30.07.2025 00:27

BlackRock's application to permit staking within its leading Ethereum exchange-traded fund (ETF) has received formal acknowledgment from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). While this doesn't guarantee approval, it represents significant progress toward enabling investors to participate in Ethereum's staking mechanism through this popular investment vehicle.

The SEC's acknowledgment confirms receipt of amendments submitted by BlackRock and Nasdaq. Standard procedure usually includes a subsequent public comment period, allowing various stakeholders to voice their opinions and concerns before a final decision is reached. This crucial step underscores the seriousness of the SEC's consideration of the proposed changes to the iShares Ethereum Trust (ETHA).

The proposed rule change (19b-4) would fundamentally alter ETHA, granting investors the ability to stake their Ethereum holdings. Importantly, any resulting staking rewards would be treated as income distributed to the fund. This innovative approach could dramatically increase ETHA's attractiveness to investors seeking higher returns. Already a market leader, ETHA, launched less than a year ago, rapidly surpassed the $10 billion in assets under management (AUM) milestone, making it one of the fastest-growing ETFs in the market.

The fund’s impressive growth trajectory is undeniable. Since July 2nd, when it experienced a minor outflow of $46.9 million, ETHA has seen an astonishing influx of nearly $4 billion in net inflows, demonstrating significant investor confidence. This surge in investment has significantly bolstered the underlying Ethereum price, which has experienced a remarkable 50% increase in the last month alone. Further emphasizing this upward trend, Ethereum’s price has soared over 150% since its April low, currently nearing the $4,000 mark. This positive momentum suggests a strong market response to the potential for staking within the ETF.