Nasdaq ISE proposes to raise BlackRock IBIT options trading limits from 250,000 to 1 million
Institutional investors gain greater flexibility and market access as exchanges respond to increased demand for digital asset derivatives products.
Key Takeaways
- Nasdaq ISE is seeking SEC approval to increase the position limits for BlackRock's IBIT, allowing bigger trades for institutional investors.
- IBIT is a Bitcoin-holding ETF listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market, and ISE received SEC approval to list IBIT options last September.
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Nasdaq ISE, LLC (ISE) has proposed rule amendments to increase the position and exercise limits for options on the iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) from 250,000 contracts to 1,000,000 contracts.
The fund, managed by BlackRock, provides investors with exposure to Bitcoin through traditional brokerage accounts. IBIT was approved for options trading on the ISE last September.
The exchange states that IBIT’s current 250,000-contract cap has become restrictive, given the rapid growth in options demand for IBIT during 2025. Increasing the limits would support greater hedging efficiency, facilitate income-generating option strategies, and allow market makers to provide deeper liquidity.
The increased limits reflect surging institutional demand for Bitcoin ETF options as Wall Street expands its crypto trading operations. Nasdaq operates as a major stock exchange and has been adapting its infrastructure to accommodate growing institutional interest in crypto derivatives.
