Key Takeaways
- • Bitwise released its Q3 2026 Staking Report, covering protocol metrics across leading proof-of-stake networks including NEAR Protocol, Ethereum, Solana, Hyperliquid, Avalanche, and Tempo, with focus on NEAR's intents momentum, confidential execution adoption, and revenue growth.
- • Bitwise launched a NEAR Staking ETP on Deutsche Börse Xetra, targeting approximately 5.5% net annual staking returns and expanding the firm's European suite of index-linked staking products with regulated, efficient exposure to the AI-focused blockchain.
- • NEAR Protocol token surged 7.6% on the announcement date (Wednesday, July 31, 2026), reflecting market response to the new institutional staking vehicle and continued protocol development momentum.
- • The ETP offering represents institutional-grade access to NEAR staking yields, positioning Bitwise to capture growing demand for regulated cryptocurrency exposure among European investors seeking both protocol participation and yield generation.
Summary
Concurrent with the report release, Bitwise launched a NEAR Staking ETP on Deutsche Börse Xetra, expanding the firm's European product suite for index-linked staking exposure. The ETP is designed to stake NEAR tokens held within the fund structure, targeting approximately 5.5% in additional returns net of fees. This product offers European institutional investors regulated, exchange-traded access to NEAR protocol staking yields without requiring direct token custody or staking infrastructure management. The listing positions the product within Bitwise's broader strategy of democratizing institutional-grade cryptocurrency exposure across multiple proof-of-stake networks.
Market response to the announcement was positive, with NEAR Protocol's token rising 7.6% on July 31, 2026, reflecting investor appetite for both the new staking vehicle and underlying protocol developments. The timing aligns with broader institutional adoption of cryptocurrency staking products, driven by demand for yield-generating alternatives in a competitive asset management landscape. The ETP structure provides efficient tax and regulatory treatment for European investors while offering direct exposure to NEAR's ecosystem growth, particularly as the protocol expands its AI-focused applications and intents-based transaction architecture.
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