by Coinbase Custody Trust Company, while pricing will be based on the CME CF Chainlink-Dollar Reference Rate, provided by CF Benchmarks.

Bitwise is expected to submit an additional Form 19b-4, the next regulatory step required for final SEC approval and exchange listing.

Institutional Interest in Chainlink on the Rise

Chainlink serves as a decentralized oracle network connecting blockchain smart contracts with real-world data , which is a vital role in the growing Web3 and DeFi ecosystems.

The network has established collaborations with major financial players including SWIFT, Visa, and Mastercard, further bolstering institutional confidence in LINK.

Bitwise’s Chainlink ETF filing follows the successful rollout of Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) ETFs earlier this year, signaling continued institutional adoption of crypto-linked financial products.

Over the 30 days preceding the ETF filing, LINK’s price surged by 26% to USD 24.18, as investors anticipated potential regulatory breakthroughs. Roughly USD 1.4 million worth of LINK was reportedly purchased in anticipation of ETF approval.

Other asset managers, such as Grayscale and Tuttle Capital, are also exploring Chainlink-based ETF products, intensifying competition within the growing crypto ETF market.

 

By Patrick Johnson

Patrick Johnson is a seasoned crypto journalist and analyst with a sharp eye for emerging trends in blockchain, DeFi, NFTs, and Web3 innovation. With a background in tech writing and years of experience tracking digital assets, Patrick breaks down complex topics into clear, actionable insights for investors, builders, and curious readers alike. His work spans market analysis, crypto regulation, decentralized finance ecosystems, and interviews with founders shaping the next phase of the internet. Patrick's writing has appeared in leading crypto publications and has earned a reputation for depth, clarity, and a no-hype approach to crypto journalism. When he’s not decoding the latest protocol upgrade or reporting on DAO governance shifts, you’ll find him experimenting with smart contracts or hiking off-grid, because even crypto authors need to unplug sometimes.