Morgan Stanley Files for Bitcoin ETF, Solana, Ethereum Products, Eyeing Staking Feature

Morgan Stanley has filed for a suite of crypto-linked exchange-traded funds (ETFs) with the U.S. SEC. This significant expansion, featuring a Bitcoin ETF, Solana, and Ethereum products with staking, underscores rising institutional interest in digital assets. On January 6, 2026, Morgan Stanley submitted applications to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for spot Bitcoin and Solana Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs). The next day, January 7, additional filings included an Ethereum trust and a spot Ethereum ETF incorporating staking. This aggressive move by a prominent Wall Street institution is expected to further legitimize digital assets and attract substantial institutional capital. It aligns with broader market trends, including recent institutional crypto inflows totaling $1.16 billion over two days, and $695 million specifically into Bitcoin ETFs. Why this matters now: These proposed ETFs, if approved, would offer traditional investors diversified access to leading cryptocurrencies through regulated investment vehicles. Previously perceived by some as cautious in the crypto space, Morgan Stanley's filings now position it as a major player. This mirrors a growing Wall Street trend where firms integrate cryptocurrencies into their offerings, driven by client demand and evolving regulatory clarity. The SEC's review and approval processes for such products remain a critical hurdle. Analysts suggest these filings signal robust corporate confidence in the crypto sector's long-term viability and growth potential. This endorsement could accelerate institutional adoption and capital allocation, with the staking feature for Ethereum particularly appealing to yield-seeking investors. This strategic shift reflects broader industry trends and future market expectations. The applications for these spot Bitcoin, Solana, and Ethereum ETFs, alongside the Ethereum trust, are now pending SEC review. Market participants will closely monitor the regulatory body's decisions for these and other potential Bitcoin ETF offerings. Approval could pave the way for more traditional financial institutions to launch similar products. Morgan Stanley's extensive push into diverse crypto-linked ETFs represents a landmark development, reinforcing the mainstreaming of cryptocurrencies. This strategic pivot sets a new precedent for institutional engagement in the evolving digital economy, signaling continued growth in accessible digital asset investment products.