Liquidnet Charges Into US Equity Options Arena - Institutional Trading Just Got More Competitive
Another institutional giant crashes the options party - because traditional equity markets just weren't complicated enough.
The institutional invasion accelerates
Liquidnet's expansion into US equity options represents the latest move in the institutional land grab for derivatives market share. The institutional trading platform, known for its block trading capabilities in equities, now sets its sights on the complex world of options trading.
Why options matter now
The timing couldn't be more strategic - or more cynical. With market volatility becoming the new normal and hedging strategies multiplying faster than hedge fund management fees, institutions need more sophisticated tools to navigate the chaos they helped create.
The competitive landscape shifts
This move pressures existing options platforms to up their game while giving institutional traders another venue to execute complex strategies. Because what the financial world really needs is another way for big players to make even bigger bets with other people's money.
Liquidnet's expansion proves one thing: when traditional markets get boring, the smart money just creates new ones - complete with all the complexity and fee structures that keep consultants employed and retail investors confused.
Liquidnet, a leading technology-driven agency execution specialist, announced the launch of its US Equity Options business, a strategic expansion that supports its multi-asset ambitions.
To lead this initiative, Liquidnet has appointed Andrew Arnold as Senior Execution Trader, High Touch US Equity Options, and Jason Lichten as Senior Execution Trader, Low Touch US Equity Options.
Arnold joins with more than 20 years of experience in equity derivatives, having held senior sales trading roles at Credit Suisse, Cantor Fitzgerald, Baycrest, Tullett Prebon and GFI. He will oversee the buildout of Liquidnet’s high-touch US Equity Options offering.
Lichten brings over 25 years of industry experience from Wolverine Execution Services, RBC Capital Markets, BT Radianz and Merrill Lynch, and will focus on developing Liquidnet’s low-touch electronic options capabilities.
, said: “Expanding into US Equity Options is a logical next step in our multi-asset strategy. The market has seen sustained growth over the past several years and we see clear opportunities to deliver value to our Members by extending our execution expertise into this space. With Andrew and Jason’s depth of experience, we’re well-positioned to build a differentiated offering that complements our existing capabilities across equities, fixed income and listed derivatives.”
, added: “This is a rare opportunity to build something new within an established global network. The US options market is evolving quickly, with growing demand for high-quality, agency-driven execution. Building this business within Liquidnet gives us the opportunity to bring the same trusted model and Member-first approach that have long defined our success in equities.”
, commented: “The continued electronification of the US options market presents real opportunities for innovation. Liquidnet’s technology-driven approach and global network provide a strong foundation for developing advanced low-touch solutions tailored to institutional needs.”
Source: Liquidnet
