Options

Options are versatile derivative instruments that give traders the right, but not the obligation, to buy (Call) or sell (Put) a digital asset at a specific strike price.Unlike futures, options offer a flexible way to hedge against "black swan" events or speculate on implied volatility. The 2026 landscape features a surge in on-chain options vaults (DOVs) and structured products that simplify complex "Greeks" for retail users. Explore this tag for insights into premium pricing, expiration cycles, and advanced strategic hedging in the decentralized derivatives market.

20442 Articles

Created: 2026/02/02 18:52

Updated: 2026/02/02 18:52

cbBTC’s Astounding Rise: Unpacking Coinbase’s Bitcoin Product and Its DeFi Impact

BitcoinWorld cbBTC’s Astounding Rise: Unpacking Coinbase’s Bitcoin Product and Its DeFi Impact The world of synthetic Bitcoin products is witnessing a significant shift. Since its launch in September 2024, Coinbase’s innovative synthetic Bitcoin product, cbBTC, has achieved remarkable growth. This surge marks a pivotal moment, especially as its counterpart, wBTC, experiences a notable decline. What is cbBTC and Why is it Expanding Rapidly? cbBTC, a synthetic Bitcoin product offered by Coinbase, allows users to access Bitcoin’s value within the decentralized finance (DeFi) ecosystem. Launched in September 2024, its journey has been nothing short of impressive. According to data from The Block, cbBTC has grown from a modest 1,000 tokens to more than 30,500 tokens. This represents an astonishing increase of over 160% year to date. Several factors contribute to this rapid expansion: Institutional Backing: As a product from Coinbase, a regulated and trusted exchange, cbBTC likely benefits from institutional confidence and easier access for larger players. Ease of Access: Coinbase’s extensive user base and streamlined integration could be making it simpler for users to acquire and utilize cbBTC within supported DeFi protocols. Market Demand: There is a clear and growing demand for Bitcoin exposure within DeFi, and cbBTC is effectively capturing a significant portion of this market. Is wBTC Losing Its Dominance? The Shifting Landscape In stark contrast to cbBTC’s ascent, Wrapped Bitcoin (wBTC), which has long been the largest synthetic Bitcoin product on Ethereum, is facing a significant challenge. Since the debut of cbBTC, wBTC’s supply has fallen by 17%. Furthermore, its supply is down 4% so far this year. This decline signals a potential shift in the synthetic Bitcoin market dynamics. Why might wBTC be experiencing this downturn? Competition: The emergence of strong competitors like cbBTC naturally fragments the market. Market Sentiment: Broader market trends and user preferences may be influencing the choice between different synthetic Bitcoin options. Centralization Debates: While wBTC has its own centralized aspects, the discussion around centralization in general could be leading some users to explore newer alternatives or reconsider their holdings. Understanding the Centralization Concerns Around cbBTC Despite its impressive growth, cbBTC has not been without its critics. Concerns regarding its centralization and transparency have drawn considerable scrutiny. Prominent figures, including Tron founder Justin Sun, have voiced warnings that cbBTC could pose significant risks to the broader decentralized finance ecosystem. The core of these concerns revolves around: Single Point of Failure: As a product managed by a single entity (Coinbase), critics argue it introduces a centralized risk that goes against the ethos of decentralization. Transparency: Questions arise about the real-time auditing and collateralization mechanisms, which might not be as transparent as some fully decentralized alternatives. Regulatory Influence: A centralized issuer like Coinbase is subject to regulatory pressures, which could, in theory, impact the availability or functionality of cbBTC. These discussions highlight the ongoing tension between institutional involvement and the foundational principles of DeFi. What Does cbBTC’s Expansion Mean for Your Portfolio? The rapid expansion of cbBTC and the concurrent decline of wBTC signal a dynamic and evolving landscape for synthetic Bitcoin. For investors and DeFi participants, understanding these shifts is crucial. While cbBTC offers a new avenue for Bitcoin exposure within DeFi, it also brings a different risk profile compared to more decentralized options. Consider these actionable insights: Diversify: Do not put all your synthetic Bitcoin exposure into one product. Explore different options and understand their underlying mechanisms. Assess Risk: Evaluate the centralization risks associated with cbBTC and how they align with your personal risk tolerance. Stay Informed: The synthetic asset space is constantly changing. Keep abreast of new developments, regulatory changes, and community discussions surrounding these products. The rise of cbBTC is undeniably a major development, showcasing Coinbase’s growing influence in the DeFi space. The cryptocurrency market is always evolving, and the story of cbBTC versus wBTC is a compelling example of innovation meeting traditional structures. While cbBTC’s impressive growth underscores a strong demand for institutionally-backed synthetic assets, the critical discussions around centralization are vital. As the DeFi ecosystem matures, the balance between accessibility, trust, and true decentralization will continue to shape the future of products like cbBTC. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Q1: What is a synthetic Bitcoin product like cbBTC? A1: A synthetic Bitcoin product is a token that represents the value of Bitcoin on another blockchain, typically Ethereum. It allows Bitcoin holders to participate in DeFi activities without directly moving their native BTC, which operates on its own blockchain. Q2: How does cbBTC differ from wBTC? A2: Both are synthetic Bitcoin tokens, but cbBTC is issued and managed by Coinbase, a centralized exchange, while wBTC is a more community-driven initiative backed by a consortium of custodians and merchants. This difference often leads to varying levels of centralization and transparency. Q3: Why are there concerns about cbBTC’s centralization? A3: Critics argue that because Coinbase controls the issuance and redemption of cbBTC, it introduces a single point of control and potential failure. This goes against the decentralized nature of many DeFi protocols and could lead to censorship or asset freezing under certain circumstances. Q4: What are the benefits of using cbBTC in DeFi? A4: Benefits include leveraging Coinbase’s brand trust and regulatory compliance, potentially lower fees for Coinbase users, and seamless integration within Coinbase’s ecosystem. It offers a straightforward way for their users to get Bitcoin exposure in DeFi. Q5: Should I be worried about wBTC’s decline? A5: While wBTC’s supply has decreased, it remains a significant asset in DeFi. Its decline relative to cbBTC suggests a shift in market preference or new competition, rather than an inherent failure of wBTC itself. Users should always assess their own risk tolerance and diversification strategies. Q6: How does cbBTC impact the overall DeFi ecosystem? A6: cbBTC‘s growth brings more institutional liquidity and users into DeFi, which can be beneficial. However, it also intensifies the debate around centralization and the role of large entities in a decentralized space, potentially influencing how future DeFi protocols are designed and adopted. If you found this article insightful, consider sharing it with your network! Your support helps us continue to deliver timely and relevant cryptocurrency news and analysis. To learn more about the latest crypto market trends, explore our article on key developments shaping Bitcoin institutional adoption. This post cbBTC’s Astounding Rise: Unpacking Coinbase’s Bitcoin Product and Its DeFi Impact first appeared on BitcoinWorld and is written by Editorial Team

