Valour Unveils Hedera Staking ETP on Euronext Amsterdam, Expanding Crypto Investment Access

In a strategic move to bridge the gap between traditional finance and decentralized technologies, Valour, the asset management arm of DeFi Technologies, has launched the 1Valour Hedera Physical Staking Exchange-Traded Product (ETP) on the Euronext Amsterdam. This marks a significant step in expanding Hedera-based investment products for European investors.

The launch, announced on December 18, underscores Valour's growing presence in the crypto-financial landscape, with the ETP offering direct exposure to Hedera's HBAR token while incorporating staking benefits for investors.

A Collaborative Effort with The Hashgraph Group

The Hedera HBAR ETP was developed in collaboration with The Hashgraph Group, a venture capital and technology platform within the Hedera ecosystem. Seed funding of $5 million from The Hashgraph Group has bolstered the product’s entry into the European market.

According to Valour, the HBAR ETP aligns with its broader mission of integrating decentralized technologies into mainstream financial instruments. The physically-backed staking product provides a unique opportunity for investors to gain exposure to Hedera’s ecosystem while earning staking rewards.

The Growing Demand for Crypto ETPs

The launch of the Hedera HBAR ETP reflects the increasing demand for crypto-focused exchange-traded products in global markets. Recent data shows that ETP inflows have surpassed $44.5 billion year-to-date, driven by heightened interest in digital assets.

Major products like BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust have recorded substantial inflows, indicating a strong appetite for spot exchange-traded funds. Valour's addition of the Hedera HBAR ETP to its portfolio taps into this demand, providing diversified investment options for crypto enthusiasts and institutional investors alike.

Expanding Valour’s ETP Portfolio

Valour's latest product follows the company’s launch of other innovative ETPs:

• In September 2024, Valour introduced its physically-backed Ethereum staking ETP on the London Stock Exchange, allowing investors to earn staking rewards while holding Ethereum-backed securities.
• In July 2024, the company debuted a NEAR Protocol ETP, further diversifying its offerings in the decentralized finance space.

The Hedera HBAR staking ETP is particularly noteworthy as the first product listed on the pan-European Euronext exchange under Valour Digital Securities Limited’s base prospectus.

The Strategic Importance of Hedera

Hedera, a proof-of-stake blockchain network, has cemented its position as a major player in the cryptocurrency market. As of now, Hedera ranks as the 21st largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, valued at over $11.4 billion.

The network’s growth has been fueled by an increase in the total value locked (TVL) on its platform and significant ecosystem developments. The Hedera governing council, which oversees the platform, has expanded to 33 members, including industry giants such as Deutsche Telekom, Google, Abrdn, IBM, and Standard Bank.

The HBAR token has also experienced a notable price surge, driven by broader market momentum and strategic product launches.

Valour’s Vision for Crypto Investment

Olivier Roussy Newton, CEO of DeFi Technologies, emphasized the significance of the Hedera HBAR ETP launch, calling it a milestone in making blockchain-based investments accessible to traditional markets.

“Our mission is to provide investors with seamless access to innovative digital assets through products that are both secure and compliant,” Newton said.

By bringing Hedera’s staking capabilities to the Euronext Amsterdam, Valour is not only broadening the scope of crypto investment opportunities but also reinforcing the potential of decentralized finance (DeFi) as a cornerstone of the global financial ecosystem.

The Broader Impact on European Crypto Markets

Valour's foray into Hedera staking reflects a growing trend among European asset managers to embrace blockchain technology. With ETPs offering a regulated pathway for investors to participate in decentralized finance, the move is likely to spur further innovation and adoption across the continent.

As Hedera’s ecosystem continues to mature, supported by strong institutional backing and technological advancements, products like the HBAR staking ETP will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of crypto investment.

This launch reaffirms Valour’s commitment to being at the forefront of financial innovation, bridging the worlds of traditional finance and blockchain technology.