• Five crypto ETF issuers filed amendments seeking SEC approval for in-kind redemptions. 
• Bloomberg’s Seyffart says new filings suggest SEC is adjusting its stance on redemptions. 
• In-kind redemptions may improve ETF efficiency but remain limited to institutional traders. 

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is making progress toward approving in-kind redemptions of Bitcoin and Ethereum exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Bloomberg analyst James Seyffart noted the positive regulatory momentum highlighted by recent filings from five ETF issuers. The companies, Invesco Galaxy, Ark 21Shares, VanEck, WisdomTree, and Fidelity, filed amendments to their prospectus requesting the in-kind creation and redemption features.

These registrations indicate that issuers are working closely with the agency to finalize details of in-kind redemptions. Seyffart noted this trend, which he called a “positive sign” that regulatory approval could be close.

The SEC has delayed ruling on similar filings due to concerns about the security and complexity of crypto funds’ in-kind procedures. But the amendments suggest that regulators may be softening their position and modifying requirements.

Amendments Signal SEC Shift on In-Kind Redemptions 

In-kind redemptions allow investors to redeem ETF shares directly in the underlying digital assets like Bitcoin or Ethereum, instead of cash. This mechanism offers efficiency benefits and potential tax advantages by avoiding the sale of assets that could trigger capital gains. Despite these benefits, regulators have raised concerns over the complexities and risks associated with managing crypto holdings in the redemption process.

As clarified by James Seyffart, upon approval, in-kind redemptions would apply only to authorized participants like institutional investors and market makers. This feature would not be directly available to retail investors. He noted that the existing ETFs are already highly efficient in trading, and thus, in-kind redemptions may not have a notable impact on everyday investors. 

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SEC’s Ongoing Review of Crypto ETF Features and Industry Response

SEC has continued postponing the ruling on several crypto-related ETF features, including in-kind redemptions and staking. In July, the regulator delayed its ruling on in-kind redemptions of Bitwise Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs and decisions on BlackRock proposals to allow iShares Ethereum Trust staking. 

In addition, SEC commissioner Hester Peirce has noted that in-kind redemptions of crypto ETFs are “on the horizon,” acknowledging the growing interest in the industry.

The registration of companies like 21Shares, Franklin Templeton, and Galaxy indicates that the industry is seeking ways to make ETFs more efficient. Crypto ETFs have continued to experience robust institutional demand with Ethereum products having record inflows.

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