Nasdaq Lifts Bitcoin, Ethereum ETF Options Limits
- SEC waives Nasdaq filing, ETF options limits removed.
- Expanded trading capacity for Bitcoin BTC -0.15% , Ethereum ETH -0.49% ETFs.
- Potential market shifts following the decision.
Nasdaq filed a rule change with the SEC to remove contract limits on options for Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs, becoming effective immediately following a waiver on January 21, 2026.
This move can increase trading flexibility for major ETF issuers, potentially boosting liquidity for Bitcoin and Ethereum markets.
Main Content
Nasdaq’s Rule Change
The Nasdaq’s rule change, filed as SR-ISE-2026-01, removes the 25,000-contract position limits on Bitcoin and Ethereum ETF options. This change is effective immediately following the SEC’s waiver of the 30-day review period.
Key players include BlackRock, Fidelity, and Grayscale. The SEC’s waiver means larger hedging and trading capabilities for these fund issuers. Market participants are closely watching these developments.
Impact on the Market
The removal of limits directly impacts institutional investors and ETF providers, enhancing liquidity and broader market participation. Observers anticipate more dynamic trading strategies among large-scale traders.
Financially, this aligns crypto ETFs with existing commodity ETF regulations, potentially encouraging higher asset turnover and increased market activity without compromising investor protections.
“The removal of position limits opens the door for greater institutional investment in Bitcoin and Ethereum.”
SEC’s Continuing Oversight
SEC retains authority to suspend within 60 days, allowing further evaluation. Public comments remain open.
Historically, Nasdaq has advanced crypto option offerings, indicating a positive trend towards integrating cryptocurrency with traditional financial structures. This might result in more traditional financial institutions entering the crypto sphere.
