Ethereum (ETH) and Solana (SOL) staking exchange-traded funds (ETFs) could launch in the United States within weeks, according to ETF analysts. The long-anticipated feature of crypto ETFs appears to be arriving sooner than expected thanks to a regulatory workaround implemented by REX Shares.
🧠 What Makes These ETFs Unique?
Unlike traditional ETF filings, REX Shares structured their funds as C-corporations (C-corps) — an uncommon move in the ETF world. This structure allows the funds to bypass the 19b-4 SEC approval process, which typically delays ETF launches.
“These ETFs are structured as c-corps. Which is very rare in the ETF world,” noted ETF analyst James Seyffart in a May 30 post on X.
🔍 How the Structure Works
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The funds gain exposure to Ether and Solana via Cayman-based subsidiaries
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As C-corps, they incur current and deferred tax liabilities, which are reflected in the fund’s Net Asset Value (NAV)
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Bypass of the SEC’s 19b-4 rule allows quicker market access
While this structure introduces tax implications, it offers a strategic advantage in speeding up the approval process.
⚖️ Why It Matters: SEC Delays and Staking Demand
The move follows the SEC’s delay on Bitwise’s application to add staking to its Ether ETF on May 21. Seyffart noted the delay was expected, as the SEC often takes its full review period for 19b-4 filings.
By contrast, REX Shares’ approach avoids that wait — and it appears to be working.
💡 ETF Industry Reacts: “Imminent Launches”
ETF Store President Nate Geraci called the move a “regulatory end-around,” suggesting that both ETFs are nearing launch. He noted that REX’s funds aim to stake at least 50% of ETH and SOL holdings, delivering the long-awaited staking yield to investors.
“Looks like two crypto ETF launches are imminent,” Geraci stated.
🚨 Industry Leaders Have Called for Staking
On March 20, BlackRock’s head of digital assets, Robbie Mitchnick, acknowledged the firm’s Ether ETF was a “tremendous success,” but noted that the lack of staking made it less than ideal.
The arrival of staking-enabled ETFs addresses this gap and marks a major milestone in U.S. crypto ETF development.
✅ Key Takeaways
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ETH and SOL staking ETFs may launch within weeks
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Structured as C-corps to bypass SEC’s 19b-4 approval
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Provide spot exposure and staking yield via Cayman entities
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Targeting 50% or more staked holdings
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Responds to long-standing demand for yield-generating crypto ETFs