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Grayscale Enables Staking for Its Spot Ethereum ETFs

By
Paul Ugbede Godwin
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0

Grayscale Investments announced that it has enabled staking for its two spot Ethereum ETFs: the Grayscale Ethereum Trust ETF (ETHE) and the Grayscale Ethereum Mini Trust ETF (ETH).

This marks a significant milestone, making these the first U.S.-listed spot cryptocurrency exchange-traded products (ETPs) to offer staking rewards to investors. ETHE: Provides spot Ether (ETH) exposure; manages approximately $4.82 billion in assets.

ETH: A “mini” version offering similar ETH exposure with lower fees; manages about $3.31 billion in assets. Grayscale will stake a portion of the funds’ ETH holdings passively through institutional custodians and a diversified network of validator providers.

This allows investors to earn network rewards (yields) while maintaining exposure to ETH price movements, without needing to directly hold or manage the assets. Rewards accrue to the funds and are reflected in their net asset value (NAV), benefiting shareholders indirectly.

These ETFs operate under the Securities Act of 1933 (not the Investment Company Act of 1940), similar to spot Bitcoin and ETH ETFs approved earlier. The move follows a proposal filed earlier in 2025 by the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on Grayscale’s behalf to the SEC for staking in Ethereum ETFs.

No additional SEC approval was required for this activation, as it aligns with existing structures. Grayscale also enabled staking for its Grayscale Solana Trust (GSOL), which holds spot Solana (SOL) and is pending SEC approval to uplist as an ETF—potentially making it one of the first spot Solana ETPs with staking.

CEO Peter Mintzberg described this as “first-mover innovation,” positioning Grayscale to capture institutional capital by unlocking yield-driven participation in proof-of-stake networks like Ethereum. Analysts, such as Markus Thielen from 10x Research, predict this could drive significant new inflows into Ethereum, with spot crypto ETFs already seeing record $5.95 billion in weekly inflows.

Staking is a core mechanism in Ethereum’s proof-of-stake consensus, where participants lock up ETH to validate transactions and secure the network in exchange for rewards typically 3-5% APY, depending on network conditions. Prior to this, U.S. investors in spot ETH ETFs couldn’t access these yields directly.

This update bridges traditional finance with blockchain economics, potentially boosting ETH’s attractiveness amid rising institutional adoption. However, investments in these ETFs carry risks, including volatility, slashing penalties for validators, and no direct ownership of the underlying ETH.

Staking allows investors to earn passive income typically 3-5% APY from Ethereum’s proof-of-stake rewards, in addition to potential price appreciation of ETH. This makes these ETFs more attractive compared to non-staking crypto ETPs or traditional assets with lower yields.

By offering staking rewards, Grayscale’s ETFs may draw more capital from investors seeking both exposure to ETH’s price and additional returns, especially in a low-yield environment for traditional assets.

Staking in a regulated ETF structure provides a familiar, accessible vehicle for institutional investors (e.g., pension funds, wealth managers) to participate in Ethereum’s blockchain economics without managing private keys or validators.

The ability to stake could drive significant inflows into Ethereum ETFs, as seen with the reported $5.95 billion in weekly inflows for spot crypto ETFs. This could further legitimize Ethereum as an institutional-grade asset.

Increased demand for ETH through ETF investments may provide upward pressure on ETH’s price, especially if staking reduces liquid supply as staked ETH is locked. More ETH staked via institutional custodians strengthens Ethereum’s proof-of-stake network, enhancing its security and decentralization, as Grayscale uses a diversified validator network.

Staking rewards could make ETH more appealing compared to other cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, which lacks staking, potentially shifting capital allocation. The fact that no additional SEC approval was needed suggests staking is viewed as compatible with existing ETF frameworks under the Securities Act of 1933.

This could pave the way for other issuers like BlackRock, Fidelity to enable staking in their ETH ETFs. Grayscale’s move, including its Solana Trust (GSOL), sets a precedent for staking in other proof-of-stake cryptocurrencies if they gain spot ETF approval, expanding the scope of crypto ETPs.

