- The SEC is reviewing a rule change to allow BlackRock’s Ethereum ETF to include staking.
- Other firms like 21Shares and Grayscale have filed similar proposals, while Rex-Osprey already launched a staked crypto ETF.
- The regulatory tone has softened under the Trump administration, and the SEC also approved in-kind redemptions for crypto ETPs on Tuesday.
So, here we go again. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is now officially toying with the idea of letting BlackRock — yeah, that BlackRock — add Ethereum staking to its ETF lineup. The move, if approved, would allow staking in the iShares Ethereum Trust, BlackRock’s ETF that tracks spot ETH. Big stuff, maybe.
In a filing dropped Tuesday, the SEC said it’s opening the floor for public comment on a proposed rule change — standard protocol when it comes to ETF tweaks like this. Nasdaq filed the actual request earlier this month. And they’re not alone: 21Shares, Grayscale… everyone’s angling to get staking into their crypto funds. Can’t really blame them, given the yield potential and all.
Back in May, the SEC’s own Division of Corporation Finance said that some blockchain staking doesn’t exactly count as offering securities. That got folks buzzing — maybe staking in ETFs is finally on the table?
Everyone’s Trying It — Some Already Did
Of course, not everyone’s waiting around for the SEC to make up its mind. Rex-Osprey kinda went rogue and launched what it calls the “first-ever staked crypto ETF in the U.S.” on July 2. Different approach. They sidestepped the traditional route, and somehow made it work — for now, at least.
Meanwhile, the SEC is busy dragging its heels on a bunch of other crypto ETF decisions. Just this week, they pushed the verdict on Grayscale’s proposed Litecoin ETF all the way to October 10. Classic move. Still, the general vibe has shifted a bit under the Trump administration. Since January, crypto ETF proposals seem to be getting a warmer welcome — probably not a coincidence.
A Few Quiet Wins Behind the Curtain
Later on Tuesday, in a less headline-grabbing moment, the SEC quietly approved in-kind creations and redemptions for crypto ETPs. Basically, that means authorized participants can now handle these transactions with the actual crypto assets, not just cash. It’s a technical thing, but one that could help ETFs work a lot smoother behind the scenes.
So, is staking in ETFs finally about to be a real thing? No one’s sure. But between BlackRock’s push, regulatory winks, and rival firms already moving ahead, the pressure’s definitely on.
