Asset management giant BlackRock is poised to introduce its ethereum exchange-traded fund (ETF) on the Brazilian stock exchange through Brazilian depositary receipts (BDR). BDRs represent shares of foreign companies traded in Brazil, offering investors exposure to global assets within their local market.
The ETF, scheduled to launch in Brazil this Wednesday, follows the recent debut of BlackRock's iShares ethereum Trust (ETHA) ETF in the United States. According to a report by local media outlet Portal do bitcoin, the ethereum ETF will be identified by the ticker ETHA39 and will be traded on the B3 exchange.
In a strategic move to cater to Brazilian investors, BlackRock had previously launched its iShares bitcoin Trust ETF (IBIT) in Brazil earlier this year. Trading under the ticker IBIT39, the bitcoin ETF started with a competitive fee of 0.12% for the first year to attract investors seeking exposure to the leading cryptocurrency.
The introduction of the ETHA39 product in the Brazilian market is expected to offer investors an opportunity to access two of the largest cryptocurrencies by market capitalization. Nicolas Gomez, head of ETFs at BlackRock for Latin America, emphasized the significance of providing diversified investment options that align with market trends and investor demand.
Brazil Sets Precedent with Solana ETFs as BlackRock Stays Neutral
While Brazil has recently approved multiple Solana-based ETF products, BlackRock has not expressed immediate interest in venturing into the Solana ETF space. The country's Securities and Exchange Commission (CVM) endorsed Solana ETF offerings from asset managers QR Asset and Hashdex in August.
On the contrary, BlackRock remains cautious about introducing a Solana ETF in the foreseeable future. Samara Cohen, the Chief Investment Officer of ETF and index investments at BlackRock, stated in a recent interview with Bloomberg that the firm is evaluating the investability and market demand for potential ETF products.
“For us, right now, both between investability considerations and also what we hear from our clients, bitcoin and ETH definitely meet that bar. I think it will be a while before we see anything else.”
BlackRock's strategic approach to ETF offerings reflects a commitment to evaluating market dynamics and investor preferences before expanding its product lineup. By focusing on established cryptocurrencies like bitcoin and ethereum that resonate with investors globally, BlackRock aims to provide reliable and diversified investment options in the rapidly evolving digital asset landscape.
