Bitcoin ETFs changed the crypto narrative — from neutral to bullish. But that’s not all they achieved. BTC ETFs primed the entire crypto community for Ethereum spot ETFs, the next groundbreaking amalgamation of crypto and traditional finance. But then, a spot ETH ETF might still be far from an official SEC approval.
As we await that possibility, this guide discusses the current state of the Ethereum ETF market, including the types, existing global options, and the expected impact of upcoming spot picks on the broader crypto space.
Methodology
In selecting the best platforms for users to buy Ethereum in 2024, BeInCrypto conducted a thorough analysis considering various factors such as ease of use, security features, trading tools, deposit methods, commissions, and additional features offered by the platforms. Our product teams tested a number of leading exchanges over a period of six months before narrowing down the options. Below is a snapshot of the rationale for the selection of each platform:
1. Coinbase:
Coinbase’s user-friendly interface makes it accessible to both beginners and experienced traders. The platform’s intuitive design simplifies the buying process, allowing users to purchase Ethereum with ease.
Coinbase also provides users with advanced trading tools and charts, empowering them to make informed decisions. These tools enable users to analyze market trends and execute trades effectively.
Security is paramount when it comes to purchasing Ethereum and any other crypto. Coinbase employs state-of-the-art encryption protocols to safeguard users’ funds and personal information, providing peace of mind to investors.
2. OKX:
OKX stands out for its support of leverage trades, catering to both casual investors and seasoned traders looking to maximize their returns. This feature enhances the platform’s appeal to a wide range of users.
The global platform also offers multiple deposit methods, providing flexibility and convenience to users worldwide.
OKX also notably offers competitive commissions, allowing users to trade Ethereum cost-effectively. Lower fees translate to higher potential returns for investors, making OKX an attractive choice.
3. Uphold:
Uphold’s cross-asset swap feature enables users to seamlessly exchange Ethereum with other cryptocurrencies and traditional assets. This functionality enhances liquidity and diversification opportunities for investors.
The platform also offers automated trading support, allowing users to implement trading strategies and execute trades automatically. This feature is particularly beneficial for those seeking to optimize their trading activities.
Finally, Uphold’s direct card integration facilitates seamless purchases of Ethereum using debit or credit cards. This integration streamlines the buying process, offering convenience and accessibility to users.
Considering the user-friendly interfaces, advanced trading tools, robust security measures, and additional features offered by Coinbase, OKX, and Uphold, BeInCrypto identified these platforms as the best options for users to buy Ethereum in 2024.
Whether users prioritize simplicity, trading flexibility, or additional features, these platforms cater to diverse needs, providing a comprehensive solution for Ethereum investors.
To learn more about BeInCrypto’s verification methodologies, follow this link.
In this guide:
- Best platforms to buy ETH before spot ETF approval
- Coinbase
- OKX
- Uphold
- What is Ethereum ETF?
- The mechanics of ETH ETFs explained
- Types of ETH ETFs
- Spot Ethereum ETF vs. Ethereum futures ETF
- Ethereum ETF guide: Which ETFs to pick?
- Ethereum ETP vs. Ethereum ETF explained
- Pros and cons of Ethereum ETFs
- What is the difference between Ethereum and Ethereum ETF?
- Ethereum ETF vs. Bitcoin ETF
- How do I invest in ETH ETF?
- Can ETH ETF be the ultimate “flippening” instrument?
- Frequently asked questions
Best platforms to buy ETH before spot ETF approval
With the market becoming increasingly bullish in March 2024, many traders are eying the possibility of an ETH price surge following any spot Ethereum ETF approval. If you want to purchase some ETH before spot ETFs burst onto the scene, these platforms can facilitate safe and seamless ETH transactions for beginners — while offering some nifty features for advanced traders. Remember that ETH ETF approval is not a certainty nor guarantees profits.
Coinbase
Platform
Brokerage
Fees
$0.99-$4.19
Availability
100+ countries
•Easy to navigate
•Powerful tools and charts
•State-of-art encryption
OKX
Platform
Exchange
Fees
0.08% (maker) | 0.1% (taker)
Availability
160+ countries
•Supports leverage trades
•Multiple deposit methods
•Competitive commissions
Uphold
Platform
Exchange
Fees
0.25-2.65%
Availability
170+ countries
•Cross-asset swaps
•Automated trading support
•Direct Card integration for seamless purchases
What is Ethereum ETF?
