EL7.AI
CryptoUpdated×4•Originally published 26 May 2026•Updated 27 May 2026•
2 min read

SharpLink (SBET) and Forward Confirmed for Russell 2000 Index Inclusion

Key Facts

1SharpLink and Forward have been selected to join the Russell U.S. indexes, potentially attracting inflows from index-tracking funds.
2Approximately $12.2 trillion in investor assets are benchmarked to the Russell U.S. indexes according to recent data.
3SharpLink, backed by Joe Lubin, has seen its stock tank 95% from its peak over the past year.

In a move reflecting the growing institutional recognition of crypto-focused firms, SharpLink (trading as SBET) and Forward have been confirmed for inclusion in the Russell 2000 index. According to reports, this inclusion is expected to attract significant capital inflows from index-tracking funds, as recent data shows approximately $12.2 trillion in investor assets are benchmarked to these indexes. However, the milestone comes amid a challenging period for Joe Lubin-backed SharpLink, which has seen its stock price plummet 95% from its peak over the past year.

The annual Russell index reconstitution is a pivotal market event that enhances liquidity and legitimacy for included firms, particularly within the digital finance sector. Compared to industry giants like MicroStrategy, the inclusion of smaller treasury management firms like SBET provides them with direct exposure to passive investment vehicles. Per market data, inclusion in the Russell 2000 typically triggers an increase in daily trading volume as fund managers rebalance their portfolios to match the new index weightings.

Looking ahead at the economic calendar, the release of the FOMC Minutes on May 20 serves as a major catalyst that could impact risk appetite across the tech and crypto sectors. Additionally, upcoming speeches from Fed officials, including Vice Chair Barr, will be critical in shaping broader market sentiment prior to the index implementation.

Latest Updates · 2

  1. Notable·

    Update: The company's inclusion has been expanded to the broader Russell 3000 index, with the official effective date confirmed for after the market close on June 29. This specific timeline is expected to intensify institutional trading activity as the final index rebalancing window approaches.

  2. Notable·

    Update: It has been confirmed that the inclusion for Sharplink and Forward Industries will extend to the broader Russell 3000 index, with the official implementation scheduled for the end of June. This timeline provides traders with a specific window to monitor anticipated liquidity inflows as institutional funds begin rebalancing their positions.