## MSCI May Remove Crypto Companies: $15 Billion Risk to the Bitcoin Market

As Bitcoin trades around $91.89K, a silent but alarming threat is approaching from global index providers. Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) is considering a move that could trigger massive capital outflows from crypto-related companies, estimated at $10-15 billion.

### Why Is MSCI Making This Proposal?

In October, MSCI began consulting on a controversial decision: whether companies with a majority of their assets in cryptocurrencies should continue to be included in mainstream market indices. The rationale behind this move stems from the unique nature of the crypto market—these assets are highly volatile and have a risk profile entirely different from traditional tech or financial firms.

The final decision will be announced on January 15, 2026, and if approved, the changes will take effect from February of that year. This is not a minor adjustment—it will reshape the face of the crypto market.

### The Specific Numbers Behind the Threat

These concerns are not hypothetical but based on concrete data. Analysis from the Bitcoin for Corporations initiative indicates that 39 publicly listed companies with a total market cap of $113 billion are at risk. What would happen if these companies are removed from MSCI indices?

**Selling Pressure Mechanism:**
- ETFs and mutual funds tracking MSCI indices will be forced to sell automatically to reflect the new composition
- This creates a wave of forced selling targeting a specific segment simultaneously
- The psychological impact could spread across the entire crypto market, causing panic beyond the direct value

To understand better, JPMorgan warns that removing just one company—MicroStrategy—could lead to a capital outflow of $2.8 billion.

### Which Companies Are Most at Risk?

Businesses with most of their value tied to digital assets will be most affected. MicroStrategy, Coinbase, and Bitcoin mining firms have long been on the list of 39 potentially risky companies. These firms are currently held by thousands of investment funds in ETF forms tracking the index.

### How the Market Views This Risk

Even before the official decision is announced, uncertainty has created a new layer of legal and organizational risk for investors. Shares of these companies may experience increased volatility as January 15, 2026 approaches. Whether long-term or short-term, the strategy of holding crypto through publicly listed companies now must factor in this organizational risk.

### Indirect Impact on Bitcoin

A large sell-off of stocks held by Bitcoin-owning companies could generate broader negative sentiment in the crypto market. When investors are forced to sell shares, the pressure could extend to Bitcoin’s price and other digital assets.

### Could the Decision Be Reversed?

The process is still in the consultation phase, so feedback from the industry and financial organizations could influence the final outcome. However, if the decision is made, future changes could potentially restore these companies—though this is far from certain.

### Practical Steps for Investors

**First**, evaluate your portfolio to determine your direct exposure to any of these 39 companies. Understand that their stocks could face significant volatility in the coming year.

**Second**, recognize that this event reflects ongoing challenges in integrating cryptocurrencies into the global financial system. A major sell-off could create buying opportunities for long-term believers during periods of fear.

### Long-Term Significance of This Review

This proposed removal is not just a financial issue; it’s a stress test for crypto integration. It raises a fundamental question: will digital assets be seamlessly integrated into existing frameworks or continue to be segmented?

While the immediate threat appears negative, overcoming this challenge could ultimately lead to clearer regulations and a more mature market structure. MSCI’s decision in early 2026 will send a strong signal of institutional confidence and shape capital flows in the coming years.