Core Insights - The Cardano Impact for UNHCR ETP (CASL) has been awarded the first prize at the Innovation Challenge Awards, recognizing it as the most innovative solution in humanitarian fundraising among over 160 global projects [1][2][3] - CASL utilizes traditional capital markets public security, enhanced by blockchain technology, to create a sustainable funding stream for non-profit organizations [2] - The initiative aims to bridge the gap between global capital markets and humanitarian assistance, generating both financial returns and social impact [6] Fundraising Innovation - The Reimagining Fundraising initiative was established to drive innovation in the non-profit sector, responding to the need for new solutions to global challenges [4][5] - The first edition of the open innovation challenge in 2020 attracted over 1,500 participants and 230 innovative solutions, leading to the second edition in 2022 with a focus on practical implementation [5] CASL Overview - CASL is the first regulated Exchange-Traded Product (ETP) launched on the SIX Swiss Exchange, backed 1:1 by Cardano (ADA), designed to channel 100% of staking rewards to support UNHCR operations [6][15] - The product operates under Swiss financial regulations, offering transparency and security, and allows investors to retain their ADA holdings while contributing to humanitarian efforts [6][9] Financial Impact - Each ADA token in CASL generates staking rewards, estimated at approximately 3% APY, which could lead to annual donations of $1.5 to $2 million for UNHCR programs, based on an AUM of $50 million [8] - The donation model splits staking yield donations, with 80% directed to UNHCR field operations and 20% to innovation programs utilizing blockchain technology [6] Institutional Engagement - CASL addresses barriers faced by institutional investors in engaging with crypto-native initiatives, simplifying the investment process through established financial infrastructure [7] - The product allows investments in CHF, EUR, or USD, avoiding complexities associated with cryptocurrency wallets [9] Strategic Partnerships - CASL is developed in collaboration with issuance.swiss AG and custody is provided by FINMA-regulated Taurus SA, ensuring compliance and liquidity standards [9][16][17] - The initiative is part of the Private Pledge Initiative launched by the Global Compact on Refugees, which aims to mobilize private finance for refugee support [6]

Core Insights - The launch of the Cardano Impact for UNHCR ETP (CASL) on May 28, 2025, aims to connect institutional capital with humanitarian relief through blockchain technology, addressing the challenges of funding essential services for over 100 million displaced individuals worldwide [1][2]. Product Overview - CASL is the first regulated exchange-traded product that converts blockchain staking rewards into continuous funding for UNHCR, automatically donating 100% of staking rewards to support refugees in over 135 countries [2][4]. - The product is structured to be physically backed 1:1 by Cardano (ADA) and has a management fee of 1.5%, allowing investments in USD, EUR, or CHF without requiring blockchain knowledge [4][16]. Financial Impact - Based on current ADA staking yields of approximately 3.5% APY, the CASL ETP could generate annual donations of $1.5 to $2 million with $50 million in assets under management, directly supporting UNHCR's emergency response and refugee programs [3][4]. Technical and Regulatory Framework - The CASL ETP is designed by issuance.swiss AG and operates under Swiss regulatory approval, simplifying the investment process by eliminating complexities associated with cryptocurrencies [4][5]. - Custody and staking services are provided by Taurus SA, a regulated firm in Switzerland, ensuring the security and operational efficiency of the ADA contributions [5][6]. Broader Implications - The innovative model of CASL is attracting attention from other humanitarian and philanthropic organizations, with plans to replicate this impact-linked ETP model for other causes such as education and climate resilience within the next 6 to 12 months [8][9]. - Cardano, with a market cap of approximately $22 billion and a price of around $0.62, is positioned as a suitable blockchain for mission-critical applications due to its proof-of-stake consensus and environmental efficiency [7].