On May 9, 2025, BlackRock met with the SEC’s Crypto Task Force to address concerns about the future of digital assets. Discussion centered around staking, tokenization, and crypto exchange-traded fund (ETF) approval, with increased institutional demand for clearer regulations and additional investment opportunities.
BlackRock oversees over $50 billion in crypto assets, including investments such as the iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) and Ethereum Trust (ETHA) ETFs. During Q1 of this year, these crypto ETFs gained $3 billion in inflows, indicating interest even with market downturns. BlackRock also takes the lead in tokenized funds; They envision integrating traditional finance with blockchain technology. Its crypto holdings are an indicator of institutional investors’ trust.
BlackRock & SEC Crypto Talks
BlackRock’s session with the SEC today focused on staking. The company is asking for clearer regulations regarding staking rewards under securities legislation. They would like staking to be incorporated into their Ethereum ETFs so they can provide higher yields to investors, making their products more competitive and enticing.
Tokenization was also one of the prominent areas. BlackRock talked about creating tokens backed by real assets. BlackRock plans to explore regulatory avenues for tokenization to protect investors. Tokenization could unlock liquidity and make assets accessible to a broader audience.
The meeting also touched upon approval standards for ETFs. BlackRock and the SEC considered standards such as liquidity needs and trading limits. The two considered options trading on crypto ETFs, in light of the SEC’s recent approvals for Ethereum options.
BlackRock’s highest-ranking officials in digitization and regulatory affairs headed the negotiations, which shows the company’s robust efforts to expand crypto offerings under clearer regulations.
Expanded Regulatory Context and Its Impact on the Market
Since April 21, 2025, the SEC has been under pressure with more than 70 crypto ETF applications. Although Chair Paul Atkins favors broadening crypto product approvals, he remains cautious to ensure regulations are thoroughly assessed.
Recent SEC approvals, including options trading of spot Ethereum ETFs such as BlackRock’s, are promising steps towards further market accessibility.
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