Trump-Linked Crypto Firm Transfers $33M in Ether, Boosting ETF Staking Hopes.

Trump-Affiliated Crypto Platform Stakes $33M in Ether, Sparking Hope for Staking ETFs

Sentiment around Ethereum’s ether (ETH) may be set for a turnaround after World Liberty Financial (WLFI), a crypto platform linked to the Trump family, made a high-profile move into staking. WLFI deposited 10,000 ETH—valued at $33 million—into Lido Finance (LDO), the largest Ethereum staking platform, as shown by Arkham Intelligence data. Lido manages over $31 billion in staked assets, solidifying its position as a leader in the space.

This follows WLFI’s recent purchase of $110 million in digital assets, including ETH, wrapped bitcoin (wBTC), Tron’s TRX, AAVE, LINK, and Ethena’s ENA, further demonstrating the platform’s active involvement in the crypto market.

The move has reignited speculation that U.S. regulators, under the leadership of SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce, may approve staking-enabled spot ETH ETFs. Peirce, who now heads the SEC’s crypto task force, recently stated in a Coinage interview that she is open to exploring staking options for ETFs. This marks a shift from former SEC Chair Gary Gensler, who was known for his crypto skepticism before stepping down on January 20, the day Donald Trump took office.

Approval of staking ETFs could significantly boost the appeal of ETH-based investment products by offering investors the ability to earn staking rewards while holding ETF shares. U.S.-listed spot ETH ETFs currently hold $12 billion in assets, according to SoSoValue.

Such regulatory developments could have a ripple effect on ETH’s price and related ecosystem tokens like Lido’s LDO, which could benefit from increased staking activity. Ethereum has faced headwinds recently, with its price hitting a 4-year low against Bitcoin (BTC) and losing ground to competitors like Solana. Leadership challenges and concerns over the network’s roadmap have further dampened sentiment.

Still, some analysts remain bullish. “ETH sentiment will reverse quickly once staking ETFs are approved,” crypto trader Pentoshi noted on social media. “I’m not long on ETH for the long haul, but the hype around staking ETFs will drive a sharp rally.”

Similarly, Alex Krüger, partner at Asgard Markets, predicted a significant price surge for ETH tied to staking ETF news. “Expect a multi-week rally around ETF approval in 2025,” Krüger wrote on X. “That’s the moment to rotate into faster-growing assets if you’re heavily exposed to ETH.”

With WLFI’s bold staking play and potential regulatory approval on the horizon, Ethereum may see renewed investor interest and momentum, setting the stage for a significant price rebound.