Binance Expands BTC Options Writing to General User Base, Restricts Altcoin Access

Binance has broadened access to its BTC Options writing functionality, allowing all users on the platform to participate in options selling, provided they switch their account to the “Long & Short Sell” trading mode. This development marks a shift from previous limitations, where writing access was only granted to select institutional or high-volume traders.

Under the updated structure, users can now write or sell BTC-denominated options contracts settled in USDT. The contracts are priced and settled in stablecoins rather than the underlying cryptocurrency itself. This shift aligns with broader industry trends that favor stablecoin-settled derivatives due to simpler cost assessment and reduced collateral risk compared to coin-margined contracts.

Access to options writing for other major cryptocurrencies—such as ETH, BNB, XRP, SOL, and DOGE—remains limited to pre-approved participants. No timeline has been disclosed regarding the expansion of altcoin options writing to the general user base.

Binance indicated that users seeking advanced privileges through the Options Enhanced Program must meet a threshold of at least 100 million USDT in 30-day trading volume and hold more than 1 million USDT in assets. Qualified participants are directed to apply via the company’s institutional contact channels.

The platform’s new structure retains a tiered approach, offering different functionalities based on trading volume and user profile, which may segment access across institutional and retail segments. This move may also reflect a measured risk approach as the exchange continues to expand its derivatives product lineup while maintaining tighter controls over altcoin-related instruments.