MSCI Isn't Wrong to Be Cautious on DATs

Core Viewpoint - MSCI is considering the exclusion of digital asset treasuries (DATs) from its indexes, which has caused significant concern within the crypto community, especially after JP Morgan's mention of "Operation Chokepoint" [1] Group 1: MSCI's Role and Index Methodology - MSCI is a major index provider with over $18 trillion in ETFs and institutional assets linked to its benchmarks, emphasizing investor protection in its index methodology [2] - The approval of an asset for inclusion in MSCI's indexes carries substantial influence, raising questions about whether DATs meet the necessary benchmarks [2] Group 2: The Rise of Digital Asset Treasuries - Strategy (formerly MicroStrategy) was the first significant player in the Bitcoin treasury space, transitioning from a software business to a leveraged BTC investment under Michael Saylor's leadership [3] - The share price of MSTR increased over 3,000% from its first Bitcoin purchase in August 2020 to its peak in June 2025, prompting other companies to enter the DAT market [4] - The number of corporate entities holding DATs surged from 4 in 2020 to 142 by October 2025, with over half established in the current year [4] Group 3: Challenges Faced by Digital Asset Treasuries - Many new corporate entities acquired crypto under less favorable conditions compared to Strategy, with some issuing secured debt that imposes stricter collateral requirements [5] - The recent crypto market downturn has significantly impacted DATs, reducing their combined market cap from $176 billion in July to approximately $99 billion by mid-November, with many trading below their net asset values [6] - Early investors in DATs are experiencing losses as stock prices decline amid the market sell-off [6]