Grayscale’s AVAX ETF enters the final lap – But can it beat VanEck, Bitwise?

The race for the first Avalanche spot ETF in the U.S. is entering its final technical lap.

Grayscale Investments has officially filed a second amendment to its S-1 registration statement with the SEC, refining the mechanics for converting its existing Avalanche Trust into a flagship spot ETF.

By moving to finalize “in-kind” creation and redemption models and updating its sponsor structure, Grayscale is signaling that it is no longer just “proposing” a product but is preparing for a Nasdaq debut under the ticker GAVX.

Grayscale’s updated S-1 for Avalanche ETF

This structural shift is critical as it allows authorized participants to exchange Avalance [AVAX] tokens directly for ETF shares, aiming for greater tax efficiency and tighter price tracking than cash-only models.

Additionally, the filing consolidates governance by confirming Grayscale Investments Sponsors LLC as the sole sponsor, a move that likely streamlines the Trust’s accountability in direct response to recent SEC feedback.

Yet, despite these technical advances, the issuer remains strategic with its disclosures, leaving management fees, staking costs, and potential fee waivers out of the current document.

What is Grayscale waiting for and why?

This “wait-and-see” approach to pricing comes as the fund prepares for a major transition from its current over-the-counter home under the ticker “AVAXFUN” to a premier listing on Nasdaq under the more professional “GAVX” symbol.

By focusing this update on risk disclosures and refreshed financial data, Grayscale is effectively signaling to regulators that it is ready to treat Avalanche with the same institutional rigor as its flagship Bitcoin and Ethereum products.

This comes at a time when the AVAX token at press time slipped to $12.11, a minor 0.55% dip within a 24-hour window, but this drop seems to be a general cooling across the crypto sector rather than asset-specific weakness.

Other institutions betting in for AVAX ETF

However, in this race, Grayscale is no longer alone.

Bitwise has officially joined the fray with its own S-1 filing, tapping Coinbase as custodian to expand its crypto lineup.

Meanwhile, VanEck has surged ahead with a third amendment, already disclosing a competitive 0.34% management fee and exploring staking rewards.

If approved, these ETFs would push AVAX into traditional brokerage accounts, giving it the liquidity and regulatory credibility needed for true institutional adoption.

Final Thoughts

• This proposed structure could give GAVX tighter price tracking and better tax efficiency.
• Grayscale appears to be watching rivals like VanEck reveal pricing before it locks in its own fee structure.