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Bitcoin $10.5 Billion Options Expiry Puts Pressure on Bulls
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Bitcoin $10.5 Billion Options Expiry Puts Pressure on Bulls

Bitcoin markets are approaching a critical $10.5 billion monthly options expiry, with current positioning suggesting that bearish traders may hold the advantage. BTC recently climbed to an eight day high near $68,800 after forming a double bottom around $62,500. However, the cryptocurrency remains 21% below levels seen a month ago, limiting bullish momentum ahead of expiry.

Laurisa
By Laurisa

Junior Author · February 26, 2026

2 min
Key takeaways
Bitcoin markets are approaching a critical $10.5 billion monthly options expiry, with current positioning suggesting that bearish traders may hold the advantage.
BTC recently climbed to an eight day high near $68,800 after forming a double bottom around $62,500.
However, the cryptocurrency remains 21% below levels seen a month ago, limiting bullish momentum ahead of expiry.

Bitcoin markets are approaching a critical $10.5 billion monthly options expiry, with current positioning suggesting that bearish traders may hold the advantage. BTC recently climbed to an eight day high near $68,800 after forming a double bottom around $62,500. However, the cryptocurrency remains 21% below levels seen a month ago, limiting bullish momentum ahead of expiry.

The derivatives exchange Deribit dominates the market with a 76% share, holding $4.5 billion in call options and $3.4 billion in put options. OKX and CME Group follow with significantly smaller shares. Despite calls exceeding puts in total open interest, most bullish contracts sit above $70,000 and risk expiring worthless if BTC fails to rally.

BTC Friday call (buy) options at Deribit.

Bitcoin Correlation With Nasdaq Adds Uncertainty

A 90% correlation between Bitcoin and the Nasdaq 100 highlights how closely crypto sentiment is tied to technology equities. Market performance, including earnings from major firms such as Nvidia, could influence price action before expiry.

Current projections show that if BTC settles between $65,000 and $69,000, put options could gain a net advantage of $1.15 billion. Bulls would require roughly a 9% rally above $75,000 to neutralize bearish pressure and potentially shift market momentum.

Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Cryptocurrency trading involves risk and may result in financial loss.

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Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Cryptocurrency trading involves risk and may result in financial loss.

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About the author

Laurisa
Laurisa

Emerging voice in crypto journalism with a background in fintech and digital economics. Covers DeFi, NFTs, and the evolving regulatory landscape.