The landscape of investment opportunities is widening with the introduction of Ether Futures ETFs in the American market. The much-anticipated launch occurred at the start of October, bringing forward nine new Ether Futures ETFs. Despite the excitement bubbling around the debut, the reception in terms of invested capital was modest compared to expectations.
Ether already enjoys the status of the second-most celebrated digital currency after Bitcoin. The market entry of these Ether-based ETFs could simplify the process for specific investor classes to delve into the cryptocurrency realm.
Influx of Cryptocurrency ETFs
“Financial experts like investment advisors, family offices, and registered advisors are the ones likely to be long-term purchasers of these instruments”, suggests Matt Hougan, Chief Investment Officer of Bitwise. “Although individual traders have access to Ethereum via platforms like Coinbase, professional investors require more traditional avenues,” he added.
Details on Ether Futures ETF Options
The roll-out of Ether Futures ETFs included various products and their associated net expense ratios, namely:
- BitWise Ethereum Strategy ETF (AETH), with a net expense ratio of 0.85%
- Bitwise Bitcoin and Ether Equal Weight Strategy ETF (BTOP), also at 0.85%
- ProShares Ether Strategy ETF (EETH), with a net expense ratio of 0.95%
- ProShares Bitcoin & Ether Equal Weight Strategy ETF (BETE), at 0.95%
- Bitcoin & Ether Market Cap Weight Strategy ETF (BETH), which is 0.95%
- VanEck Ethereum Strategy ETF (EFUT), at a net expense ratio of 0.66%
Bitcoin futures ETFs are already a part of the investment scene, led by ProShares Bitcoin Strategy ETF (BITO) which possesses around $900 million in assets. Since its inception in 2021, its performance has been tracking closely behind spot Bitcoin, even as Bitcoin was peaking in value.
“The Bitcoin futures ETF has performed its role admirably, mirroring the Bitcoin’s movements effectively,” observed Simeon Hyman, ProShares’ investment strategy chief.
SEC’s Stance on Ether Futures and Potential Future Decisions
As Ether futures funds make their entrance, the SEC deliberates on how to approach a spot Bitcoin ETF. The regulator has previously rejected such offerings, but recent judgments indicate their rationale might not be ironclad.
Numerous companies are waiting eagerly to launch their Bitcoin ETFs, with applications pending approval. The SEC, however, has yet to make a final decision. The acceptance of Ether futures products might signal a more open attitude toward spot Bitcoin ETFs.
“The launch of these Ether futures products is a favorable omen that spot cryptocurrency offerings are on the near horizon,” expressed Hougan with optimism.
Distinctive Tax Implications
An interesting aspect of the new funds is VanEck’s ETF’s unique structure as a C-Corp, which alters its tax treatment. According to Kyle DaCruz, director of VanEck’s digital asset product, this structure might result in differing tax obligations, with potentially lower tax rates on distributions.
Revised Strategies in Ether Futures ETFs
The previous week saw a hasty start with Valkyrie’s Ether and Bitcoin Strategy ETF (BTF), which soon reversed its initial plan. The company now expects to finalize this change shortly.
Grayscale’s Next Moves
In a parallel development, Grayscale announced its intention to transform its Ethereum Trust into an ETF, bringing to light its application filing in partnership with the NYSE Arca for the conversion to a spot Ethereum ETF.
Cryptocurrency Pricing Trends
Bitcoin’s spot price surged, reaching levels not seen since the previous summer. Ether also experienced a price hike on the morning of the launch, but it saw a downturn as the day progressed.