Author: Coinstats

2025/08/22

Spurs Add Former NBA All-Star To Coaching Staff

The post Spurs Add Former NBA All-Star To Coaching Staff appeared on BitcoinEthereumNews.com. SAN ANTONIO, TX – NOVEMBER 23: Interim Head coach Mitch Johnson of the San Antonio Spurs confers with Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle #5 late in the second half in game against the Golden State Warriors at Frost Bank Center on November 23, 2024 in San Antonio, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Cortes/Getty Images) Getty Images The San Antonio Spurs are hiring Rashard Lewis as a player development coach. That’s per a report from Michael Scotto of HoopsHype. The two-time NBA All-Star worked with the organization’s Summer League team earlier this offseason. Lewis had previously spent time as an assistant coach for the Detroit Pistons. Raised in Houston, Texas, he now returns to his home state. In his player development role on head coach Mitch Johnson’s staff, Lewis can help mold a talented young roster. San Antonio has a team capable of ascending from failing to reach the postseason to NBA title contention in the upcoming campaign. While that centers around burgeoning star Victor Wembanyama, flanking him are a pair of top-five picks from the last two drafts. Stephon Castle went fourth overall in 2024. He’ll now share the backcourt with this year’s second-overall selection, Dylan Harper. The former Rutgers star impressed in his time at Summer League. There are also veterans like former All-Star De’Aaron Fox, Keldon Johnson, former lottery picks Devin Vassell and Jeremy Sochan, and rookie Carter Bryant, who also fits that description. The latter has the potential to become a defensive menace quickly. As the Spurs aim to pole vault up the standings, they bolstered their options at center, acquiring a pair of former Boston Celtics, Luke Kornet…

Author: BitcoinEthereumNews

2025/08/22

This Week in Crypto: Why Traders Should Pay Attention to Powell’s Jackson Hole Speech

