- Cardano’s inclusion in the Nasdaq Crypto Index marks a major step toward institutional adoption and Wall Street exposure.
- While ADA’s price dipped over 10% this week, the move signals growing long-term interest from traditional investors.
A Major Step Toward Institutional Adoption
Cardano (ADA), one of the top ten cryptocurrencies by market cap, has achieved a notable milestone—its official inclusion in the Nasdaq Crypto Index (NCIUS). This move, announced as part of a broader index reconstitution, places Cardano alongside crypto heavyweights like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, XRP, and Stellar, signaling a dramatic shift in institutional recognition for ADA.
This development is not just symbolic. The Nasdaq index is a benchmark for the Hashdex Nasdaq Crypto Index U.S. ETF—an exchange-traded fund closely watched by Wall Street investors. With Cardano now part of this benchmark, it takes a major leap closer to being embraced by traditional investment vehicles.
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Price Drop vs. Institutional Hope
Despite the big news, ADA’s price did not rally. On the contrary, it slipped over 10% in a week and was trading around $0.6647 at the time of the announcement. This might seem like a contradiction, but it highlights a key point: short-term price volatility does not necessarily reflect long-term institutional potential.
Crypto enthusiasts, particularly the Cardano community, welcomed the inclusion. As posted by the Cardanians on X, this moment could “bring Cardano closer to Wall Street and traditional markets.” It’s a win for long-term believers, even if the market hasn’t reacted just yet.
SEC Decision Could Unlock True Potential
The Nasdaq inclusion could be just the beginning. Nasdaq has submitted a proposal to the U.S. SEC to allow the Hashdex ETF to expand its holdings beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum. If approved by November 2, 2025, the ETF could begin including ADA, along with other major altcoins like Chainlink, Uniswap, and Litecoin.
This proposed change could significantly increase demand for ADA and other listed assets as institutions gain regulatory clarity and access. It marks a critical point in crypto’s integration with traditional finance—turning what was once speculation into structured investment opportunities.
Cardano’s addition to the Nasdaq Crypto Index is more than just a line on a list—it’s a powerful symbol of growing institutional interest and mainstream acceptance. While the short-term price may falter, the long-term implications are huge. Wall Street is watching—and Cardano just stepped into the spotlight.