Nasdaq's head of digital assets explains exchange's push to launch trading of tokenized stocks

Core Viewpoint - NASDAQ is advancing its involvement in digital assets by filing an application with the SEC to allow trading of tokenized stocks and ETPs, aiming to bridge the digital and traditional asset worlds while prioritizing investor rights and protections [1][3][4]. Group 1: Tokenized Assets and Investor Choice - The proposed rule change allows investors to choose between holding assets in tokenized form on the blockchain or in traditional accounts, emphasizing investor-first principles [3][4]. - The tokenized stocks will maintain the same ticker and be fully fungible with their traditional counterparts, ensuring that investors retain full rights and titles [5][6]. Group 2: Market Structure and Trading Process - The trading of tokenized assets will occur under existing SEC rules, ensuring that the current market structure remains intact while integrating new technologies [9][10]. - NASDAQ aims to maintain liquidity and depth in the market, avoiding fragmentation that could disrupt trading during stress periods [11][12]. Group 3: Benefits of Tokenization - Near-term benefits include process efficiencies in post-trade operations, with potential for faster settlement times in the future [13][14]. - Long-term advantages involve enhanced collateral mobility and capital efficiency, allowing for better utilization of assets in various financial applications [15][16]. Group 4: Regulatory Environment and Industry Collaboration - NASDAQ is committed to evolving the system responsibly, working within regulatory guidelines while promoting innovation in tokenization [19][21]. - The company is collaborating with other firms to mainstream tokenization, ensuring that the transition is beneficial for all market participants [22][24]. Group 5: Historical Context and Future Outlook - NASDAQ has a long history in digital assets, having launched various products and technologies to support the crypto ecosystem, including a crypto custody business and market technology for over 130 markets globally [27][28][29]. - The convergence of traditional finance and DeFi is anticipated, with stable coins and tokenized assets expected to play a significant role in capital efficiency and risk management by 2026 [35][38].