MSCI, the global index provider, has abruptly introduced new criteria to exclude non-operating companies from its Global Investable Market Indexes (GIMI).

■ Strategy and Metaplanet Among Potential Exclusions... SharpLink Placed on Watch List

According to cryptocurrency-focused media outlet WuBlockchain, MSCI recently designated Strategy (MSTR), a bitcoin treasury company, and Japan's Metaplanet (3350) as potential candidates for index removal in a simulation based on May 2026 data. SharpLink (SBET), an ethereum treasury company, was placed on its watch list.

The final list of companies to be excluded from the index is scheduled to be officially announced on November 11, with the new rules taking full effect after the market close on November 30.

■ Removal from Index if Operating Asset Criteria Are Not Met

Under the new rules, companies that fail to meet the operating asset criteria or fall under four or more of five financial exclusion criteria will be removed from MSCI global indexes. Existing index constituents must fail to meet the criteria for two consecutive fiscal years to be included in the final exclusion list.

■ Temporary Inclusion Restrictions Lifted for Companies Holding Excessive Digital Assets

Meanwhile, MSCI plans to lift the temporary index inclusion restrictions previously applied to companies holding 50% or more of their total assets in digital assets, and to comprehensively evaluate corporate value under its revised new methodology.

[This article was written for informational purposes and does not constitute investment solicitation or recommendation. Responsibility for all investment decisions lies with the investor. AI assistance was partially used.]