SEC’s Crypto Maverick Peirce Champions In-Kind Redemptions for Bitcoin ETFs—Will the Bureaucrats Listen?

In a move that’s got Wall Street and crypto natives buzzing, SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce is doubling down on her push for in-kind redemptions in Bitcoin ETFs. Known as ‘Crypto Mom’ for her pro-innovation stance, Peirce argues this could slash costs and complexity—while the SEC’s usual foot-dragging continues.

Why it matters: In-kind redemptions let investors get actual bitcoin instead of cash, avoiding taxable events and brokerage middlemen. Peirce’s proposal could finally bridge the gap between TradFi’s paper promises and crypto’s ‘verify, don’t trust’ ethos. Of course, the SEC will probably form another committee to study it until Bitcoin hits $200K.

The bottom line: When even regulators admit the current system’s broken, you know it’s bad. Peirce’s play might just force the issue—assuming the SEC doesn’t ‘accidentally’ lose the paperwork.

In a recent interview, SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce revealed that the agency is open to reconsidering in-kind redemptions for Bitcoin ETFs. This could be a game-changer for crypto investors, offering smoother processes and important tax benefits.

Peirce, who’s well-known for her pro-crypto views, explained that letting investors redeem ETF shares for actual bitcoin instead of cash would make the whole system more efficient and less costly when it comes to taxes.

Why In-Kind Redemptions Are Important

In-kind redemptions have been a frequent topic among investors and ETF providers. Peirce said this is something the SEC plans to address sooner rather than later.

During a Coinage Media interview, she pointed out that allowing ETF issuers to create products that best serve investors – and reduce operational challenges – is key.

“How can you let people design products in a way that’s most helpful for investors in those products?” Peirce asked, hinting at a shift toward investor-driven innovation. 

Her comments quickly caught the attention of the crypto community, especially on social media where industry insiders praised her openness.

The Issues with Cash Redemptions

Right now, Bitcoin ETFs use a cash redemption model. This means ETF issuers have to sell Bitcoin on the market to pay investors who redeem shares. This often triggers taxable events and adds extra costs.

Peirce supports switching to in-kind redemptions to fix these problems. This model allows authorized participants to swap ETF shares directly for Bitcoin, making the process simpler and more tax-efficient.

Big players like BlackRock and ARK Invest have already proposed such changes. Earlier this year, BlackRock filed a proposal with Nasdaq to allow in-kind redemptions for its iShares Bitcoin Trust. Analysts see this as a smart MOVE to cut tax burdens and ease operations.

SEC’s Regulatory Challenge

Peirce’s remarks come at a time when the SEC is still cautious about crypto regulation. Even though the agency approved spot Bitcoin ETFs in early 2024, it has pushed for cash redemptions, frustrating many investors.

Her recent comments, made during a PubKey event and noted by crypto commentator Frank Corva, show a regulator willing to listen and rethink strict rules.

This could point to a more flexible approach from the SEC – one that balances investor protection with room for innovation.

What This Means for Investors and the Bitcoin ETF Market

Allowing in-kind redemptions could make Bitcoin ETFs more attractive by improving after-tax returns and lowering costs.

Peirce’s insights suggest the SEC might soon back changes that make ETFs easier and better for investors, potentially reshaping the market for good.

With major firms already pushing for these reforms, we may be on the brink of a new phase of Bitcoin ETF innovation driven by closer cooperation between the industry and regulators