On November 12, Bitwise Asset Management announced the launch of the world's first exchange-traded product (ETP) focused on staking Aptos network's native token, under the ticker 'APTB', on the SIX Swiss Exchange. This new product aims to provide a net return of approximately 4.7% annually and will be extended to other European exchanges.
The ETP’s Staking Model and Investor Benefits
Staking allows token holders to earn rewards by helping validate transactions on Proof of Stake (PoS) networks like Aptos. Staking returns come in the form of additional tokens. With Bitwise's ETP structure, investors can indirectly stake their holdings through a secure and regulated framework, bypassing the technical complexities.
Major Milestone for Aptos on a Regulated Market
The Bitwise Aptos Staking ETP opens regulated market access to both retail and institutional investors. Since its launch in 2022, Aptos has gained popularity rapidly, with over 8 million monthly active users and partnerships with major companies like Microsoft, Amazon, and Mastercard.
Potential Shift in Staking Regulations in the U.S.
With recent regulatory developments in the U.S., like the approval of Bitcoin and Ethereum spot ETPs, the crypto community is watching closely to see if staking-based products will be allowed in the U.S. While such products are currently allowed in Europe, offering a range of opportunities for investors.
The launch of Bitwise's Aptos Staking ETP marks a significant step towards expanding access to advanced blockchain technologies. Future regulatory changes may present new avenues for such products in the U.S.
