Nasdaq and CME Relaunch Benchmark Crypto Index

Nasdaq Inc. and CME Group Inc. have announced the relaunch of the Nasdaq CME Crypto Index (NCI™) on January 8, 2026, enhancing their strategic partnership.

The relaunch provides institutional investors a reliable benchmark for the digital asset market, signifying increased maturity and transparency, potentially influencing crypto investments.

Nasdaq CME Crypto Index Set to Strengthen Market Infrastructure

Nasdaq and CME Group announced the relaunch of the Nasdaq CME Crypto Index (NCI™) on January 8, 2026. The collaboration is anticipated to provide a reliable benchmark for institutions investing in digital assets. “We’re pleased to announce that the Nasdaq Crypto Index will soon become the Nasdaq CME Crypto™ Index,” an official notice from Nasdaq stated. The rebranding signifies a deeper partnership between two major financial entities known for their market-leading infrastructure.

The index’s relaunch is set to attract more institutional participation in the digital asset sector. This is part of a broader trend where traditional finance meets cryptocurrency, emphasizing clear standards and heightened security measures for institutional investors.

Market reactions have acknowledged the index’s potential to impact investment trends positively. Industry analysts view this development as a step towards reinforcing institutional credibility and increasing crypto’s market maturity. While direct stakeholders in BTC and ETH were cautious, sentiment generally leaned optimistic.

Bitcoin Valued at Over $90,000 as Crypto Index Relaunches

Did you know? This collaboration continues nearly two decades of strategy, dating back to 2003, when Nasdaq first introduced technology indexes, showcasing its evolving role in financial benchmarks.

Bitcoin (BTC) is currently valued at $90,590.04 with a market cap of $1.81 trillion, dominating 58.45% of the market, according to CoinMarketCap. Despite recent challenges, BTC observed a minor positive shift of 0.17% in the past day, following a broader downward trend.

The Coincu research team suggests the joint venture between Nasdaq and CME could catalyze new crypto-related financial products for institutions. With historical trends showing increasing interest in digital assets, this partnership may lead to innovative benchmarks, potentially influencing global financial markets.