Nasdaq and CME Relaunch the Next Generation Crypto Index

TLDR

• Nasdaq & CME launch regulated crypto index for multi-asset exposure.
• Index leverages 30 years of market expertise for crypto investors.
• Governance & transparency ensure credible, regulated crypto benchmarks.
• Supports ETFs, derivatives, and professional portfolio strategies.
• Strengthens global digital asset access with consistent market standards.

Nasdaq and CME Group have relaunched the Nasdaq CME Crypto Index, offering a multi-asset benchmark for digital assets. The new crypto index targets transparent and regulated exposure across several cryptocurrencies. It aims to support long-term strategies while combining traditional market expertise with digital asset innovation.

Building on Established Market Expertise

The Nasdaq CME Crypto Index builds on nearly 30 years of partnership between Nasdaq and CME Group. The firms collaborated previously on Nasdaq-100 Index futures, E-mini Nasdaq-100 futures, and a wide range of equity derivatives. Their experience in creating liquid, regulated products forms the foundation for the new crypto index.

The index applies expertise from traditional markets to the emerging digital asset space. It leverages structured governance and clearly defined methodology to ensure credibility and transparency. Market participants can access a trusted benchmark that aligns with evolving regulatory standards.

CF Benchmarks calculates the crypto index, drawing on vetted exchanges and approved custodians. A joint governance committee oversees the methodology, eligibility criteria, and quarterly reconstitution schedule. This ensures the index maintains a consistent and regulated framework for multi-asset exposure.

Governance and Transparency at Core

The Nasdaq CME Crypto Index emphasizes governance, a key factor in establishing confidence in digital asset products. Transparency is maintained through published rules on liquidity thresholds, weighting, and selection criteria. Institutional frameworks mirror standards long applied to traditional asset classes, supporting broader adoption.

The index facilitates regulatory alignment for derivative and fund creation across the U.S., Europe, and Latin America. It provides a consistent reference point for ETFs, structured products, and actively managed crypto funds. This structure helps streamline product development and professional portfolio construction in the crypto market.

Nasdaq and CME Group aim to reduce market fragmentation and operational risks. The index’s multi-asset approach allows broader market representation beyond single cryptocurrencies. It supports long-term strategies that were previously challenging in an evolving asset class.

Global Reach and Market Impact

The Nasdaq CME Crypto Index forms the foundation for digital asset exposure in multiple regions. Licensed products, including ETFs with Hashdex, already manage over $1 billion in assets. The index strengthens global investor access while fostering consistency and credibility in crypto markets.

Its introduction also enhances derivative liquidity, enabling transparent price discovery and risk management strategies. By combining Nasdaq’s index expertise with CME’s regulated derivatives experience, the crypto index supports sophisticated market participation. The initiative signals a maturation of digital asset infrastructure worldwide.

The Nasdaq CME Crypto Index positions itself as a key benchmark for professional digital asset strategies. It connects traditional finance rigor with crypto innovation, encouraging broader adoption across portfolios. The launch reinforces Nasdaq and CME Group’s role in shaping the next generation of regulated digital asset markets.

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