MSCI Adopts New Rules for Index Exclusion, Potentially Affecting Crypto Companies
Overview
MSCI has adopted a new methodology that could lead to the removal of certain crypto-related companies from its global indexes. This change follows a proposal in August, targeting "non-operating companies." As a result, companies like Strategy (MSTR), Metaplanet, Upexi, and several others face potential exclusion.
Key Points
- Index Provider: MSCI
- Impact: New rules may remove companies from MSCI's Global Investable Market Indexes.
- Affected Companies: Strategy (MSTR), Metaplanet, Upexi, Sharplink (SBET), Ton Strategy (TONX), Solana (HSDT), DeFi Development (DFDV), and others.
- Criteria: The methodology assesses companies based on operating assets and five financial ratios, with potential ineligibility for those failing at least four tests.
- Timeline: Final list release on Nov. 11, 2026, with removal effective from Nov. 30, 2026.
- Estimated Impact: JPMorgan analysts predict significant selling if Strategy is excluded, previously estimated at $2.8 billion.
Quotes and Sources
“It removes a company from the default portfolios of tens of millions of people who never chose to remove it,” said Conner Brown, executive director of the Bitcoin Policy Institute.
Related News
- Strategy's Response: In August, Strategy opposed the changes but downplayed potential disruption, noting that fund holdings were minimal.
- Mastercard and Stablecoins: In a separate news item, Mastercard announces the integration of stablecoin balances into traditional banking and card payments.
- Tron's Share Offering: Nasdaq-listed Tron plans a $200 million ATM share offering to fuel TRX acquisitions.