Grayscale is taking a significant step towards diversifying beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum. The company has filed a new S-1 form for a crypto-focused ETF, dubbed the HYPE ETF with the ticker GHYP, which will be based on the HYPE token, an asset of a rapidly expanding DeFi platform called Hyperliquid.

According to the filing, this is a move towards introducing DeFi tokens to the conventional financial markets. Coinbase will act as a custodian, and they will take care of the assets on behalf of the investors. This announcement is coming at a point when the crypto market is active in 2026, and firms are eager to introduce new products.

Source: sec.gov

Grayscale Bets on HYPE Growth

HYPE token enables the Hyperliquid platform, which facilitates on-chain perpetual trading. The platform gained a massive market share, reportedly over 50% of the total value locked in this particular space. The fast execution of trades, along with the high leverage, made this platform stand out.

Grayscale is betting on HYPE’s growth trajectory, which indicates that they see HYPE as a promising candidate to feature in an ETF that will provide traditional investors with exposure to DeFi.

This is not the only company in the space, though. Bitwise and 21Shares are also working on DeFi-based ETFs, which is a sign of the market’s direction. Initially, the focus was on the larger cryptocurrencies, but now it is on the ones supporting services such as lending and trading.

ETFs offer investors a simpler way of accessing the crypto market without having to directly manage their wallets, thus making the crypto market more competitive.

What the HYPE ETF Could Offer

The HYPE ETF is still in its early stages and will need approval before it can go live. This could potentially open doors for DeFi-focused ETFs in traditional markets. Future possibilities for the HYPE ETF could include staking rewards for investors.

For now, the ETF will seek to follow the price of HYPE, providing secure access to this through conventional financial routes. Coinbase’s position as a custodian will provide an added layer of security and trust to investors.

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Grayscale Pushes DeFi Closer to Traditional Finance

The approval process for crypto ETFs may take some time, as regulators are evaluating these products. Nevertheless, this filing represents an important milestone in bringing DeFi one step closer to mainstream finance.

If successful, the HYPE ETF might help generate interest in HYPE and other DeFi tokens, as well as stimulate other companies to consider similar products. One thing is for sure: crypto ETFs are changing rapidly, and DeFi is becoming a bigger part of the crypto world.

This article contains market analysis and price predictions. These are not guarantees. Crypto markets are volatile. Always DYOR. Not financial advice.

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Filed under: Bitcoin - @ March 22, 2026 7:00 am