Grayscale Files Registration for Spot Worldcoin ETF Amid Regulatory Risks

Grayscale Investments has filed a registration statement for a spot Worldcoin ETF, expanding its lineup of cryptocurrency-based exchange-traded funds. The proposed fund would trade on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol GWLD and offer passive exposure to Worldcoin's native token, WLD.

The trust was established on July 10, 2026, with BitGo Bank & Trust as the custodian responsible for safeguarding the WLD tokens. BNY will serve as the administrator and transfer agent. The partnerships highlight efforts to meet stringent regulatory standards for security and operational integrity.

Worldcoin operates a blockchain-based identity verification network using biometric iris-scanning technology, issuing 'proof-of-humanity' credentials. The project has registered millions of users globally and positions WLD as an incentive and utility token within its ecosystem.

The filing outlines notable risks associated with the investment, including regulatory challenges and concentrated token distribution. WLD was trading around $0.375, representing a steep decline of approximately 97% from its all-time high near $11.74 in March 2024.