OCC is ‘preparing’ for listing of spot Bitcoin ETF options

As a seasoned crypto investor with a knack for spotting trends and navigating the ever-evolving landscape of digital assets, I must say that the recent announcement by the U.S Options Clearing Corporation (OCC) has sent ripples of excitement through our community. Having weathered multiple bull and bear markets, I’ve learned to read between the lines and interpret regulatory moves like this as green lights for growth.


The United States Options Clearing Corporation has declared they are getting ready for the launch of Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) on spot markets.

On November 18th, OCC announced an update indicating their acceptance of guidance from the Commodity Futures Trading Commission regarding potential Bitcoin (BTC) ETF options approval. This is in line with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s earlier approval for options on BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust, which occurred on September 20th, 2024, and another green light from the Commodity Futures Trading Commission as well.

According to an article published by crypto.news, the Division of Clearing and Risk within the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) released guidelines on November 15 regarding the clearing of options for exchange-traded funds tied to commodities.

OCC’s response related to this CFTC approval of spot Bitcoin ETF options.

According to the guidance received, the Chicago-based clearing house is making preparations for handling, settling, and managing the risks associated with these options.

The news has sparked enthusiasm among cryptocurrency enthusiasts, who have remained optimistic since November 5, following the U.S. election of pro-cryptocurrency candidate Donald Trump as president. Prior to the OCC announcement, the price of Bitcoin was hovering slightly below $90,000, but has since risen above $92,650. At the time of writing, Bitcoin was trading around $91,400.

Optimistic feelings are expected to grow with this progression, especially since there’s a surge in interest for investing in cryptocurrencies. Those aiming to take advantage of the opportunities presented by Bitcoin ETF may not have much time left to wait, according to Eric Balchunas, a senior ETF analyst at Bloomberg.

“That’s a wrap,” Balchunas noted. “Now it’s just a matter of when not if.”

As the ETF specialist explained, the listing procedure usually becomes simple and swift following the OCC’s approval signal. In many instances, he suggested, it typically takes only “a few days” for this process to be completed.

In the world of finance, options are a type of contract that gives you the ability to either purchase or sell assets such as stocks or ETFs at a predetermined price and timeframe. As the organization responsible for clearing and settling listed options in the United States, the Options Clearing Corporation (OCC) manages countless financial contracts. In the near future, the OCC plans to include Bitcoin Spot ETF options within its purview.

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2024-11-18 21:24