CME Group to Launch Options on Bitcoin Friday Futures in February

CME Group, the world’s top derivatives marketplace, will introduce options on Bitcoin Friday futures on February 24, pending regulatory approval. These financially-settled options will offer expirations every business day, enhancing traders’ flexibility in managing short-term Bitcoin price risk.

Giovanni Vicioso, CME Group’s Global Head of Cryptocurrency Products, emphasized the benefits of these contracts, highlighting their capital efficiency and daily expirations. The new options complement CME’s existing lineup of Bitcoin and Ether futures, adding more precision for risk management.

Market leaders see this as a major step. Joshua Lim, FalconX’s Global Co-head of Markets, noted that increased trading catalysts make these contracts valuable for hedging Bitcoin exposure. Jason Urban, Global Head of Trading at Galaxy, praised their cost-effectiveness and adaptability for managing volatility.

Since launching on September 29, Bitcoin Friday futures have seen over 775,000 contracts traded, with an average daily volume of 9,700. Nearly half of trades occur outside U.S. hours, showcasing global demand.

CME Group continues to expand its cryptocurrency derivatives offerings, reinforcing its position as the leading marketplace for risk management solutions.