Sui is a high-performance blockchain that’s quickly turning heads in the crypto market. Launched in May 2023 by former Meta engineers, Sui is a high-performance Layer-1 blockchain designed for speed, scalability, and smooth user experiences. Think of it as a next-gen network that powers everything from DeFi apps to NFTs, and does it with lightning-fast transaction speeds and low fees.
Now, Sui is making its way into traditional finance.
On May 23, 2025, Nasdaq filed a request with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to list the 21Shares Sui ETF. This move marks the beginning of the SEC’s review process for what could become the first spot Sui ETF in the United States, afte the successful launch of spot Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs in 2024. Another firm, Canary Capital, submitted a similar application weeks earlier. If approved, these funds would give regular investors a new way to invest in the Sui ecosystem, without needing crypto wallets or exchanges.
In this guide, you’ll learn what a Sui ETF is, why it matters, and when it could go live.
What Is a Spot Sui ETF?
An ETF, or Exchange-Traded Fund, is a type of investment fund that you can buy and sell like a stock. It tracks the price of an asset, or a group of assets, so you can invest without owning the asset directly.
How does an ETF work? | Source: TrueData.inA spot Sui ETF is an exchange-traded fund that directly holds SUI tokens, allowing you to gain exposure to the Sui blockchain without needing to buy or manage crypto yourself.
Like other ETFs, it trades on traditional stock exchanges and mirrors the real-time price of its underlying asset, in this case, SUI, the native token of the Sui network. You can invest in it through a regular brokerage account, just like buying shares of Apple or Google.
This makes crypto investing simple. No need to set up a Sui wallet, manage private keys, or navigate complex DeFi platforms. The fund’s provider, such as 21Shares or Canary Capital, handles custody, security, and regulatory compliance.
Spot ETFs are especially valuable because they hold the actual token, unlike futures ETFs that track derivatives. If approved, a U.S.-listed spot Sui ETF could bring new visibility and trust to the Sui ecosystem, unlock institutional investment, and increase demand for the SUI token.
Why a Spot Sui ETF Matters
A Sui ETF is more than just another crypto investment product. It’s a gateway to one of the fastest-growing and most innovative blockchains in the U.S. market.
Sui is a homegrown Layer-1 network built by former Meta engineers. Since it launched in May 2023, it delivers blazing-fast performance with up to 297,000 transactions per second (TPS) and near-zero gas fees. Its object-based architecture sets it apart from Ethereum and Solana, making it a top choice for developers building DeFi protocols, NFT platforms, and on-chain games.
As of May 2025, Sui boasts a total value locked (TVL) of over $1.7 billion and over 134 million total active accounts. The ecosystem is growing fast, featuring standout projects like Cetus, a top DEX; SuiNS, for on-chain identities; and Turbos Finance, a leading decentralized trading platform. Popular memecoins such as SUIA, LOFI, and sudeng have also gained strong traction, driving user activity and community engagement.
Sui network statistics | Source: Sui.ioAn ETF gives you regulated access to SUI without dealing with wallets, gas, or private keys. You can buy and sell shares from your regular brokerage account, just like stocks. This ease of use opens the door for both retail and institutional investors, expanding access to Sui’s growing ecosystem.
The ETF could also supercharge liquidity and boost legitimacy. An SEC-approved ETF signals trust, transparency, and institutional-grade standards. We’ve already seen what happens when crypto gets that stamp of approval, after spot Bitcoin ETFs launched in early 2024, over $95 billion flowed into the market. Ethereum ETFs followed, pulling in $10 billion in assets under management (AUM).
Momentum is already building for Sui. In March 2025, World Liberty Financial (WLFI), a Trump-affiliated DeFi protocol, announced it had added SUI to its strategic token reserve. WLFI’s portfolio includes Bitcoin, Ethereum, Chainlink, and TRON. Adding SUI places it among elite assets. The group also hinted at future product development on the Sui network. SUI’s price jumped over 10% on the news, outperforming every other asset in the CoinDesk 20 Index that day.
Even more, Sui is emerging in national policy conversations. Reports have linked SUI to potential U.S. crypto reserve asset status, alongside Cardano (ADA). With filings from 21Shares and Canary Capital now under SEC review, a Sui ETF could position the network as a core part of America’s blockchain future.
In short, a Sui ETF doesn’t just help investors. It moves Sui closer to mainstream adoption, bridging crypto innovation with traditional finance, and putting SUI in portfolios across the globe.
Sui ETF Filings: Where Things Stand Now (May 2025)
Two major asset managers, 21Shares and Canary Capital, are leading the charge to bring the first spot Sui ETF to the U.S. market.
21Shares’ Application
21 Shares' Sui ETF application | Source: SEC.govOn April 30, 2025, 21Shares submitted an S-1 registration statement to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), outlining its plan to launch a spot Sui ETF. Just a few weeks later, on May 23, Nasdaq followed up with a Form 19b-4, kicking off the SEC’s official review process. The ETF would track the price of SUI and use Coinbase Custody and BitGo as custodians.
