BlackRock Plans to Launch Ethereum ETF
BlackRock, a major asset management firm, has revealed its intention to introduce an exchange-traded fund (ETF) for Ethereum. The company filed a proposal with the Nasdaq stock exchange for an “iShares Ethereum Trust” that would enable investors to access Ethereum’s price movements through a conventional stock exchange.
The announcement led to a 10 percent surge in Ethereum’s price, surpassing $2,000, a level not seen since July. According to CoinGecko, ETH has risen by over 30% in the past month and 85% from a year ago.
BlackRock’s move comes after registering an Ethereum trust in Delaware, indicating a potential application for regulatory approval of an ETF. This development could open doors for significant new investment in Ethereum.
The proposed fund would trade under the ticker “ETH” and closely track the trust’s Ethereum holdings, with BlackRock’s iShares serving as the sponsor.
Potential Regulatory Hurdles
While it is unclear when BlackRock will seek SEC approval for the ETF, previous rejections of spot Bitcoin ETFs due to manipulation concerns highlight potential obstacles. However, the recent approval of U.S. Bitcoin futures ETFs and Ethereum futures ETFs suggests progress towards acceptance of funds holding digital assets.
Hot Take: BlackRock’s Entry Into Ethereum ETF Market
BlackRock’s plans to launch an Ethereum ETF signal growing mainstream interest in cryptocurrencies and could pave the way for significant investment in Ethereum. The move reflects the increasing institutional adoption of digital assets and may provide retail investors with easier access to the cryptocurrency market.