Crypto markets are treading water ahead of a speech that could jolt them out of their summer lull. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell will take the stage at Jackson Hole on Friday, and traders are positioning for moves that may ripple far beyond equities and bonds. The Federal Reserve’s annual policy retreat in Jackson Hole has rarely been a sleepy affair, and this year it may prove pivotal for crypto markets. Chair Jerome Powell is set to deliver his keynote on Friday, August 22, with investors already bracing for sharp moves in risk assets depending on his tone. Macro Backdrop Markets enter the symposium with an uneasy calm. Most cryptocurrencies have been range-bound for much of August as traders sidestep fresh bets ahead of Powell’s remarks. Federal Open Market Committee minutes released last week showed limited support for an immediate rate cut, but futures still price in a high probability of easing at the September meeting. That gap between policy signaling and market conviction sets the stage for volatility. For crypto, the stakes are straightforward. Looser policy lowers real yields and supports liquidity, lifting Bitcoin and Ethereum. A hawkish tilt—emphasizing inflation control over labor-market risks—would likely do the opposite. Why Jackson Hole Matters The Jackson Hole symposium, hosted by the Kansas City Fed, is not just another conference. Powell has used it in the past to recalibrate expectations, sometimes with a single line. His 2022 speech, for instance, sank Bitcoin within an hour as investors digested a more restrictive stance. The event also falls at a sensitive point in the data cycle. Jobless claims, wage trends, and productivity figures are flashing mixed signals. The symposium’s official theme—“Labor Markets in Transition: Demographics, Productivity, and Macroeconomic Policy”—gives Powell room to argue either for patience or urgency in adjusting rates. Why Strategic PR Matters at Times Like This Macro catalysts like Jackson Hole remind founders and executives that timing and narrative can be as critical as fundamentals. A well-calibrated message can either amplify opportunity or cushion the blow from shifting markets. Strategic PR never hurts—especially at crucial times. Outset PR has carved out a reputation in that niche. The agency tracks market shifts in real time, aligning client narratives with investor sentiment and broader news cycles. Instead of vague promises, Outset PR offers concrete plans tied to publication timing, product-market fit, and media performance. The result is coverage that lands at the right moment and resonates long after the headlines fade. While many agencies rely on mass-blast outreach, Outset PR takes a tailored, data-driven approach. Its secret weapon is a proprietary content distribution system that combines organic editorial placements with SEO and lead-generation tactics. The agency’s in-house analytical desk provides a further edge, publishing performance studies of crypto media outlets and using insights on domain activity, traffic sources, and audience geography to refine targeting. By fusing data with boutique-level care, Outset PR addresses one of Web3’s biggest pain points: the disconnect between visibility and impact. Clients walk away with more than media hits—they get a forward-looking roadmap of how their story will unfold, where it will land, and the tangible results it can deliver. Market Positioning Ahead of Friday Bitcoin has already given back gains this week as traders reduced exposure. Ethereum and major altcoins followed suit. Gold, another liquidity barometer, has drifted lower in anticipation of higher real yields. Volatility gauges across markets have compressed, signaling that many desks are waiting for Powell before repositioning. That compression itself is a warning. With options markets priced for calm, the potential for an outsized reaction to Friday’s speech increases. Scenarios for Crypto Base Case (Mildly Dovish): Powell acknowledges softer labor conditions, keeps September easing in play, but avoids promising a full cycle. Expect a relief bounce in Bitcoin and Ethereum, though gains may fade into thin weekend liquidity. Hawkish Surprise: Emphasis on inflation vigilance and data-dependence. Dollar strengthens, real yields rise, and crypto sells off. Dovish Surprise: Clear signal of imminent easing and openness to follow-ups. Crypto rallies broadly, with high-beta altcoins outperforming. The Trader’s Playbook Friday’s keynote is the catalyst. Traders don’t need to predict the content so much as prepare for three possible paths. The checklist is simple: watch the clock, monitor cross-asset confirmations (dollar, real yields, equities), and size positions for binary headline risk. Above all, remember that Jackson Hole rarely passes without a ripple. In crypto’s case, the ripple can become a wave. And for businesses trying to navigate the same uncertainty, there’s value in having a PR partner who knows when—and how—to make your story heard. Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.

Author: Coinstats

2025/08/22

the 2013 brand reemerges as SWIFT initiates DLT operational tests

The post the 2013 brand reemerges as SWIFT initiates DLT operational tests appeared on BitcoinEthereumNews.com. The “XRP” brand registered in 2013 returns to the spotlight just as SWIFT announces the start of operational tests on transactions with digital assets set for 2025. An interesting aspect is that this coincidence brings attention back to interoperability, cross-border payments, and ISO 20022 standards, with possible practical implications for banks and infrastructures. According to the data collected by our research team on payment systems (monitoring 2019–2025), the pilot projects that combined structured messaging and linking to DLT ledger showed significant reductions in operational exceptions and improvements in end-to-end visibility. Industry analysts observe how the convergence between ISO 20022 and tokenized solutions is accelerating use cases for instant liquidity in high-volume corridors. I have personally followed some proof-of-concept integrations between banks and DLT networks and confirm that the complexity of integration requires governance, resilience testing, and detailed compliance procedures. What has resurfaced: the XRP brand from 2013 Archive documents show a filing with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on December 31, 2013 for the distinctive sign “XRP”, registered in international class 36 (financial services) with the registration number 4,458,993 (WIPO; Justia — record). It is not a patent, but rather a trademark registration to protect the use of the name in a commercial context. Legal nature: a trademark protects the name in the reference markets; does not confer exclusive rights on the technology or the DLT network. Scope of use: the brand can be referenced in contracts, offers, and documentation of payment services, facilitating branding compliance. Why now: SWIFT operational tests in 2025 SWIFT has announced the start of operational tests for transactions with digital assets, aiming to ensure interoperability between different ledgers and leverage ISO 20022 messaging for reconciliation and end-to-end monitoring. It should be noted that the initiative aims to connect the traditional banking system with DLT…

Author: BitcoinEthereumNews

2025/08/22

Bitcoin’s $13.8B options expiry puts bulls on edge ahead of key test

                                                                               Bitcoin’s options expiry and tech-sector pressures will determine if the bull run truly ended or just took a pause.                     Key takeaways:Bitcoin bears hold strong incentives below $114,000, likely intensifying pressure ahead of the options expiry.AI-sector spending concerns add turbulence and weigh on investors’ broader risk appetite.Read more

Author: Coinstats

2025/08/22