Grayscale has launched the Grayscale Chainlink Trust ETF (GLNK) on NYSE Arca, marking an important milestone for both the company and the broader crypto ETF landscape. The product was converted from a private trust, originally introduced in 2021, into a fully tradable spot ETF after an amended S-1 filing became automatically effective during the recent SEC approval window. GLNK holds Chainlink‘s LINK token as its sole asset, giving traditional investors regulated and direct exposure to Chainlink‘s expanding oracle ecosystem—without needing to manage crypto themselves. A Grayscale spokesperson explained that Chainlink was a natural fit, highlighting the company‘s long-term support for the project and LINK‘s maturity within the digital infrastructure market.

A unique ETF focused on oracle infrastructure

According to Grayscale, GLNK is the first U.S. ETF to offer targeted exposure to blockchain oracle technology—a key layer that enables smart contracts to access and use real-world data. The ETF‘s prospectus emphasizes Chainlink‘s critical role in blockchain development, including secure data feeds, off-chain computation, and interoperability across multiple ecosystems. This ETF gives institutions a straightforward way to invest in Chainlink‘s infrastructure layer, which underpins use cases across DeFi, gaming, insurance, trading, and cross-chain messaging.

Following the model used for DOGE and XRP ETFs

GLNK follows the same conversion model that Grayscale used for its DOGE and XRP ETFs, which also trade on NYSE Arca. Just like those products, GLNK uses a cash-only creation and redemption mechanism. This can lead to slightly wider bid–ask spreads during early trading as market makers adjust, but it aligns fully with SEC requirements and provides a compliant pathway for launching spot ETFs for altcoins. Grayscale notes that the SEC‘s updated listing standards, approved in September, made this launch possible. Under these rules, the registration became effective after 20 days, even during the government shutdown.

Strong trading debut highlights investor interest

GLNK experienced a strong first day of trading, fueled by interest from both retail and institutional investors. Key figures from launch day include:

1.17 million shares traded — far above the previous OTC average of 42,000 shares

Closing price of $11.89, up 5.8% on the day

After-hours trading pushed the price to approximately $12

Grayscale reported broad enthusiasm and healthy secondary market activity, showing the growing demand for regulated exposure to Chainlink‘s infrastructure layer.

Disclaimer

This article is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice. Cryptocurrency investments involve risk. Always do your own research and consult a financial advisor when necessary.