BlackRock, Grayscale Could be Eyeing Goldman Sachs as Bitcoin ETF AP: Report

Goldman Sachs is reportedly in talks to become a key player in Bitcoin ETFs, partnering with BlackRock and Grayscale.
By Kelvin Munene Murithi
Updated July 22, 2025
Goldman Sachs Forecasts AI Growth As Q1 Results Beat Expectations

According to reports, Goldman Sachs is currently discussing becoming a player in the Bitcoin ETF market. This development involves a potential partnership with BlackRock and Grayscale, two of the most influential names in the financial world. Goldman Sachs aims to serve as an “authorized participant” (AP) in these ETFs, pending approval from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Advertisement
Advertisement

Goldman Sachs’s Potential Role in ETF Operations

As an authorized participant, Goldman Sachs would perform a central ETF industry function. This role is crucial for maintaining the alignment of ETF shares with their underlying assets. It involves the creation and redemption of ETF shares, ensuring their market value accurately reflects the value of their assets.

This move would place Goldman Sachs alongside other major finance entities like JPMorgan Chase, Jane Street, and Cantor Fitzgerald. These firms have already announced their participation as APs for various Bitcoin ETFs awaiting SEC approval. The involvement of such significant players signals a growing acceptance and interest in cryptocurrency-based financial products among traditional banking institutions.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Adapting to Regulatory Requirements

The entry of big U.S. banks into the cryptocurrency sector has been facilitated by a shift towards a cash-based mechanism for handling Bitcoin-backed ETF shares. This approach is viewed as a key factor in gaining SEC approval. It represents a significant adaptation by traditional financial institutions to meet regulatory standards in the evolving world of cryptocurrency.

The companies Goldman Sachs aims to partner with are not minor players. BlackRock is the world’s largest asset manager, while Grayscale manages the $26 billion Grayscale Bitcoin Trust, the largest Bitcoin investment vehicle to date. Grayscale’s intention to transform its trust into a more accessible ETF format further underscores the growing interest in cryptocurrency investment structures.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Grayscale’s Proactive Steps

Previously, Grayscale, having won a court battle against the SEC, named Jane Street and Virtu Financial as potential APs for its ETF. This move was a proactive step towards transitioning its Bitcoin trust into an ETF, reflecting the company’s commitment to evolving within the regulatory landscape.

As of now, Goldman Sachs has not issued an official statement regarding these discussions. Similarly, BlackRock and Grayscale have opted not to comment on the matter. The financial community eagerly anticipates further developments as these negotiations could mark a significant milestone in integrating cryptocurrency into mainstream financial products.

Read Also: Ethereum Foundation Taps in Asia for Devcon 7 as Region Records High Crypto Adoption

Advertisement
Kelvin Munene Murithi
Kelvin Munene is a crypto and finance journalist with over 5 years of experience, offering in-depth market analysis and expert commentary . With a Bachelor's degree in Journalism and Actuarial Science from Mount Kenya University, Kelvin is known for his meticulous research and strong writing skills, particularly in cryptocurrency, blockchain, and financial markets. His work has been featured across top industry publications such as Coingape, Cryptobasic, MetaNews, Cryptotimes, Coinedition, TheCoinrepublic, Cryptotale, and Analytics Insight among others, where he consistently provides timely updates and insightful content. Kelvin’s focus lies in uncovering emerging trends in the crypto space, delivering factual and data-driven analyses that help readers make informed decisions. His expertise extends across market cycles, technological innovations, and regulatory shifts that shape the crypto landscape. Beyond his professional achievements, Kelvin has a passion for chess, traveling, and exploring new adventures.
Why trust CoinGape: CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights to our readers. Our journalists and analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.
Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
Ad Disclosure: This site may feature sponsored content and affiliate links. All advertisements are clearly labeled, and ad partners have no influence over our editorial content.