Key Takeaways: The proposal signals a shift toward blending DeFi practices with conventional ETF structures. Staking aims to boost returns beyond typical asset appreciation. This move reflects broader industry trends in crypto asset management. The Cboe BZX Exchange submitted a proposal to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on Tuesday, seeking permission to include staking features in the Fidelity Ethereum ETH ETF to enhance potential investor returns. Outlined in the SEC Form 19b-4 , this update indicates a shift in managing digital asset funds. With this proposal, Fidelity plans to enhance the ETH ETF’s returns by incorporating staking. NEW: Cboe BZX Exchange files to add staking to Fidelity's $ETF fund pic.twitter.com/cAAlKQEXJY — MrRebel.eth (@rebelethpromos) March 11, 2025 By allowing staking of ether held by the Trust, the fund could benefit from Ethereum’s proof-of-stake mechanism, through which participants earn rewards by validating transactions and supporting network security. This approach reflects the broader trend of combining traditional financial products with decentralized finance (DeFi) strategies, highlighting increased integration in crypto asset management. Proposal to Amend ETH ETF to Include Staking The filing indicates that after discussions with the sponsor, the Exchange seeks amendments to Eth ETP Amendment No. 2 to permit staking of ether held by the Trust, including removing the previous restriction that prevented the fund from staking. Removing this restriction would allow the ETF to generate additional yield through staking, making it more competitive in the crypto market. This proposal aligns closely with recent similar actions in the market, highlighting increased demand for staking within crypto ETFs. Previous 21Shares ETF Staking Proposal The Cboe’s Fidelity proposal follows an earlier initiative involving a similar rule change for another Ethereum-focused ETF. In February, the Cboe BZX Exchange proposed a rule change to the SEC to allow staking within the 21Shares Core Ethereum (ETH) ETF. Cboe BZX Exchange has proposed a rule change to allow staking in the 21Shares Core ETH ETF—an approach not yet seen in US ETH ETF. #21Shares #EtherETF https://t.co/guxtqPVcxt — Cryptonews.com (@cryptonews) February 13, 2025 That filing sought to reverse earlier regulations governing the ETF, specifically permitting staking of the Ethereum held by the trust after discussions with the ETF’s sponsor. Industry analysts have actively discussed this proposal on social media platforms. Although SEC approval is pending, the proposal represents a considerable progress toward modernizing crypto investment vehicles. Combining traditional asset management with blockchain-based staking highlights an increasing integration of conventional finance with digital asset strategies. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) How does staking boost an ETF’s performance? Integrating staking provides an extra income stream via blockchain rewards, helping to offset market volatility and potentially stabilize returns, which adds resilience to the fund’s performance. What regulatory challenges could arise with staking-enabled ETFs? Allowing staking may trigger tighter oversight on asset custody and risk management, as regulators balance innovation with investor protection while ensuring compliance with evolving crypto guidelines. What does this trend signal for future crypto investments? This development signals a merging of traditional finance and DeFi, potentially setting new industry standards for yield generation and risk management that could reshape broader crypto investment strategies. The post CBOE Submits Proposal to Allow Staking in the Fidelity ETH ETF appeared first on Cryptonews .
