In a significant move that highlights the growing mainstream acceptance of cryptocurrencies, BlackRock, the world’s largest asset manager, is set to launch its Ethereum ETF on Brazil’s B3 stock exchange. Trading under the ticker code ETHA39, the new ETF will begin trading on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, offering Brazilian investors a unique opportunity to gain exposure to Ethereum, the second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization.
Expanding Crypto Horizons
BlackRock’s decision to introduce ETHA39 to the Brazilian market is part of a broader strategy to expand its cryptocurrency offerings in Latin America. The firm had already made headlines in March 2024 with the launch of its Bitcoin ETF, IBIT39, also on the B3 exchange. The successful reception of IBIT39, driven by strong demand, has paved the way for this latest Ethereum-focused product.
ETHA39 is structured as a Brazilian Depositary Receipt (BDR), which means it represents a fraction of BlackRock’s iShares Ethereum Trust (ETHA) but is traded locally on the B3 exchange. Each BDR unit is expected to be priced between R$40 and R$50, with the exact value dependent on the ETF’s performance in the U.S. market. In a move to attract early investors, BlackRock is waiving the management fee for the first year, reducing it from the standard 0.25% to just 0.12% for assets under management up to US$2.5 billion.
Meeting Growing Demand
The launch of ETHA39 reflects a growing appetite for cryptocurrency investment products among Brazilian investors. Nicolas Gomez, BlackRock’s head of ETFs, index investments, and products for Latin America, emphasized the “robust demand” for the Bitcoin ETF, which significantly influenced the firm’s decision to expand its offerings with an Ethereum ETF. This demand is not unique to Brazil; BlackRock’s iShares Ethereum Trust in the United States recently surpassed $1 billion in cumulative net inflows, becoming the first U.S. spot Ethereum ETF to achieve this milestone. According to Farside Investors, the IBIT ETF alone attracted $224.1 million in inflows, underscoring the strong interest from institutional investors.
A Growing Market for Digital Assets
Brazil’s increasing receptiveness to digital assets is evident in recent regulatory developments. The Brazilian Securities and Exchange Commission (CVM) has approved two Solana-based ETFs to be listed on B3, signaling a broader acceptance of blockchain-based investments in the country. This trend reflects a growing recognition of the potential for digital assets to diversify investment portfolios, particularly in emerging markets like Brazil.
Also Read: Bitcoin ETF Surge – BlackRock Leads With $224M Inflows, Reviving $70,000 Price Hopes
As BlackRock’s ETHA39 begins trading on B3, it is poised to further enhance the firm’s presence in the Brazilian market and provide investors with a new way to engage with the rapidly evolving world of cryptocurrency. For investors looking to capitalize on the growing popularity of Ethereum, ETHA39 offers a compelling opportunity to do so within a regulated and familiar framework.
This latest development marks another milestone in BlackRock’s ongoing efforts to lead the charge in bringing cryptocurrency investment products to mainstream investors around the globe.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The author’s views are personal and may not reflect the views of Chain Affairs. Before making any investment decisions, you should always conduct your own research. Chain Affairs is not responsible for any financial losses.
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