While staking offers rewards, ETH’s price volatility and potential slashing penalties for validator errors introduce risks that could affect ETF NAV and investor returns. Investors in these ETFs don’t directly control staked ETH or rewards, which may deter those preferring self-custody or direct staking for higher control and potentially higher yields.

Staking rewards may be treated as income by the IRS, complicating tax reporting for ETF investors compared to direct crypto holders. Grayscale’s first-mover advantage in staking could pressure competitors to add similar features to their ETH ETFs or risk losing market share. This may accelerate innovation in the crypto ETF space.

Staking in ETFs normalizes blockchain-native features for traditional investors, potentially increasing public awareness and acceptance of crypto as a legitimate asset class. Success here could encourage issuers to push for ETFs tied to other staking-enabled cryptocurrencies, expanding the range of crypto investment products.

Grayscale’s introduction of staking for its Ethereum ETFs is a game-changer, blending traditional finance with blockchain rewards to attract both retail and institutional investors. It could drive significant capital into Ethereum, enhance its network, and set a precedent for other crypto ETPs.

However, risks like volatility, regulatory scrutiny, and indirect ownership may temper enthusiasm for some investors. This move positions Grayscale as a leader in crypto ETF innovation and could reshape the competitive landscape for digital assets in the U.S.

Solana Price & Hyperliquid Forecast Lag While BlockDAG New Bonus Offer CLAIM Just Shifted the Entire Crypto Game Plan

By
TI Partners
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0

The Solana (SOL) price outlook has improved as rising developer activity and trading demand push SOL toward new highs. At the same time, the Hyperliquid (HYPE) price forecast shows increasing momentum as open interest and staking balances rebound. Both assets are gaining traction in investor discussions, but their volatility leaves questions about which could be considered the top crypto coins right now.

BlockDAG, however, offers a clearer picture of adoption. Its presale has raised $420 million. Currently, users can get BDAG at a $0.0015 coin price using the code CLAIM. Nearly 27 billion coins sold in 31 Batches. Alongside 20,000 miners shipped, 312,000 holders, 3 million X1 app users, and 20 confirmed listings, plus its BWT Alpine Formula 1® Team partnership and CLAIM bonus, BlockDAG stands as one of the top crypto coins right now.

Solana Tries to Regain Its Winning Speed

The Solana (SOL) price outlook reflects renewed optimism, with SOL breaking through resistance levels as demand for scalable blockchains grows. Its fast transaction speeds and vibrant DeFi activity continue to attract attention, putting it in the conversation for the top crypto coins right now.

Even so, the Solana (SOL) price outlook shows caution. Network outages have previously shaken investor trust, and concerns remain about whether Solana can sustain reliability. While momentum is strong, these risks mean some remain hesitant about long-term commitments.

Overall, the Solana (SOL) price outlook highlights both potential and uncertainty. Its rapid growth makes it appealing, but until stability issues are resolved, its ability to maintain a spot among the top crypto coins right now is still uncertain.

Hyperliquid’s Rebound Is Loud but Still Fragile

The Hyperliquid (HYPE) price forecast points to growing demand in decentralised derivatives. Analysts note that rebounds in staking and open interest are positive indicators, suggesting HYPE could challenge higher resistance levels. These developments keep HYPE under review as one of the top crypto coins right now.

However, the Hyperliquid (HYPE) price forecast also points to volatility. Its niche position in derivatives leaves it exposed to sudden swings, and broader adoption outside of trading remains limited. Without stronger utility expansion, upside potential may be capped.

For investors, the Hyperliquid (HYPE) price forecast demonstrates both excitement and caution. While it shows innovation and short-term gains, long-term reliability remains untested. As a result, HYPE remains an interesting but uncertain player in the race for the top crypto coins right now.

BlockDAG Strengthens Adoption with CLAIM Bonus

BlockDAG’s presale performance is unmatched in its category. At a $0.0015 special price in Batch 30 using the code CLAIM, it has raised $420 million and sold nearly 27 billion coins. Adoption continues to accelerate, with 20,000 miners shipped, 312,000 holders, and 3 million active users on the X1 mobile mining app. With 20 confirmed exchange listings, it is already positioned among the top crypto coins right now.

