Deribit Exchange Announces USDC-Settled Bitcoin and Ether Options Launch

Deribit, the leading crypto options exchange, will introduce USDC-settled Bitcoin and Ether options on August 19, following Coinbase's $2.9 billion acquisition. The move aims to cater to growing institutional demand by offering stablecoin-based margin and settlement, lower minimum order sizes, and enhanced capital efficiency.

The new linear options will complement Deribit's existing inverse contracts, allowing traders to offset margin requirements. CEO Luuk Strijers emphasized the benefits: "USDC settlement provides flexibility, capital efficiency, and a fiat-equivalent structure appealing to both institutions and retail traders."

Unlike inverse contracts, linear options settle directly in USDC, eliminating exposure to crypto volatility during payout calculations. This development marks a significant step in bridging traditional finance with crypto derivatives markets.