21Shares Responds to FCA Consultation on Retail Access to Crypto ETNs, Warns Against Overly Restrictive Framework

Core Viewpoint - 21Shares supports the FCA's proposal to lift the ban on cETNs for retail clients but calls for a more inclusive and innovation-friendly regulatory framework that aligns with international best practices [2][6]. Group 1: Regulatory Concerns - The proposed framework is seen as overly restrictive, limiting retail access to cETNs only listed on UK RIEs and ignoring equivalent products on overseas regulated venues [6]. - There is a concentration risk as the framework may centralize power with the London Stock Exchange, which currently only admits Bitcoin and Ethereum, potentially pushing retail investors towards unregulated alternatives [6]. - 21Shares argues against classifying cETNs as Restricted Mass Market Investments (RMMIs), as they already meet robust listing and disclosure standards, and such classification could reduce liquidity and hamper innovation [6]. Group 2: Recommendations - 21Shares recommends recognizing regulated cETNs from overseas exchanges to enhance investor choice [6]. - The company advocates for a transparent eligibility framework for a broader range of cryptoassets to be used as underlyings for cETNs [6]. - It is suggested that cETNs should be treated as Readily Realisable Securities (RRS) rather than RMMIs to promote better market conditions [6]. Group 3: Company Background - 21Shares is a leading provider of cryptocurrency exchange-traded products, offering the largest suite of crypto ETPs in the market [4]. - The company aims to bridge the gap between traditional finance and decentralized finance, having launched the world's first physically-backed crypto ETP in 2018 [4]. - Backed by a specialized research team and deep capital markets expertise, 21Shares focuses on delivering innovative and cost-efficient investment solutions [4].