- The SEC has acknowledged filings for Fidelity and Franklin spot Ethereum ETFs with staking.
- If approved, these ETFs will let investors earn staking rewards while holding Ethereum shares.
- This move signals growing institutional interest in ETH & regulated crypto investment options.
Fidelity and Franklin Templeton are once again making a bold move in the crypto space. Their latest filings propose spot Ethereum ETFs with staking, a feature that could reshape how investors earn yields on digital assets. On March 13, 2025, the SEC acknowledged these filings, marking the first step in its formal review process. This comes at a time when regulatory attitudes toward crypto are shifting, and investors are watching closely. Could this be the moment staking becomes a mainstream financial product?
Fidelity’s proposal seeks to incorporate staking into its spot Ethereum ETF. Staking involves locking up ETH to secure the network and validate transactions in exchange for rewards. Initially, Fidelity included staking in its March 2024 filing. However, regulatory challenges led to the ETF’s launch in July 2024 without the staking feature. With the current administration’s pro-crypto stance, Fidelity is revisiting its staking plans.
Similarly, Franklin Templeton has filed for a spot Ethereum ETF that includes staking. The SEC’s acknowledgment of these filings begins the review process. This process could lead to the approval of ETFs offering staking benefits to investors.
The SEC has also delayed its decision on Cboe BZX Exchange’s request to list options tied to Fidelity’s Ethereum Fund. The new deadline for approval or disapproval is May 14, 2025. This postponement reflects the SEC’s cautious approach to cryptocurrency-related financial products.
Related: SEC Receives More XRP ETF Filings as Franklin Templeton Joins
The SEC’s acknowledgment of these filings indicates a shift toward accepting cryptocurrency investment products. This shift aligns with the current administration’s pro-crypto policies. The agency is also seeking public comments on various cryptocurrency ETF proposals. This move suggests a more open regulatory environment for digital assets.
The inclusion of staking in the ETF proposals is noteworthy. Integrating staking into ETFs could provide investors with additional income streams. It also highlights the evolving nature of cryptocurrency investments.
The SEC’s review process will determine the future of these ETF proposals. Approval could lead to increased mainstream adoption of Ethereum and other cryptocurrencies. It could also pave the way for more innovative financial products in the digital asset space.