Ethereum ETFs are nothing fancy. Fundamentally, they still function very much like Bitcoin ETFs. The purpose is to offer a transparent, accessible, and regulated pathway to legacy investors to have exposure to Ethereum — in one way or the other. Note while a spot ETH ETF is expected to offer direct exposure to Ether’s prices, Ethereum futures ETFs already exist in U.S. markets.
These ETFs — Exchange-Traded Funds — are available on leading stock exchanges and are listed as shares. When traders or investors buy ETF shares, they gain exposure to crypto without having to use centralized and decentralized exchanges or install and manage crypto wallets.
— Lark Davis (@TheCryptoLark) March 13, 2024Applications for spot $ETH ETFs are in the process of being evaluated by the SEC.
Last week, Grayscale and Coinbase met with the regulatory commission to try and push forward the case for approval.
Will we get an approval by May?
The mechanics of ETH ETFs explained
As a reminder, spot ETH ETFs do not yet exist (at least, not in U.S. markets). If and when they arrive, the funds in charge of the ETFs will pool investor capital to purchase actual ETH, which would then become the underlying ETF asset. Regarding the futures ETFs related to Ethereum, the fund managers offer exposure to the Futures contracts, where the capital is used and pooled to purchase contracts.
As the contracts have expiration dates, contract rollovers are involved in maintaining the exposure of ETF shares to Ethereum. The process involves selling near-expiry contracts and using the funds to purchase the contracts with a long-due expiration date. In the case of a Futures Ethereum ETF, contract management is the key.
“We are 280 days out from the BTC halvening and a spot bitcoin ETF looks to be coming by the end of the year, if not sooner. No doubt this will lead to other ETF opportunities for other cryptoassets.”
Vance Spencer, Co-Founder of Framework Ventures: X
Also, it is important to note that SEC follows different spot ETF evaluation mechanics at the backend, where the correlation between the spot and Futures market is evaluated and studied. A higher correlation, closing in on 100% for ETH, might be the secret sauce for speedy ETH ETF approval. This step is vital to determine the accuracy of crypto index tracking or ETH price tacking in the case of spot ETFs.
SEC also uses other tools, like the Howey Test, to determine if the asset warrants creating an ETF product.
— Nate Geraci (@NateGeraci) March 8, 2024SEC met yesterday w/ Grayscale attorneys & Coinbase re: spot ether ETF…
Discussion included analysis of correlation b/w futures & spot markets.https://t.co/sYKrxprjjR pic.twitter.com/vxx1rnV0ZO
Creation and redemption
Another component of the spot Ethereum ETF structure is the creation and redemption process in play. The creation process involves APs or Authorized Participants creating new shares, buying the underlying asset or ETH, and exchanging them for the shares. This is how creation units are formed.
The redemption element comes in when APs return the shares to the issuers to get back the proportionate share of the underlying asset. The creation and redemption process is dynamic and helps keep the price of one ETF unit closer to the NAV or Net Asset Value.
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Types of ETH ETFs
ETH ETFs can be categorized as spot ETH ETFs and futures ETH ETFs. Only futures ETH ETFs exist, with spot ETFs expected to be approved by the SEC in 2024. But based on how the Bitcoin spot ETFs operate, here’s how we expect the spot ETH ETFs to function:
- Provide direct exposure to ETH
- Eliminate the need for wallets and exchanges
- Offer a familiar and regulated environment for traders
Futures ETFs are functional, and the fund managers offer them exposure to Ethereum’s prices via standardized agreements at predetermined future prices. Even these fund houses or ETH ETF issuers do not hold actual Ether.
A novel yet aggressive take on the spot ETH ETF approval:
#Ethereum is the most likely coin in the world to get a U.S. ETF next. Historically $ETH has murder Bitcoin returns, as you could once get 2000 ETH for 1 BTC. Now you can only get 17. BTC bros are excited about the BTC inflation going down by half. It's still inflating, but ETH… pic.twitter.com/kZlRhto0wf
— Richard Heart (@RichardHeartWin) March 8, 2024
Spot Ethereum ETF vs. Ethereum futures ETF
Even though spot ETH ETFs haven’t entered the U.S., they are available globally. Therefore, comparing these with futures ETH ETFs makes sense.
