BlackRock Files S-1 Amendment for Ethereum ETF Approval

BlackRock, Inc. has filed an amendment to its S-1 registration statement seeking approval for in-kind creation and redemption of shares for its iShares Ethereum Trust (ETHA).

Bloomberg analysts expect approval to reshape ETF dynamics for Ethereum significantly.

BlackRock has made a strategic amendment to its S-1 registration to permit in-kind creation and redemption for its iShares Ethereum Trust (ETHA). The amendment suggests transitioning from a cash-only to a potentially more efficient in-kind process. James Seyffart and Eric Balchunas, senior ETF analysts, have expressed anticipation for SEC approval of this mechanism. If approved, it would optimize ETF operations, unlike the previous cash-only models. This step signals BlackRock’s commitment to improving ETF structures, impacting ETH directly due to the changes in share creation and redemption.

The move has the potential to enhance liquidity, reduce trading costs, and increase market efficiency for Ethereum. Bloomberg’s James Seyffart noted that institutional investors might benefit from this change, given the reduced inefficiencies in ETF operations. The amendment reflects a growing trend in the financial industry towards introducing in-kind structures for cryptocurrency ETFs. Existing on-chain data does not reveal immediate effects but indicates potential for increased ETH transactions with large-scale ETF issuers.

“Eric Balchunas & I expect SEC approval for in-kind at some point this year…Notably, the first application for any of the Ethereum ETFs to allow In-kind create/redeem has a final deadline around ~10/11/25.” — James Seyffart, Senior ETF Analyst, Bloomberg

The proposed decision may set a precedent for other issuers to adopt similar models, enhancing market participation and confirming the growing institutional interest in Ethereum. Both historical trends and expert analysis suggest such adjustments could significantly benefit the broader crypto market. HSBC and other asset managers have filed similar updates, reflecting a possible industry-wide shift. The SEC’s decision, expected by November 2025, is eagerly awaited by the financial and crypto communities for its implications.