Bloomberg Analyst Eric Balchunas Reveals Launch Date for Approved Ethereum (ETH) ETFs

• BlackRock has updated its spot Ethereum (ETH) exchange-traded fund (ETF) application, revealing critical details about the proposed product.
• This update comes shortly after the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) approved several ether ETFs for listing in the U.S., creating a positive sentiment in the broader cryptocurrency market.
• Bloomberg analyst Eric Balchunas commented on the development, describing the updated S-1 form as a “good sign” and suggesting that a launch by the end of June is a “legal possibility.”

BlackRock updates its Ethereum ETF application, signaling a potential launch by June 2024. Learn about the key details and market implications.

BlackRock Updates Ethereum ETF Application; Analyst Predicts June Launch

Recently filed updated S-1 form reveals that a ‘Seed Capital Investor’ has purchased 400,000 shares of the ETF, marking a significant step towards its launch. The amended document states that on May 21, 2024, the Seed Capital Investor, an affiliate of BlackRock’s sponsor, bought the initial shares at $25 each, with a total net asset value of $10 million.

This initial investment is a strong indicator of confidence in the ETF, which will trade under the symbol “ETHA” following regulatory approval. BlackRock’s updated application clarifies that the assets held in the ETF can be used in cash or Ethereum, offering flexibility to investors.

Market Reactions and Analyst Insights

Bloomberg analyst Eric Balchunas described the updated S-1 form as a “good sign,” suggesting that a launch by the end of June is a “legal possibility.” This update follows the SEC’s recent approval of several ether ETFs for listing in the U.S., which has created a positive sentiment in the broader cryptocurrency market.

BlackRock’s success with its Bitcoin ETF, iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), sets a promising precedent for its Ethereum counterpart. As of Tuesday, IBIT has become the world’s largest publicly traded Bitcoin fund, surpassing Grayscale, with approximately $20 billion in assets under management. Since its launch in January, IBIT has attracted significant investments from major state pension funds, with net inflows exceeding $16 billion.

Conclusion

The updated application for BlackRock’s Ethereum ETF marks a significant milestone in the cryptocurrency market. With the initial investment from a Seed Capital Investor and the flexibility offered to investors, the ETF is poised for a successful launch, potentially by June 2024. The positive market sentiment and the precedent set by BlackRock’s Bitcoin ETF further bolster the prospects for this new financial product.