VanEck Registers Lido Staked Ethereum ETF in Delaware Amid Market Optimism

VanEck has filed to register the VanEck Lido Staked Ethereum ETF in Delaware, aiming to offer investors regulated exposure to Ethereum staking yields via Lido's liquid staking protocol. This ETF would provide access to staking rewards of approximately 4% annually without requiring investors to operate validators or lock their assets, appealing to both institutional and retail investors. The filing has sparked a significant market reaction, with Lido's token (LDO) price rising about 7% and trading volumes surging, reflecting increased optimism about liquid staking products. While the Delaware statutory trust registration is a preparatory step, formal approval by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission is still pending, amid regulatory caution toward crypto-linked ETFs. VanEck's move signifies a strategic expansion beyond spot Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs into yield-generating products, potentially broadening Ethereum staking participation through compliant investment vehicles. Lido, as the dominant liquid staking provider holding over 30% of staked ETH, stands to benefit from increased demand if the ETF is approved, although regulatory and competitive risks remain.