Nasdaq Invests $100M in Payward at $21B Valuation
On September 10, Nasdaq announced a strategic investment of $100 million into Payward, the parent company of Kraken crypto exchange. The deal values Payward at $21 billion and includes plans to collaborate on launching the Equity Token (NET) framework by Q2 2027. The partnership aims to advance tokenized equities within existing regulatory frameworks while improving global trading infrastructure. Nasdaq will also provide surveillance technology across Payward’s platforms, including crypto, futures, options, and tokenized assets, enhancing market integrity and investor confidence. This move aligns with Kraken's strategy to expand beyond cryptocurrency into a multi-asset exchange. The investment follows recent developments in the fintech sector, such as AMC CEO Adam Aron criticizing Robinhood’s tokenization efforts.
Tickers: $NDAQ
Topics: blockchain infrastructure crypto exchange fintech tokenization of equities