| Feature | Spot Ethereum ETFs | Futures Ethereum ETFs |
| Underlying asset | Directly holds Ethereum. | Holds Ethereum futures contracts. |
| Market exposure | The real-time market price of Ethereum. | Price movements of Ethereum futures. |
| Investment objective | Mirror the current market value of Ethereum. | Speculate on future price movements of Ethereum. |
| Volatility exposure | Direct exposure to Ethereum’s volatility. | Market volatility through futures contracts. |
| Regulatory landscape | Stringent regulatory hurdles for approval. | More readily approved due to established futures market infrastructure. |
| Investor suitability | Investors seeking direct exposure to Ethereum’s price movements. | Investors looking for speculative opportunities or indirect exposure to Ethereum. |
| Primary advantages | Direct correlation with Ethereum’s price and simplified access. | Speculative opportunities on price movements and minimal exposure to direct crypto volatility. |
| Primary challenges | High price volatility and regulatory approval challenges. | Futures market complexity and contango and counterparty risks in futures contracts. |
| Global examples | The Purpose Ether ETF (Canada) and The ETHE ETF by Grayscale (USA) — not a traditional ETF and follow a Trust structure. | ProShares Ether Strategy ETF (USA) and The CI Galaxy Ethereum ETF (Canada) |
Several well-known ETF issuers have already applied with the SEC to launch spot Ethereum ETFs. Some of the more notable names include:
- Grayscale
- Ark Invest and 21Shares
- VanEck
- Fidelity
- BlackRock
- Franklin Templeton
- Hashdex
- Invesco
Also, besides the mentioned differences, the nature of custodians also varies. For instance, for spot ETFs, custodians actually need to hold actual Ether, whereas, for futures, the same changes are made to the safekeeping of futures contracts.
“ETH ETF approval in May is bullish.
Delay is also bullish – longer cycle.”
Alex Svanevik, CEO of Nansen: X
Ethereum ETF guide: Which ETFs to pick?
Now we know what an Ethereum ETF is. But which options should you pick?
As mentioned, only futures choices are currently available in the U.S. Let us take a closer look at them, depending on their geographical relevance.
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SEC-approved Ethereum ETF picks
Futures Ethereum ETFs can be traded as they have the requisite regulatory approval. Here are the options you can consider:
- Bitwise 10 Crypto Index Fund Futures (BITW)
- Valkyrie Bitcoin and Ether Strategy ETF (BTF)
- VanEck Ethereum Strategy ETF (EFUT)
- ProShares Ether Strategy ETF (EETH)
- Bitwise Bitcoin and Ether Equal Weight Strategy ETF
- Bitwise Ethereum Strategy ETF Futures (AETH)
- ARK 21Shares Active Ethereum Futures Strategy ETF (ARKZ)
- ProShares Bitcoin & Ether Market Cap Weight Strategy ETF (BETH)
- ProShares Bitcoin & Ether Equal Weight Strategy ETF (BETE)
Did you know? The VanEck Ethereum Strategy ETF (EFUT) was launched on Oct. 2, 2023? One of EFUT’s top holdings is the United States Treasury Bills.
Other Ethereum ETF picks explained
Other countries also take Ethereum ETFs seriously. Here are a few specific to Canada:
- CI Galaxy Ethereum ETF (ETHX)
- Purpose Ether ETF (ETHH)
- Evolve Ether ETF (ETHR)
- 3iQ CoinShares Ether ETF (ETHQ)
- Fidelity Advantage Ether ETF
Besides that, there are a handful of other options:
Sweden (ETPs)
- XBT Provider Ethereum Tracker One
- XBT Provider Ethereum Tracker Euro
Switzerland (ETPs)
- 21Shares Ethereum Staking ETP
- 21Shares Ethereum ETP
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Jersey (ETP)
- CoinShares Physical Staked Ethereum
Others
- Germany (ETP): ETC Group Physical Ethereum
- Bermuda (ETP): Hashdex Nasdaq Ethereum ETF
- Hong Kong (ETP): CSOP Ether Futures ETF
- Guernsey (ETP): AMINA Ethereum ETP
- Australia (ETF): Global X 21 Shares Ethereum ETF
- Malaysia (ETF): Halogen Shariah Ethereum Fund
Notably, the global Ether-related cryptocurrency investment products aren’t restricted by regulatory approval and also provide spot Ethereum ETF picks. Some of the spot Ethereum ETF picks include Purpose Ether ETF, Evolve Ether ETF, and more.
Ethereum ETP vs. Ethereum ETF explained
In the section above, ETP’s have been mentioned a number of times. Here is how ETPs and ETFs differ:
While ETFs are often regulated products and track the price of ETH, ETPs or Exchange Traded Products can include a wider range of options. These can include Exchange Traded Notes or ETNs, ETCs or Exchange-Traded Commodities, and more. Also, ETPs do not require the same level of regulatory oversight.
