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Blockchain.com adds crypto options as it seeks US licenses

Blockchain.com has launched options for seven cryptocurrencies outside the US, a week after seeking CFTC registrations that could open derivatives trading there.

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Blockchain.com adds crypto options as it seeks US licenses

Blockchain.com launched options on seven cryptocurrencies on Oct. 20, giving eligible customers a way to bet on prices reaching a target by expiry while the company seeks US derivatives registrations. The company’s launch announcement says the product is available only in supported jurisdictions.

The launch follows a separate move toward the US market. On Oct. 13, Blockchain.com said it had applied to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission for Futures Commission Merchant and Designated Contract Market registrations. Approval could allow it to offer US customers crypto derivatives and prediction market contracts.

Which cryptocurrencies can customers trade?

At launch, eligible customers can buy call and put options on Bitcoin, Ether, Solana, Hyperliquid, Avalanche, XRP and TRON. Options expire within a week, and customers choose a target price and expiry before entering an amount.

Trades use USDC from a Blockchain.com Trading Account. The company says the amount paid upfront is the maximum potential loss. Customers must hold options until settlement; they cannot close them early.

Can US customers use the new options?

No. Blockchain.com’s options FAQ lists the United States among countries where the product is unavailable. The company’s US applications are still applications, not approvals, so the launch does not itself give US customers access.

The product also works differently from an exchange-traded option. Under Blockchain.com’s options terms, each contract is a cash-settled agreement between the customer and Blockchain.com, which acts as the sole counterparty. The option is not traded on an exchange or venue.

What happens if the CFTC approves the applications?

Blockchain.com said approval could let it offer futures, options and prediction market contracts to US retail and institutional customers through its platform. The filings seek permission for different roles: an FCM registration for derivatives brokerage and a DCM designation to operate a futures market.

The company has not announced a decision date. Watch for CFTC action on the applications and any update from Blockchain.com on whether US customers can access regulated derivatives through its app.

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