Grayscale, a prominent asset management firm, has made significant amendments to its regulatory filing in an effort to convert its Ethereum Trust into a spot exchange-traded fund (ETF). The latest update, which was filed on March 15, builds upon the company’s original filing and enhances it in various ways. One of the key aspects of the amendment is the emphasis on surveillance sharing within the CME ETH market as a means of preventing fraud and manipulation in the spot ETH market.
In its amended filing, Grayscale includes a correlation analysis conducted by Coinbase to support the argument of sufficient market correlation. According to Coinbase’s findings, the CME ETH futures market has exhibited a consistently high correlation with the spot Ethereum market for the past three years. Interestingly, this correlation is even stronger than what the SEC had previously identified between the CME Bitcoin futures market and the spot Bitcoin market.
Creation and Redemption of ETF Shares
Another significant inclusion in Grayscale’s amendment is the expanded section on the creation and redemption of ETF shares. It is important to note that this section specifically focuses on cash creations and redemptions, excluding any involvement of authorized participants in the purchase, holding, delivery, or receipt of ETH. The filing reveals that the Grayscale Ethereum Trust currently manages $11.8 billion in assets, a substantial increase from the previously reported $4.8 billion in AUM. If the fund successfully transitions into an ETF, it could potentially unlock over $1.73 billion in value, surpassing the initial estimate of $1.6 billion.
Chief Legal Officer’s Perspective
Craig Salm, the Chief Legal Officer of Grayscale, has expressed optimism regarding the regulatory filing and highlighted the widespread appeal of spot Ethereum ETFs among investors. He emphasized the importance of providing investors with access to Ethereum through a spot ETF, stating that the demand for such a product is significant. Salm also drew parallels between the potential for Ethereum ETFs and the success of spot Bitcoin ETFs, underscoring the strong case for approval.
Market manipulation and the methods for creating and redeeming ETF shares have been key concerns in the approval process for spot Bitcoin ETFs. Grayscale’s comprehensive amendment aims to address these concerns within the context of Ethereum ETFs. It is a crucial step in the regulatory approval process, especially given the diminishing expectations for approval by the end of May, as indicated by Polymarket’s odds of just 26% as of March 15.
Grayscale’s efforts to convert its Ethereum Trust into a spot ETF represent a significant development in the cryptocurrency investment landscape. The company’s amended regulatory filing demonstrates a commitment to addressing regulatory concerns and enhancing transparency in the market. If approved, the transition to an ETF could unlock substantial value for investors and further integrate Ethereum into mainstream investment avenues.