ZEC Gains as Grayscale Files for First U.S. Bittensor ETF

Generated by AI AgentCoinSageReviewed byAInvest News Editorial Team
Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 6:59 am ET2min read
Aime RobotAime Summary

- Grayscale filed to convert its Bittensor Trust into a spot ETF (GTAO) for regulated exposure to ZEC, aiming to institutionalize blockchain-based AI infrastructure.

- ZEC surged over 20% post-filing as traders anticipate $300 price targets, driven by reduced token issuance post-halving and growing institutional interest.

- The ETF would enable traditional investors to access Bittensor’s decentralized AI network via NYSE Arca, with

and BNY Mellon handling custody and transfers.

- Regulatory approval remains uncertain amid SEC scrutiny of crypto custody and market structure, despite Grayscale’s prior

ETF success.

- Analysts estimate potential $179B capital inflows into decentralized AI assets if approved, highlighting AI-blockchain integration as a transformative industry shift.

  • Grayscale filed to convert its Trust into a spot ETF (GTAO) for regulated exposure .
  • The ETF would provide access to Bittensor's decentralized AI ecosystem without direct token custody .
  • Regulatory approval remains uncertain amid SEC scrutiny of crypto custody and market structure .
  • ZEC prices surged above $220 post-filing with traders targeting $300 .

Bittensor (ZEC) has surged following Grayscale's landmark filing to create the first U.S. spot ETF for the token. The proposed Grayscale Bittensor Trust ETF (GTAO) would trade on NYSE Arca and offer investors

. This move signals growing institutional interest in blockchain-based AI infrastructure after ZEC recently underwent a halving that cut daily issuance by 50% . Market participants now watch whether regulators will approve this novel product.

What Is Driving ZEC Price Action?

ZEC jumped over 20% immediately after Grayscale's ETF announcement

. The filing fueled optimism that . Traders now eye the $300 resistance level amid broader crypto market gains . Technical analysts note ZEC must hold above $220 to maintain bullish momentum .

Supply dynamics create additional support after the recent halving reduced ZEC issuance

. Scarcity concerns grew as Bittensor's token-based system incentivizes computational contributions to its AI network . The halving cut daily production abruptly during rising institutional interest . Still, volatility persists as regulatory uncertainty lingers.

How Could the Bittensor ETF Transform Institutional Adoption?

The ETF would enable exposure through traditional brokerage accounts instead of crypto wallets

. Grayscale plans direct ZEC holdings with Coinbase as custodian and BNY Mellon as transfer agent . This infrastructure mirrors their ETF and targets institutions seeking AI-crypto convergence. Nearly all major investors now recognize digital assets' long-term value according to industry surveys .

Approval could catalyze over $179 billion in capital inflows into decentralized AI assets. BlackRock and Coinbase view AI-blockchain integration as a fundamental technological shift not captured by traditional metrics

. The ETF structure might include staking rewards depending on regulatory clearance. Such developments would dramatically expand ZEC's investor base beyond crypto natives.

What Regulatory Hurdles Could Delay ETF Approval?

The SEC must evaluate market structure, custody solutions, and governance risks. Recent generic listing standards accelerated crypto product development but scrutiny persists

. Grayscale's experience with Bitcoin ETFs provides an advantage yet AI-native tokens remain untested . Approval timelines stay uncertain despite filing momentum .

Coinbase and BitGo's involvement as custodians might ease security concerns

. The SEC continues examining potential market manipulation and custody vulnerabilities industry-wide . Failure to meet these standards could delay or derail the listing . Investors should watch for comments during the SEC's review period this quarter.