Cboe to Launch New Bitcoin Futures, Expanding Digital Asset Offerings

Cboe Expands Bitcoin Derivatives with New Futures Product

Cboe Global Markets, a leading derivatives and securities exchange network, has announced plans to launch Cboe FTSE Bitcoin Index futures. These new cash-settled futures, based on the FTSE Bitcoin Reduced Value (1/10th) Index (Ticker: XBTF), are scheduled to begin trading on the Cboe Futures Exchange (CFE) on April 28, 2025, pending regulatory approval. This launch marks the first product under Cboe’s collaboration with FTSE Russell, aimed at driving innovation in digital asset markets.

The XBTF futures will complement Cboe’s existing Bitcoin derivatives products, including options on the Cboe Bitcoin U.S. ETF Index (Tickers: CBTX, MBTX). By offering both futures and options, Cboe aims to provide traders and investors with a more comprehensive toolkit for managing Bitcoin exposure and executing advanced trading strategies. The futures will be cleared through the OCC, which also clears CBTX and MBTX options.

Enhancing Bitcoin Trading and Hedging Opportunities

Cboe’s expansion into XBTF futures comes amid growing demand for crypto exposure and the need for capital-efficient trading solutions. These futures are designed to settle in the afternoon on the last business day of each month and are based on the XBTF Index, which represents 1/10th the value of the FTSE Bitcoin Index. This structure is intended to provide a more accessible and flexible way to engage with Bitcoin markets.

Catherine Clay, Global Head of Derivatives at Cboe, emphasized the importance of this launch, stating, "This expansion comes at a pivotal time as market participants seek more versatile and efficient ways to manage Bitcoin exposure. Our growing suite of Bitcoin products reflects our commitment to innovation and meeting the evolving needs of our customers."

FTSE Russell’s Role in Digital Asset Innovation

FTSE Russell, a leading index provider, has collaborated with Cboe to develop the XBTF Index. Shawn Creighton, Director of Index Derivatives Solutions at FTSE Russell, highlighted the rigorous vetting process behind the index, ensuring it reflects the investable digital assets market. This partnership underscores Cboe’s efforts to establish industry standards for digital asset derivatives.

Cboe’s Commitment to Digital Asset Growth

Cboe has been actively expanding its digital asset offerings, including spot Bitcoin and Ether ETFs on its equities exchange, cash-settled Bitcoin ETF index options, and margined Bitcoin and Ether futures. These products have enabled investors to access Bitcoin with varying risk profiles, from standard contracts to defined-outcome ETFs. The introduction of XBTF futures further solidifies Cboe’s position as a leader in the digital asset derivatives space.

For more information on the new Cboe FTSE Bitcoin Index futures, visit the pre-launch resource hub.