Pros and cons of Ethereum ETFs
Now that you know how diverse Ethereum ETFs are, per this Ethereum ETF guide, it is important to look at the pros and cons:
Ethereum ETF benefits
- Accessible and simplified as an TradFi-cum-cryptocurrency investment option
- Regulatory compliance catering to the more risk-averse investors
- Enhanced levels of investor protection
- High liquidity option
- Minimal management complexity
- Simplified tax reporting procedures
- Better for the price of ETH as spot ETFs can reduce the supply
- Acts like a passive investment option for the crypto folks who do not want direct Ethereum market exposure.
— Altcoin Daily (@AltcoinDailyio) March 12, 2024Ethereum ETF pays out yield.
Everyone underestimates this.$ETH's supply decreases.
Ethereum will be explosive with an ETF. pic.twitter.com/fFah3CBt70
Ethereum ETF challenges
- Still prone to market volatility as ETH is still a crypto asset
- Tracking error
- Counterparty risks associated with Futures ETFs
- Centralization risks as Ethereum is PoS, and there might be token hoarding
When asked about the challenges, Sal Poorna told BeInCrypto:
“If the Ethereum ETF is approved and BlackRock or other institutional investors begin to invest in Ethereum, which operates on a proof-of-stake model, there could be significant implications. Should BlackRock or similar entities acquire a substantial portion of Ethereum’s coins and choose to stake them, they could effectively gain control over the network’s voting rights.
This concentration of power might lead to a centralization of Ethereum, which is contrary to the decentralized ethos the cryptocurrency aims to uphold.”
Sai Poorna, marketing and partnerships at Bluewheel Mining and early-stage Investor: BeInCrypto
Here is a lesser-known challenge in case the Spot ETH ETF arrives:
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— Fred Krueger (@dotkrueger) March 5, 2024My number one concern in life is that ETH ETF.
It's critical we keep the Wall Street spigot 100% focused on Bitcoin for at least one more year.
If they accept the ETH ETF in 2025, it will be too late. Wall Street will be already pot committed on Bitcoin.
If, by some horror,…
What is the difference between Ethereum and Ethereum ETF?
Ethereum is an incredibly popular blockchain protocol with Ether (ETH) as its native cryptocurrency. Purchasing Ether requires a crypto exchange — centralized or decentralized — and storing the asset requires a crypto wallet. Ethereum ETFs, however, trade on standard or traditional exchanges — the ones dealing in the stock market. Yes, the funds issuing the ETFs might hold Ethereum as the underlying asset, but that is not your concern as a trader.
Purchasing Ethereum (ETH) at key levels requires you to time the market. And even though fractional ETH buying is supported, you still have to sign up on the CEX or DEX to make a purchase. Ethereum ETFs, on the other hand, trade like shares at far more competitive rates per unit.
VanEck’s EFUT is trading at $30 as of March 15, 2024, per this chart.
While Ethereum is a standard cryptocurrency prone to crypto-like volatility, an ETH ETF is a financial product that trades on stock exchanges. Even with ETFs, volatility might still be a concern.
Finally, Ethereum (ETH) can be purchased from all the leading global cryptocurrency exchanges like Binance, Coinbase, OKX, and more. Once bought, the purchased ETH can be used to take part in network activities, generate passive income opportunities via staking, and more. An Ethereum ETF, on the other hand, is just like a share sitting in your portfolio.
Ethereum ETF vs. Bitcoin ETF
While ETH ETFs work with Ethereum spot or futures as the underlying asset, Bitcoin ETFs have BTC as the empowering component. Also, the perception of BTC as a commodity, akin to “digital gold,” has somewhat facilitated a clear path to regulatory approval.
Also, Ethereum ETFs mostly deal in futures as of March 15, 2024, and the spot ETH ETF picks are not U.S. native. Bitcoin ETFs, however, can be categorized as spot Bitcoin ETFs, Bitcoin futures ETFs, leveraged ETFs, Inverse ETFs, thematic ETFs, and more.
What did you think of my theory that ETH is harder for the average person to grok, and so that would be one of the reasons an ETH ETF probably wouldn’t get the same level of adoption, at least from the get-go?
— Laura Shin (@laurashin) March 8, 2024
How do I invest in ETH ETF?
