- CME Group plans to launch options on ether futures on September 12.
- CME Group’s existing suite of cryptocurrency options contracts includes Bitcoin options, micro-sized Bitcoin, and Ether options.
- The launch is planned right ahead of Ethereum’s software upgrade called “the Merge.”
Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) Group, one of the world’s largest futures exchange operators, recently announced in its official press release that it plans to launch options on ether (ETH) futures on September 12. The decision is subject to pending regulatory approvals from the concerned authorities.
These new contracts are expected to expand CME Group’s existing suite of cryptocurrency options contracts, which include Bitcoin options, as well as micro-sized Bitcoin, and Ether options.
Looking for a new opportunity to add the flexibility of options to your cryptocurrency portfolio? Meet CME Group’s Ether options, launching Sept. 12. https://t.co/yHc3s6oL9h pic.twitter.com/wlKTGNyE5K
— CME Group (@CMEGroup) August 18, 2022
CME proclaimed that the new contracts would be sized at 50 ETH per contract, based on the CME CF Ether-Dollar Reference Rate.
The company already offers bitcoin options as well as micro-sized bitcoin and ether options. Options on micro-bitcoin and ether futures are sized at one-tenth of one bitcoin or one ether, respectively.
The launch is planned right ahead of Ethereum’s highly-anticipated software upgrade called “the Merge,” which is scheduled to take place on September 15. The upgrade will enable Ethereum to transition from a proof-of-work model to a proof-of-stake mechanism, potentially making the blockchain network faster, more scalable, and energy-efficient, according to the Ethereum Foundation.
Tim McCourt, global head of Equity and FX Products, CME Group quoted:
As we approach the highly anticipated Ethereum Merge next month, we continue to see market participants turn to CME Group to manage ether price risk. Our new Ether options will offer a wide array of clients greater flexibility and added precision to manage their ether exposure ahead of market moving events.
CME Group’s standard- and micro-sized Ether futures contracts have experienced tremendous growth and aim to provide consistent liquidity, volume, and open interest for its clients.
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