Bitwise Launches Chainlink ETF as Institutional Demand Rises

• Bitwise launches CLNK ETF to give investors regulated access to Chainlink infrastructure without holding LINK tokens directly.
• The new Chainlink ETF joins Grayscale on NYSE Arca showing rising institutional demand for crypto infrastructure assets.
• CLNK reflects a shift toward blockchain utility investments as regulators allow broader expansion of crypto ETFs.

Bitwise has launched a new exchange-traded product tied to Chainlink, expanding investor access to crypto infrastructure assets. The product trades under the ticker CLNK and is now live on NYSE Arca.

The launch adds another regulated option for investors seeking exposure beyond bitcoin and ether. Moreover, it reflects a growing focus on blockchain infrastructure within U.S. ETF markets.

CLNK provides spot exposure to the Chainlink ecosystem without requiring direct token custody. Bitwise structured the product to track Chainlink’s market performance closely. As a result, investors can access LINK exposure through traditional brokerage accounts. The firm continues to broaden its ETF lineup as institutional interest in crypto products rises.

Bitwise highlighted Chainlink’s role as a core infrastructure layer within blockchain markets. The network connects smart contracts with verified off-chain data. Consequently, it supports decentralized finance, tokenization, and settlement use cases. These functions place Chainlink at the center of several production-level blockchain systems.

Chainlink supports a wide range of blockchain applications across multiple sectors. Its oracle services help smart contracts access pricing data and external information. According to industry data, more than $75 billion in DeFi contracts rely on Chainlink feeds. In addition, the network has facilitated over $27 trillion in transaction value.

This infrastructure focus shapes Bitwise’s investment thesis. The firm positions CLNK as exposure to blockchain functionality rather than short-term token trading. Therefore, the product targets investors focused on long-term adoption trends. This approach aligns with increasing institutional demand for infrastructure-based crypto assets.

Bitwise now joins Grayscale within the U.S. Chainlink ETF market. Grayscale launched its own Chainlink ETF in December, marking the first such product. Since launch, Grayscale’s fund has recorded $63.78 million in cumulative inflows. The arrival of CLNK introduces competition within this niche ETF segment.

Both products trade on NYSE Arca, a major venue for exchange-traded products. The presence of two Chainlink ETFs suggests sustained investor interest. Moreover, it indicates that infrastructure tokens now attract similar attention as major cryptocurrencies.

The Bitwise Chainlink ETF carries a 0.34% annual management fee. However, the firm waived fees for the first three months on assets up to $500 million. This structure aims to support early liquidity. Meanwhile, LINK remains among the top 25 cryptocurrencies by market capitalization, exceeding $9.5 billion.

The launch coincides with faster crypto ETF approvals in the United States. Regulatory clarity has improved following leadership changes at the Securities and Exchange Commission. In addition, policymakers have adopted a more constructive stance toward digital assets.