BlackRock Forms New Trust Amid Early Uptake of Staking-Focused Ethereum ETFs

Core Insights - BlackRock has registered a new Delaware statutory trust, the iShares Staked Ethereum Trust ETF, indicating a strategic move into the Ethereum staking market [1] - The registration is part of a broader trend as Ethereum staking ETFs begin trading in the U.S., with other products like the REX Osprey ETH + Staking ETF already launched [3] - Staking in Ethereum involves locking up assets for network validation, which introduces unique risks and regulatory considerations for issuers [6] Group 1: BlackRock's New Trust - BlackRock's iShares Staked Ethereum Trust ETF was formed on November 19, with the registration being a common step for ETF issuers in the crypto space [1] - The next step typically involves filing a registration statement with the SEC, although this does not indicate an imminent filing [2] Group 2: Market Context - The launch of the REX Osprey ETH + Staking ETF in late September marked the first combined spot and staking-enabled Ethereum ETF in the U.S. [3] - Grayscale also became the first U.S. issuer to incorporate staking into an exchange-listed Ethereum product in October, following regulatory approvals [3] Group 3: Staking Dynamics - The REX-Osprey ETH + Staking ETF reported approximately $2.4 million in assets as of mid-November, indicating that dedicated staking-focused Ethereum ETFs are still relatively small [4] - BlackRock's proposed changes for its iShares Ethereum Trust (ETHA) would allow the trust to receive staking rewards, which may be treated as income [5] - Staking introduces operational and custody risks that differ from simple asset holding, requiring issuers to detail various aspects of validator selection and liquidity management [6]