ProShares launches GENIUS-compliant money market ETF for stablecoin issuers

ProShares has launched a new money market exchange-traded fund designed to help stablecoin issuers manage regulatory-compliant reserves backed by short-term U.S. Treasuries.

The company said in a Feb. 19 statement that the ProShares GENIUS Money Market ETF, trading under the ticker IQMM, is built to meet reserve rules under the GENIUS Act. The fund invests only in short-term U.S. Treasury securities and is designed to serve as a low-risk cash management option.

ProShares described IQMM as a conservative product for institutions, financial advisers, and individual investors. A key target group is companies that issue dollar-backed stablecoins and need compliant ways to manage large reserve balances.

Focus on stablecoin reserve management

IQMM holds only short-term government-backed securities, including Treasury bills and related instruments. This structure allows the fund to qualify as eligible backing for payment stablecoins.

Under current U.S. rules, stablecoin issuers must maintain one-to-one reserves in safe and liquid assets. These requirements have increased demand for products that combine regulatory compliance with operational flexibility.

The ETF allows investors to trade throughout the day and settle transactions on the same day. Weekly income distributions are planned, giving holders a steady return on idle funds.

IQMM also uses a floating net asset value and dual NAV options. These features are intended to help institutions move large cash positions without disrupting daily operations.

ProShares said the fund carries a net expense ratio of 0.15%. While retail investors can access the product, the main focus remains on firms managing large reserve pools. Industry estimates suggest stablecoin issuers held more than $150 billion in U.S. Treasuries by late 2025.

“We believe that IQMM will be an attractive cash management alternative for institutional investors, including stablecoin treasuries,” said ProShares chief executive Michael L. Sapir.

Traditional finance deepens its crypto ties

The launch reflects closer links between traditional asset managers and the digital asset industry, as regulators demand higher standards for stablecoin backing.

With IQMM, ProShares is offering a ready-made option for companies that prefer not to manage Treasury portfolios on their own. The ETF structure allows issuers to meet reserve rules while relying on familiar market infrastructure.

Analysts say such products could make compliance easier for crypto firms entering more regulated environments. Instead of building internal treasury operations, issuers can place reserves in approved funds with clear reporting and oversight.

Some market observers, however, note that heavy redemptions during periods of stress could put pressure on money market ETFs tied to stablecoin activity. Managing liquidity during volatile conditions will remain an important test.

ProShares manages more than $95 billion across its ETF and mutual fund platforms. In recent years, the firm has expanded into crypto-linked, income-focused, and tactical investment strategies.