BlackRock Adds In-Kind Feature to Ethereum ETF Proposal

• BlackRock filed updates to ETHA and IBIT, introducing in-kind creation and highlighting quantum risks to Bitcoin.
• The firm proposed staking in Ethereum ETFs and launched DLT Shares to bridge blockchain and traditional finance.

BlackRock has filed amendments to two S-1 registration forms for its two crypto ETFs: the iShares Ethereum Trust (ETHA) and the iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT).

In the latest filing for ETHA, BlackRock added a new option for the creation and redemption of ETF shares that can be done in-kind. This means that instead of using cash, they want to do this process directly with ETH. Of course, this still needs the green light from the SEC and Nasdaq.

Was also an amended filing for the iShares Bitcoin ETF — $IBIT. It already had similar in-kind like above language added in early February

But one change was a bunch of new language added regarding the risks from Quantum computing. First image is new paragraph. 2nd is old pic.twitter.com/VJszHFtcRi

— James Seyffart (@JSeyff) May 9, 2025

BlackRock Pushes for Faster ETH ETF, Flags Bitcoin Risk

If approved, this approach could be an uplifting moment for institutional investors who prefer efficiency and low costs. Just imagine if buying an ETF could be exchanged directly with ETH—the process would be faster, more economical, and less complicated in terms of liquidity.

On the other hand, BlackRock also added a rather frown-inducing update to the IBIT document. They inserted a new explanation about the threat of quantum computing to Bitcoin’s cryptographic algorithm. The point is, if this technology develops faster than expected, it is not impossible that Bitcoin’s security could be compromised.

Institutions Eye Bigger Role in Crypto With Bold New Proposals

BlackRock also recently sat down with the SEC’s Crypto Task Force. Topics ranged from staking, tokenization, to ETF derivatives. In the meeting, they proposed that staking could be included in an Ethereum ETF as a way to provide higher returns for investors.

Furthermore, they also floated the idea of ​​issuing real asset-based tokens. The goal is simple but ambitious: to expand access and liquidity of assets among large investors.

And that’s not all. CNF reports that BlackRock has also proposed launching DLT Shares from their $150 billion portfolio. The minimum value for initial investment is set at $3 million, specifically for institutions, and thereafter is free with no additional minimum limits. It can be said that they are building a bridge between the traditional financial system and the blockchain world.

Since early April 2025, their Bitcoin ETF (IBIT) has recorded 16 consecutive days of inflows, totaling $4.7 billion. This figure is not only high, but also signals that institutional interest in Bitcoin is exploding.

Eric Balchunas, an analyst from Bloomberg, said that this trend could make Bitcoin ETFs overtake gold ETFs within a few years. This opinion is not without basis, especially considering BlackRock’s steps in the first week of May. They bought $2.5 billion worth of Bitcoin in just 7 days.

Larry Fink, the company CEO, even stated in his yearly letter that Bitcoin might one day be the reserve money. He claims that should the national debt be uncontrolled by the US government, the dollar’s standing may be in jeopardy and Bitcoin will probably take over.