The recent joint application by Ark Invest and 21Shares for a spot Ethereum exchange-traded fund (ETF) has attracted significant attention in the crypto community. However, a closer analysis of the amended S-1 filing reveals some important limitations and uncertainties surrounding this proposed ETF. In this article, we will delve into the details of the filing, discuss the implications for the crypto market, and examine the likelihood of SEC approval.
The Limitations of Cash Creations and Redemptions
The amended joint application clearly states that financial firms allowed to purchase and redeem ETF shares will only have access to cash creations and redemptions, without involving ether (ETH) through in-kind creations and redemptions. This approach differs from recent approvals of spot Bitcoin ETFs, which relied on cash-based methods. While the reasoning behind the SEC’s insistence on cash-based methods is not explicitly mentioned, it is believed to be a consequence of the challenges faced by participants in handling cryptocurrencies under current U.S. regulations.
Ethereum Staking and Risk of Loss
The filing also sheds light on the ETF issuers’ intention to engage in Ethereum staking, thereby generating potential rewards. Although staking can be profitable, it is important to note that it comes with a risk of loss. However, the final proposal does not guarantee the inclusion of staking. This section of the filing is bracketed and uncertain, suggesting that the SEC may ultimately not approve staking as part of the ETF’s operations.
Despite the limitations and uncertainties in the amended joint application, this latest development can be seen as a positive step towards the approval of a spot Ethereum ETF. It is worth noting that the SEC recently extended deadlines for several other ETH ETFs from major players such as BlackRock, Fidelity, Grayscale, and Invesco Galaxy. While this suggests some degree of progress, it is crucial to acknowledge that the SEC must decide on a spot Ethereum ETF by May 23.
Market expectations regarding the approval of a spot Ethereum ETF are mixed. According to the Polymarket prediction market, there is a 43% chance of approval in May. James Seyffart, an ETF analyst at Bloomberg, has a slightly more optimistic view, with a 60% chance of approval. On the other hand, a member of JP Morgan believes there is a 50% chance, while Standard Chartered Bank expects approval in May, and TD Cowen does not anticipate approval until 2024.
The impact of this recent news on investor sentiment remains unclear. However, Ethereum (ETH) has experienced a slightly higher than average gain of 1.9% over the past 24 hours, outperforming both the overall crypto market, which is up 1.5%, and Bitcoin (BTC), which has seen a 1.3% increase. At present, Ethereum is ranked #2 by market cap, with a market capitalization of $292.25 billion and a 24-hour trading volume of $9.42 billion.
The joint application by Ark Invest and 21Shares for a spot Ethereum ETF presents both opportunities and challenges for the crypto market. While the limitations on cash creations and redemptions and uncertainties surrounding staking raise concerns, the extension of deadlines and the overall progress in the approval process indicate a positive trend. The community eagerly awaits the SEC’s decision on a spot Ethereum ETF by May 23, which will have far-reaching implications for the industry.
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