The partnership with the BWT Alpine Formula 1® Team underscores its visibility on the global stage. This collaboration connects blockchain to millions of sports fans worldwide, giving BlockDAG exposure that few projects can replicate. It is a unique differentiator compared to other contenders for the top crypto coins right now.

More than marketing, the Alpine partnership introduces integration. Plans include simulators, interactive blockchain activations, and hackathons. These initiatives turn visibility into tangible adoption and reinforce investor confidence in BlockDAG’s ecosystem.

The CLAIM bonus adds another layer by tying presale rewards directly to Alpine engagement. Combined with CertiK and Halborn audits, these elements create trust, adoption, and global recognition, explaining why BlockDAG has established itself as one of the top crypto coins right now.

Bottom Line

The Solana (SOL) price outlook indicates strength in scalability but remains clouded by stability issues. The Hyperliquid (HYPE) price forecast highlights potential in derivatives but raises concerns about long-term adoption. Both assets attract speculative interest, but they fall short of the clarity that investors demand when considering the top crypto coins right now.

BlockDAG provides that clarity. With $420 million raised, 26.5 billion tokens sold, 20,000 miners shipped, 312,000 holders, 3 million X1 app users, 20 listings, and the BWT Alpine F1® Team partnership, supported by the CLAIM bonus, BlockDAG brings visibility, infrastructure, and trust. For those evaluating the top crypto coins right now, BlockDAG presents the strongest case for leadership.

Presale: https://purchase.blockdag.network

Website: https://blockdag.network

Telegram: https://t.me/blockDAGnetworkOfficial

Discord: https://discord.gg/Q7BxghMVyu

 

Shawbrook’s Planned London IPO Signals Renewed Momentum for UK Mid-Tier Banks

By
Samuel Nwite
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0

Shawbrook Bank is planning an initial public offering in London, a move that could become one of the city’s biggest listings in years and a potential catalyst for other mid-tier lenders weighing public debuts.

In a statement on Monday, the alternative lender said the planned IPO would help boost its profile in Britain and fund its growth ambitions, while allowing its sole shareholder, Marlin Bidco, to sell down part of its stake. Marlin Bidco is a vehicle controlled by private equity firms BC Partners and Pollen Street.

The offering could value Shawbrook at as much as £2 billion ($2.69 billion), according to a source who spoke to Reuters last week. The listing would also mark Shawbrook’s return to public markets after BC Partners and Pollen Street took it private in 2017.

Chief Executive Marcelino Castrillo described the IPO as a milestone for the firm, saying Shawbrook has achieved “real scale” in markets that are “large and growing, supported by attractive tailwinds.” He added, “We also see a significant opportunity to bring Shawbrook’s offering to new types of customers.”

The bank said it plans to sell shares to both retail and institutional investors, targeting a minimum free float of 10%. Shawbrook expects to qualify for inclusion in London’s FTSE indices once listed, which could help attract long-term investors seeking exposure to specialized lenders.

The move follows a period in which Shawbrook’s private equity owners explored potential deals with rival banks, including Metro Bank and Co-op Bank, over the past two years, according to earlier Reuters reports.

After a long stretch of subdued listing activity and anxiety over the health of London’s capital markets, recent weeks have seen signs of revival. LED red light maker Beauty Tech Group was listed last week, while canned tuna producer Princes confirmed its IPO plans.

London regulators and policymakers have been working to revive the city’s listing appeal, overhauling its rules last year in hopes of stemming an exodus of major companies. Still, several firms, including fintech company Wise, have shifted or explored primary listings abroad in search of higher valuations and deeper liquidity.

However, investor appetite for UK financial stocks has been inconsistent, particularly amid questions about loan demand, interest rate stability, and regulatory oversight. The bank will also have to convince investors that its specialist lending model — focused on serving niche sectors underserved by larger banks — can deliver consistent returns in a competitive landscape increasingly influenced by digital disruptors.

Moreover, the timing of the IPO will be crucial for BC Partners and Pollen Street. A successful listing could reignite confidence in London’s ability to host large-scale offerings, but a weak performance may reinforce concerns about subdued valuations and market depth compared to New York or European exchanges.

