Morgan Stanley Slashes Crypto ETF Fees to Record Low

Morgan Stanley submitted amended S-1 registration statements to the SEC on June 18, 2026, detailing plans for two spot crypto ETFs: one for Ethereum and another for Solana. Both ETFs are proposed with an annual unitary sponsor fee of 0.14%, marking the lowest fee in the U.S. market for these specific asset classes, according to the filings. This aggressive pricing strategy is positioned to potentially preempt competitor responses in the ongoing crypto ETF fee war.

The proposed ETFs, targeting listing on NYSE Arca, will operate under ticker symbols MSSE for the Ethereum ETF and MSOL for the Solana ETF. The 0.14% fee is inclusive of most ordinary fund operating expenses, with Morgan Stanley absorbing additional costs rather than imposing stacked charges. This simplified fee structure is designed to be highly attractive to investors.

Furthermore, the staking mechanics are a key feature, with a portion of the ETH and SOL holdings to be staked through providers like Figment, Galaxy Infrastructure LLC, and Coinbase Canada. Notably, 95% of all staking rewards generated will be channeled back to the trust, thereby enhancing the net asset value for shareholders. The staking service providers will receive only 5% of the rewards, and Morgan Stanley will not collect additional income from staking beyond its management fee.

These filings represent the second round of amendments for both products, which were initially lodged in January 2026. The June 18 submission is significant as it confirms specific fee details for the first time, following earlier amendments in March and May that outlined structural elements but left the fee blank. This strategic move by Morgan Stanley aims to redefine the competitive landscape for crypto ETFs.