Canary Capital’s Filing
Canary Sui ETF application | Source: SEC.govCanary Capital was actually first to act. The firm filed its own S-1 registration on March 17, 2025, marking the earliest attempt to bring a U.S.-based Sui ETF to life. This move reflects growing institutional confidence in Sui as a scalable, U.S.-born blockchain network with long-term potential.
When Could a Spot Sui ETF Launch?
It all comes down to the SEC’s timeline. Once a 19b-4 is filed, the SEC has 45 days to respond, but it can extend the review multiple times. The maximum review period is 240 days. For 21Shares, that puts the final deadline at January 18, 2026.
What Could Delay or Accelerate Approval?
Several key factors could affect how quickly a Sui ETF gets the green light:
• Regulatory Climate: The SEC’s changing stance on crypto ETFs matters. While spot Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs were approved in 2024, each new asset gets evaluated on its own merits.
• Network Readiness: The SEC will assess Sui’s adoption rate, market cap, liquidity, and technical robustness to determine if it’s fit for an ETF.
• Custody and Security: The ETF’s custodians, like Coinbase and BitGo, must meet the SEC’s standards for secure digital asset storage.
If you're planning to invest, keep an eye on official SEC updates and announcements from both 21Shares and Canary Capital. The countdown is on.
How to Prepare for the Sui ETF Launch
If you're interested in the upcoming Sui ETF, it’s important to stay informed and prepared. Start by following official updates from 21Shares and Canary Capital, and keep an eye on trusted crypto news outlets and resources like BingX Academy. Take time to understand how ETFs work and how they differ from directly buying and holding cryptocurrencies.
Think about how a Sui ETF would fit into your overall investment strategy. Consider your risk tolerance, time horizon, and financial goals. It’s also a good idea to speak with a financial advisor to fully understand the potential risks and benefits.
What Are the Other Ways to Invest in Sui (SUI)?
While the Sui ETF is still under SEC review, you don’t have to wait to get involved. Here are three effective and accessible ways to invest in SUI today:
1. Buy or Trade SUI on BingX
The easiest and most accessible way to invest in Sui right now is through BingX, a trusted global crypto exchange.
Here’s how to get started:
• Create an Account: Sign up on BingX.com and complete identity verification (KYC) for full trading access.
• Deposit Funds: Add USDT or another supported cryptocurrency to your Spot Wallet. You can deposit crypto directly or purchase USDT using a credit card or P2P trading.
• Search for SUI: Navigate to the Spot Trading section. In the search bar, type "SUI" to find trading pairs like SUI/USDT.
• Place an Order: Choose your preferred order type, Market or Limit, enter the amount, and click Buy SUI.
• Manage Your Tokens: Once purchased, your SUI tokens will appear in your Spot Wallet. You can hold, trade, or transfer them as needed.
With BingX, you get real-time trading, low fees, and a secure platform to start participating in the Sui ecosystem right away.
2. Invest Through the Grayscale Sui Trust
Grayscale Sui Trust NAV per share | Source: GrayscaleFor accredited investors, the Grayscale Sui Trust offers another route to gain exposure to SUI. The trust is structured as a private investment vehicle that holds SUI tokens and reflects their market value.
As of late May 2025, the trust’s Net Asset Value (NAV) per share is $54.38. It manages over $11.46 million in assets, providing a professionally managed way to invest in Sui without dealing directly with the token or blockchain.
This option is ideal if you're looking for passive exposure within a regulated investment structure.
3. Trade the VanEck Sui ETN in Europe
VanEck Sui ETC performance history | Source: VanEckIf you’re based in Europe, you can invest in Sui through the VanEck Sui ETN (VSUI). This exchange-traded note is 100% backed by SUI tokens and trades on regulated European stock exchanges. As of May 27, 2025, the VanEck Sui ETN has a NAV of $15.75, manages $147.84 million in assets, and carries a total expense ratio of 1.50%.
The ETN tracks the MarketVector™ Sui VWAP Close Index (MVSUIV) and is securely custodied by regulated crypto custodians. It’s ideal for European investors seeking a regulated way to invest in Sui without direct wallet management.
Until a U.S.-approved Sui ETF hits the market, these three options offer accessible and diversified paths to invest in one of the most advanced blockchains in crypto. Whether you're a retail trader or an institutional investor, there’s a Sui investment strategy that fits your needs today.
Final Thoughts
The proposed Sui ETFs by 21Shares and Canary Capital signify a growing interest in integrating cryptocurrencies into traditional financial instruments. If approved, these ETFs could provide investors with regulated and simplified access to the Sui blockchain's native token, SUI.
The approval of a Sui ETF would not only enhance the token's legitimacy but also potentially increase its liquidity and adoption. As the crypto market continues to evolve, staying informed and prepared will position you to take advantage of new investment opportunities as they arise.