Sonic Labs has introduced a governance proposal seeking community approval for a $150 million token issuance to fund its ambitious entry into the U.S. capital markets. Published on August 20, 2025, the multi-phase plan includes establishing Sonic USA LLC, launching a U.S.-listed ETF for regulated exposure to Sonic's ecosystem, and pursuing a NASDAQ Private Investment in Public Equity (PIPE) transaction.
The proposal outlines that BitGo will handle custody for financial products, while Sonic USA will focus on institutional partnerships, business development, and regulatory compliance from a New York office. The initiative aims to deepen Sonic's integration with traditional finance by attracting strategic investors and increasing institutional adoption. A governance vote will determine whether the project proceeds, with outcomes potentially accelerating institutional involvement or forcing a strategy reconsideration.
Community reactions are mixed: supporters highlight enhanced liquidity and long-term positioning, while critics worry about token dilution from the massive issuance and U.S. regulatory uncertainties. The plan also includes mechanisms to increase token burn rates, strengthening S's deflationary structure.