Solana Futures ETFs Set to Launch, Paving the Way for Spot Approval

Two exchange-traded funds (ETFs) tracking Solana (SOL) futures are launching on Thursday, marking a significant step in the evolution of crypto investment products. Volatility Shares LLC is introducing the Volatility Shares Solana ETF (SOLZ), which tracks Solana futures, and the Volatility Shares 2X Solana ETF (SOLT), offering leveraged exposure.

According to a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), SOLZ will have a 0.95% management fee, while SOLT traders will pay 1.85%. These will be the first-ever ETFs tied to Solana futures. With a market cap of $66.5 billion, Solana is currently the sixth-largest cryptocurrency, and its price has surged 6% in the past 24 hours, mirroring broader market gains.

The introduction of Solana futures ETFs could play a crucial role in securing SEC approval for a spot Solana ETF. Historically, the SEC has preferred an established futures market before approving spot crypto products. Following the success of spot Bitcoin (BTC) and Ether (ETH) ETFs, several asset managers, including Grayscale, Franklin Templeton, and VanEck, have filed for spot Solana ETFs. Bloomberg Intelligence analysts estimate a 75% likelihood of approval by the end of 2025.

However, regulatory decisions may hinge on leadership changes at the SEC. A ruling is unlikely before Paul Atkins, nominated by former President Donald Trump to lead the agency, is confirmed by the Senate. As of now, no confirmation hearing has been scheduled.

With growing institutional interest and expanding crypto investment options, the launch of these ETFs could mark a turning point for Solana’s integration into traditional finance.