New ETFs Tap Crypto Craze For Income: GraniteShares Rolls Out Ether, Circle Funds

GraniteShares is expanding its push into income-focused thematic ETFs with the launch of two new YieldBOOST strategies tied to crypto and fintech. The GraniteShares YieldBOOST CRCL ETF (NASDAQ:CRY) and GraniteShares YieldBOOST Ether ETF (NASDAQ:XEY) began trading today, offering investors a way to tap income opportunities linked to Circle Internet Group and Ether without directly holding the underlying assets.

Key features of the new ETFs:

• Income-first strategy: Both CRY and XEY use options (primarily selling puts) to generate income rather than relying on price appreciation
• Thematic exposure: CRY is linked to Circle Internet Group, while XEY tracks income opportunities tied to Ether and the broader Ethereum ecosystem
• Alternative to direct ownership: Designed for investors seeking income exposure without holding the underlying stock or digital asset
• Active management: Part of the actively managed YieldBOOST suite focused on high-conviction, income-oriented strategies
• Growing platform: The broader YieldBOOST lineup has surpassed $435 million in assets, signaling increasing demand for options-based ETF income strategies

The launch comes as demand grows for yield-generating strategies in both equities and digital assets. GraniteShares' YieldBOOST lineup, which has grown to over $435 million in assets as of April 24, uses options-based strategies—primarily selling put options—to generate income. CEO Will Rhind said the new funds aim to meet rising investor interest in monetizing volatility across high-profile themes, particularly in blockchain infrastructure and crypto markets.

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