Market Implications for Other UK Mid-Tier Banks

Shawbrook’s move is expected to serve as a bellwether for Britain’s mid-tier banking sector. Its performance on the public market may influence strategic decisions at other lenders such as Aldermore, Close Brothers, and even challenger banks like Atom and Starling, which have all faced questions about potential listings or capital raises.

Analysts say a strong showing by Shawbrook could signal that investor sentiment toward UK banking IPOs is thawing, encouraging peers to test the market. Some believe that if Shawbrook’s listing is met with robust demand, it could open the floodgates for other specialist lenders looking to tap public capital.

On the other hand, a lukewarm reception could make private equity owners and management teams more cautious. Many of these institutions have delayed or canceled IPO plans over the past two years due to volatile valuations and the higher cost of capital.

However, Shawbrook’s planned return to the stock market represents more than just a single company’s milestone — it is being closely watched as a potential turning point for London’s broader banking and capital market narrative.

World Bank Lifts China’s 2025 Growth Outlook Amid U.S. Tariff Tensions, Citing Strong Export and Policy Support

By
Samuel Nwite
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0

The World Bank on Tuesday raised its 2025 growth forecast for China to 4.8%, up from its April estimate of 4%, signaling renewed optimism for the world’s second-largest economy despite an increasingly turbulent global trade environment fueled by U.S. tariffs.

According to CNBC, the revised outlook brings the projection closer to Beijing’s official target of around 5% GDP growth, marking a partial rebound for China’s economy following a year of mixed signals from the property market, consumer spending, and exports.

The Bank’s economists stopped short of citing a single reason for the upgraded forecast but noted that China has benefited from government stimulus and strong export activity, even as those supports are expected to fade in 2026.

Trade tensions between Beijing and Washington have remained a central risk factor. In April, the U.S. sharply increased tariffs on Chinese imports to over 100%, the highest since the height of the 2018–2019 trade war. The two countries later reached a temporary truce, now set to last until mid-November. Tariffs currently stand at an average of 57.6% — more than double their level at the start of the year — underscoring continued friction in trade relations under President Donald Trump’s protectionist economic agenda.

The Trump administration has repeatedly defended the tariffs as necessary to “rebalance global trade,” but they have also rattled markets and prompted companies across Asia to adjust supply chains. Some American firms, including Apple, had earlier expanded manufacturing operations in India to hedge against the risks of overreliance on China. However, as the tariffs drag on, uncertainty continues to cloud global investment sentiment, weighing on cross-border business flows throughout Asia.

In response, China intensified stimulus measures in late 2024, introducing consumer trade-in programs and supporting industrial production. These policies helped buoy retail and export activity through much of 2025. Exports to Southeast Asia and Europe climbed steadily, offsetting sharp declines in shipments to the United States. Analysts say that part of the export strength also came from companies rushing to fulfill orders ahead of tariff increases.

Still, the World Bank cautioned that the momentum may not last. It projects that China’s GDP growth will slow to 4.2% in 2026 as export gains ease and the government tapers its stimulus to rein in public debt. The country’s real estate sector remains a drag, with investment plunging 12.9% in the first eight months of the year.

Retail sales also showed sluggish recovery, rising just 3.4% year-on-year in August, missing analysts’ expectations. Early data from the eight-day “Golden Week” holiday suggest weak consumer spending. Nomura’s Chief China Economist, Ting Lu, noted that while passenger trips rose 5.4% year-on-year, the pace was much slower than during the May holiday season.

“Actual consumption growth could be even weaker than the data suggest,” Lu said, citing calendar effects and slowing household sentiment.

The World Bank’s report further highlighted China’s structural challenges, including youth unemployment — with one in seven young people jobless — an aging population, and slower productivity growth compared to other major economies. It also noted that Chinese startups generate fewer jobs relative to their U.S. counterparts, largely due to the dominance of state-owned enterprises.

According to the Bank’s estimates, a 1 percentage point decline in China’s GDP can reduce growth in the rest of developing East Asia and the Pacific by 0.3 percentage points. With China’s upgraded projection, the region’s overall growth outlook has been lifted to 4.8% in 2025, up from 4% previously forecast.

