Ark Invest and 21shares Alter Ethereum ETF Proposal, Exclude Staking Component
In a recent development, Ark Invest and 21shares have revised their proposal for a spot Ethereum exchange-traded fund (ETF), notably excluding the previously included staking options. This change marks a significant departure from their initial filings, which had proposed engaging trusted staking providers to manage a portion of the trust’s assets.
Revised Proposal: Staking Options Omitted
The initial proposal by Ark Invest, led by prominent investor Cathie Wood, and 21shares outlined a plan for the trust to engage in staking, a common practice in blockchain operations like Ethereum. Staking allows participants to earn rewards, typically in the form of cryptocurrency, for validating transactions and supporting the network’s security.
However, the strategic shift away from staking components signals a cautious approach, potentially aiming to align with regulatory perspectives. Notably, Fidelity’s ETH-based ETF was the first to propose including staking in its structure, setting a precedent in the ETF landscape.
Potential Implications and Industry Impact
The decision by Ark Invest and 21shares to exclude staking in their latest filing could have a ripple effect on how other funds design their strategies amidst evolving regulations and market conditions. Bloomberg’s lead ETF analyst, Eric Balchunas, described the adjustment as potentially a “hail mary,” speculating that the move may either be an attempt to comply with SEC comments or to remove a potential point of contention in the SEC’s review process.
Industry Reactions and Outlook
The market is closely monitoring the implications of this revised proposal, particularly its potential impact on the broader adoption of Ethereum ETFs. Some industry experts believe that the exclusion of staking options could make the ETF more palatable to regulators, increasing its chances of approval. Others argue that the removal of staking may limit the ETF’s potential returns, as staking has historically been a significant source of income for Ethereum holders.
As the SEC continues to review and provide feedback on Ethereum ETF proposals, the industry remains in a state of flux. The outcome of Ark Invest and 21shares’ revised proposal will be closely watched for its potential to shape the future of cryptocurrency ETFs.
Divya 
Mehek