Investing in the U.S. requires you to register with licensed brokers or platforms like TD Ameritrade, E*TRADE, and more. Once you have registered and validated your credentials, you can search for the preferred ETH ETF and start investing.
Here’s how the interface looks, with all the stock-like details listed under one roof.
Global Ethereum ETFs can also be traded, over select brokers:
Can ETH ETF be the ultimate “flippening” instrument?
Flippening, where ETH overtakes BTC, is still a distant dream for the Ethereum camp. And even with the existing set of ETH ETF picks around, Ethereum’s success can be primarily attributed to its vast DApp, DeFi, and smart contract-powered ecosystem.
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Therefore, Ethereum, the chain, isn’t reliant on new ETH ETFs. However, if a spot ETH ETF gets approved, and that too in the bull market, such good news could further complement Ether’s already aggressive ascension.
Frequently asked questions
What does ETF mean in crypto?
In the crypto space, an ETF or Exchange-Traded Fund signifies a financial or rather an investment instrument, tracking the price of one or more assets. For instance, the ETH ETF allows Ethereum market exposure in the form of a traditional investment instrument. With crypto ETFs, both institutional investors and retail investors can gain exposure to crypto without worrying about crypto exchanges, wallets, market liquidity, and other concerns.
Is ether a security?
Ethereum’s shift to the proof-of-stake (PoS) realm has rekindled the security debate. As PoS tokens can be locked to gain additional interest, post the PoS transition, the incentives and functionality associated with owning ETH have changed. The SEC applies the well-known Howey Test on assets to determine if an asset is a security, and Ether hasn’t been officially classified as one. This security debate may finally rest once Ethereum ETFs are approved in the U.S.
Which regulatory body oversees ether futures ETFs?
Ether Futures ETFs or any other upcoming ETF picks related to crypto fall under the purview of the SEC. For futures ETFs specifically, which track Ethereum price movements via Futures Contracts, SEC approval is necessary. The SEC approved one of the first ETH futures ETFs back in 2017. From the risk factors to the credibility of the ETF custodian and the overall Ethereum ETF structure, the SEC analyses everything.
Which Ethereum ETF is best?
The best Ethereum ETF is the one that aligns with your investing needs and preferences. As for the decided factors, you might want to consider the credibility of the issuer, say BlackRock, if and when they start offering spot ETH ETFs. Plus, crypto index tracking accuracy, ETF custodian reliability, regulatory oversight, and the associated ETF purchasing fees should also be considered.
How can I buy Ethereum ETF in the U.S.?
In the U.S., it isn’t yet possible to purchase a spot ETH ETF. However, there are brokers and platforms like E*TRADE, Charles Shwab, and more that allow you to invest in the available futures ETFs associated with Ethereum.
Does Ether have an ETF?
Ether doesn’t have a spot Ethereum ETF in the U.S. However, in other economies, like Switzerland, Jersey, and more, the regulatory landscape is a bit more accommodative and there are a number of physically backed ETH ETFs. However, a spot ETH ETF might soon surface, adding more power to the existing bull market scenario.
Will Ethereum ETFs be approved?
Projections made by Standard Chartered put the spot Ethereum ETF approval date at May 23, 2024. This forecast is based on the application deadlines sent to the SEC by the likes of Ark 21Shares and VanEck. With Bitcoin ETFs getting the green signal in 2024, it is expected that spot ETH ETFs will follow soon.
Are crypto ETFs safe?
Crypto ETFs are still prone to volatility as their underlying asset is still cryptocurrency or crypto futures. However, as they trade on legacy stock exchanges and adhere to regulatory standards, investing in crypto ETFs comes within the realm of investor protection, making them a bit safer compared to the crypto itself.
Is it safe to invest in Ethereum?
Ethereum is the second most popular cryptocurrency globally. Yet, like any other digital asset, it is subject to volatility, quick price dips, and capital erosion. But then, ETH, the native crypto of Ethereum, isn’t the only thing powering the ecosystem. Instead, Ethereum supports DApps, smart contracts, and other developer-centric resources, making it one of the more credible projects around.
Can Ethereum reach $50,000?
Ethereum’s ascension of $50,000 still seems far-fetched. However, ETH might come close to reaching this level over the next five to ten years, provided the road to ETH 2.0 is followed. Plus, adoption rates, availability of traditional products like ETH ETFs and ETPs, regulatory changes, and more will also determine if ETH reaches this speculative level or not.
Top crypto platforms in the US | March 2024
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