Globally, however, the World Bank remains cautious. In June, it lowered its 2025 world growth forecast to 2.3%, citing trade uncertainty and geopolitical tensions, warning that the slowdown would mark the weakest expansion since the 2008 financial crisis outside of global recessions.

China’s near-term prospects may have improved, but with Trump’s tariffs still in place and global trade increasingly fragmented, economists say Beijing faces the daunting task of sustaining growth while rebalancing its economy toward domestic consumption and innovation-driven sectors.

Intercontinental Exchange (ICE) Announces $2 Billion Investment in Polymarket

By
Paul Ugbede Godwin
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0

Intercontinental Exchange Inc. (ICE)—the Atlanta-based global exchange operator and parent company of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE)—revealed a strategic cash investment of up to $2 billion in Polymarket, the leading cryptocurrency-based prediction market platform.

This deal values Polymarket at approximately $8 billion pre-investment or $9 billion post-money, per some reports, potentially giving ICE a stake of up to 25%.

The announcement comes amid surging interest in prediction markets, which have seen billions in trading volume in 2025 alone, particularly around politics, economics, and pop culture events.

The $2 billion is in cash and won’t impact ICE’s 2025 financial results or its capital return plans to shareholders. It’s positioned as a long-term bet on integrating prediction data into institutional finance.

Beyond the funding, ICE will become a global distributor of Polymarket’s event-driven data, providing thousands of financial institutions with real-time sentiment indicators on topics like elections, economic policies, and cultural trends. This could supercharge Polymarket’s credibility and reach.

The collaboration explicitly targets “tokenization initiatives,” blending blockchain with traditional assets to digitize real-world assets (RWAs) like securities or commodities. ICE CEO Jeffrey Sprecher emphasized opportunities in markets where the two companies can “uniquely serve” users, signaling a push toward a tokenized financial future.

ICE shares up ~4% in premarket trading; retail sentiment on platforms like Stocktwits shifted to “extremely bullish”. Polymarket has evolved from a niche DeFi experiment into a powerhouse for crowd-sourced forecasting.

It allows users to buy “shares” in yes/no outcomes (e.g., “Will the US government shut down by December?”), with prices reflecting collective probabilities—often outperforming traditional polls.

In 2022, the CFTC fined Polymarket $1.4 million and forced it offshore for operating unregistered derivatives markets accessible to US users. A federal probe including an FBI raid on Coplan’s home in late 2024 was dropped in July 2025 after exemptions.

Earlier this year, Polymarket acquired QCEX a licensed US derivatives exchange and clearinghouse for $112 million, paving the way for a compliant relaunch. It also snagged backing from high-profile investors like Peter Thiel’s Founders Fund, Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin, and—more recently—1789 Capital backed by Donald Trump Jr.

Polymarket handled $9 billion in trading volume in 2024, with 2025 markets buzzing on everything from Taylor Swift streams to crypto price swings. Coplan celebrated the deal in a lengthy X post, calling it a “monumental step forward for DeFi” and crediting his team’s persistence: “From a write-off to creating a category… nothing is more valuable than the truth.”

He highlighted ICE’s founder-led ethos under Sprecher as a perfect match for tokenization ambitions. This isn’t just a big check—it’s a bridge between Wall Street’s gatekeepers and crypto’s disruptors.

Prediction markets like Polymarket aggregate information efficiently, potentially revolutionizing how institutions price risks. The tokenization angle could accelerate RWAs, making illiquid assets like real estate or art tradable on blockchains, with ICE’s infrastructure providing the regulatory moat.

However, risks linger: Prediction platforms face ongoing CFTC scrutiny over derivatives classification, and tokenization’s promise hinges on clearer US regs. Critics worry about investor protection in volatile, crowd-driven bets.

Overall, this validates Polymarket’s model and positions ICE as a TradFi-crypto hybrid leader. As Coplan put it: “The best is yet to come.” If you’re trading ICE or eyeing DeFi, this could spark short-term volatility.

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