YieldMax Applies For Ether Options ETF Amid Spot Ethereum ETF S-1 Amendments

As a researcher with a background in finance and experience following the digital asset space closely, I’m excited about YieldMax’s recent filing for an Ether Option Income Strategy ETF. The proposed fund’s use of a synthetic covered call strategy to capitalize on Ethereum’s volatility is intriguing, as it provides investors with additional income streams and risk management tools.


A well-known ETF provider, YieldMax, has made an application to the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for a new product: an Ether Option Income Strategy ETF. This ETF is planned to be traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE Arca), as mentioned in a document filed on June 21, 2024. Notably, this announcement precedes the anticipated debut of Spot Ethereum ETFs within the US market.

YieldMax’s Ether Option Income Strategy ETF

YieldMax’s suggested ETF uses a synthetic covered call approach. This strategy aims to capitalize on the volatility of Ethereum Spot ETFs, providing investors with potential profits. Furthermore, selling call options allows investors in Ethereum Spot ETFs to generate extra income and manage risk more effectively.

During this process, it’s crucial to understand that the fund will reject proposals for investing directly in Ethereum or any forthcoming Spot Ethereum Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF). Instead, Tidal Investments will oversee the management of the Ether Option ETF, with ZEGA Financial providing consulting services. For clarification, ZEGA Financial is a US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) registered investment advisor that focuses on derivatives trading.

Moving forward, YieldMax recently introduced a new filing for an additional ETF, following the debut of its Bitcoin Option Yield Strategy ETF (YBIT) last year. The YBIT ETF, which is also accessible on NYSE Arca, comes with an expense ratio of 0.99%. Notably, there’s been a surge of interest in Ethereum Spot ETFs as well.

Based on the most recent SEC filings, each of the eight companies – which include industry leaders like BlackRock, 21Shares, Fidelity, Grayscale, Franklin Templeton, VanEck, Bitwise, and Invesco – have updated their S-1 forms. These amendments offer additional insights regarding fees and initial investments.

Applicants Submit Amended S-1 Filings For Spot Ethereum ETFs

I, as an analyst, have observed that BlackRock, VanEck, Invesco Galaxy, Franklin Templeton, Grayscale, and 21Shares recently submitted revised S-1 filings to the SEC on a Friday. Previously, Bitwise and Fidelity had also submitted their amendments. At present, only Franklin Templeton and VanEck have revealed their management fees, which are indicated at 0.19% and 0.20%, respectively.

Eric Balchunas, Bloomberg’s senior ETF analyst, pointed out the competitive pricing in a post on X. He noted that VanEck’s fee of 0.20% is relatively low, which may prompt BlackRock to keep their fee below 30 basis points.

The SEC has given its approval to the 19b-4 forms for these ETFs about a month ago. Nevertheless, the registration statements still require finalization before trading can begin. Some companies have also publicly disclosed the seed capital they have invested in these ETFs. This revelation underscores their dedication to the funds and their role in supplying the initial capital required for trading activities.

21Shares US LLC, acting on its behalf, invested $340,739 by purchasing 20,000 shares in the 21Shares Core Ethereum Trust ETF. Additionally, Franklin Templeton and Invesco Ltd., both major players, declared initial investments of $100,000 for their respective Ethereum ETFs. Notably, BlackRock showed a strong commitment with a substantial seeding payment amounting to $10 million.

As a researcher, I’m closely following the developments in the market, with great anticipation for the SEC’s final decision regarding the launch of new Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs). The rumors hint at a potential start date of July 2. However, it is important to note that the SEC’s meticulous review process plays a crucial role in ensuring all disclosure and regulatory procedures are flawlessly executed before these financial instruments can begin trading. Consequently, the S-1 amendments serve as a platform for ongoing dialogues between the SEC and applicants.

Read More

2024-06-22 10:12