The crypto derivatives market could cross a new regulatory milestone. Nasdaq has submitted to the Securities and Exchange Commission a proposal aimed at simplifying the listing of options linked to crypto ETFs. The text mainly seeks to set common criteria for funds exposed to digital commodities. This approach comes as U.S. regulations remain in flux. This approach comes as U.S. regulations remain in full development.
In brief
- Nasdaq proposes standardized criteria to list options linked to crypto ETFs.
- The project requires at least 85% of the net asset value to be based on derivative-eligible assets.
- A 15% tolerance would allow the inclusion of some assets that do not meet derivative market criteria.
- Bitcoin, Ether, Solana, and XRP could be concerned if they meet the set conditions.
Nasdaq Proposes a Common Framework for Options
The proposal submitted by Nasdaq to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) bears the number SR-ISE-2026-42. It aims to amend the rules applicable to options on certain investment funds linked to digital commodities.
The text notably provides that at least 85% of a fund’s net asset value rests on assets underlying derivative contracts. These contracts must be traded on markets with comprehensive surveillance and data-sharing agreements. The Intermarket Surveillance Group can also meet this condition.
In parallel, Nasdaq anticipates a 15% tolerance margin for certain assets. This part of the fund could include digital commodities that do not meet derivative market requirements.
However, this flexibility does not remove the liquidity criteria applicable to each underlying asset. Each relevant digital commodity must display an average daily global market value of at least 700 million dollars over twelve months. The mechanism thus seeks to define a common foundation for eligible products.




