Crypto Analysts Optimistic about the Imminent Launch of Ethereum ETFs 🚀
Analysts are buzzing with excitement as spot Ethereum ETFs are expected to hit the market in the coming weeks. Notable issuers like Fidelity and Ark 21Shares have made significant changes to their filings, raising hopes for a groundbreaking development in the crypto sphere.
SEC Filings Undergo Amendments, Clearing the Path for Ethereum ETFs
Recently, the Security and Exchange Commission (SEC) requested amendments to the 19b-4 forms filed by several asset managers looking to launch spot Ethereum ETFs. Issuers like Fidelity, ARK 21Shares, Invesco Galaxy, VanEck, and Franklin Templeton swiftly complied with the SEC’s directives through Cboe. These changes included the removal of staking-related language and the insertion of clauses prohibiting staking by any party.
“Neither the Trust or the Fund, nor the Sponsor, nor the Custodian, nor any other person associated with the Trust or Fund will, directly or indirectly, engage in action where any portion of the Fund’s ETH becomes subject to the Ethereum proof-of-stake validation or is used to earn additional ETH or generate income or other earnings,” the amended documents stated.
Vaneck’s proposed spot Ethereum ETF, with ticker ETHV, was featured on the Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation’s (DTCC) website, marking a positive step in the right direction. However, despite these promising developments, SEC approval is still hanging in the balance.
Eager to learn more about Ethereum ETFs? Check out our in-depth guide: What It Is and How It Works
“Need to actually see SEC approval orders on all the 19b-4s and then we need to see S-1 approvals,” James Seyffart, ETF analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence, commented on the situation.
The 19b-4 filings are pivotal as they propose rule changes necessary for listing new products on stock exchanges, including spot Bitcoin or Ethereum ETFs. In tandem, S-1 registration forms offer intricate details about the new securities being introduced to the public, encompassing the fund’s structure, management setup, and investment tactics. Issuers must secure approvals for both forms to inaugurate ETFs into the market officially.
Seyffart expressed cautious optimism, hinting at a imminent launch of Ethereum ETFs, although the approval odds remain at a steady 75%. The future approval of spot Ethereum ETFs is perceived as a bullish sign for the broader crypto space, yet the absence of staking options might deter investors seeking additional income from staking rewards.
- Favorable outcomes from the US presidential election could sway the decision towards approving spot Ethereum ETFs
Furthermore, investors accustomed to buying, holding, and staking ETH for rewards may find spot Ethereum ETFs lacking in comparison. Without staking features, these ETFs solely offer exposure to ETH prices, missing out on the additional benefits provided by staking.
A recent report highlighted that asset managers CoinShares and Valkyrie opted out of applying for spot Ethereum ETFs due to the absence of staking incentives, suggesting a lack of appeal for investors. Political factors may also influence the decision-making process surrounding the approval of spot Ethereum ETFs, particularly with the upcoming US presidential election looming in November.
Want to know more about investing in Ethereum ETFs? Dive into our detailed guide for insights!
Emilie Choi, President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Coinbase, sensed a sudden shift in the SEC’s approach, hinting at a potential change in stance post the repeal of SAB 121 and the administration’s eagerness to address the evolving market dynamics.
“And the sense is that the tone from the SEC has just changed literally overnight based on some feedback, it must have gotten from just seeing the SAB 121 repeal and probably the administration seeing sensing some panic, I guess,” Choi mentioned during the JPMorgan Technology, Media & Communications Conference 2024.