TLDR
- Bitwise has set a 0.20 percent fee for its upcoming Solana staking ETF.
- The fee is lower than expected and could attract significant investor interest.
- Bloomberg analyst Eric Balchunas described the fee as surprisingly low and highly competitive.
- The SEC has paused approvals for crypto ETFs due to the recent U.S. government shutdown.
- Bitwise continues to push forward despite regulatory delays and limited staffing at the SEC.
Bitwise has fixed a 0.20% fee for its upcoming Solana staking ETF, signaling aggressive positioning in the crypto ETF market. The move comes as the firm amends its SEC registration, advancing preparations despite the ongoing government shutdown. This development may boost competition as more firms seek approval for crypto-based ETFs.
Bitwise Solana Staking ETF Targets Investor Inflows
Bitwise confirmed in a filing that its Solana staking ETF will carry a 0.20% sponsor fee, below market expectations. This strategic pricing suggests Bitwise aims to attract investor inflows through cost leadership and early market entry. According to Bloomberg’s Eric Balchunas,
“Bitwise not playing around… need war to get this low.”
Low fees generally result in stronger investor interest and fund growth, especially during early-stage adoption cycles. Bitwise has previously positioned itself competitively in relation to other crypto fund launches. The Solana staking ETF reflects this trend, aligning with the firm’s approach to dominate through pricing.
The 0.20% fee aligns with that of earlier Bitcoin and Ethereum ETF approvals, establishing a consistent benchmark across crypto assets. By maintaining this rate, Bitwise aligns with investor demand for low-cost, high-efficiency investment vehicles. This consistency may support broader institutional interest in Solana-based exposure.
Regulatory Uncertainty Slows Momentum
Despite Bitwise’s progress, overall crypto ETF approvals remain stalled due to the recent U.S. government shutdown. The SEC operates with a limited workforce, reducing its ability to review pending ETF filings. This slowdown affects all crypto ETF applicants, including those focused on Solana and other altcoins.
The shutdown has delayed dozens of proposals, including those involving DOGE, LTC, and additional Solana-based instruments. However, Bitwise continues pushing forward with product innovation and regulatory preparation. Its filing signals optimism that review activity will resume in the coming weeks.
Market observers expect further developments once full SEC operations restart. Until then, Bitwise and its peers must wait as the agency navigates emergency-only staffing protocols. The timing of future approvals remains tied to broader legislative developments.
21Shares Expands Ethereum ETF with Staking Benefits
Alongside Bitwise’s update, 21Shares announced the integration of staking for its Ethereum ETF. The firm also introduced a one-year waiver of the sponsor fee to attract new investors. This development highlights a growing trend of adding yield-enhancing features to crypto ETFs.
According to 21Shares, staking enhances long-term value for Ethereum ETF holders by providing access to on-chain yield generation. This aligns with Bitwise’s move into Solana staking, where rewards from network participation create a new ETF class. Both initiatives reflect the evolving landscape of U.S. crypto investment products.
