> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://support.power.trade/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://support.power.trade/trading/options/options-contract-specifications.md).

# PowerTrade Options Contract Specifications | BTC, ETH & Altcoins

#### European-Style USDC-Settled Options

PowerTrade offers **European-style crypto options** across BTC, ETH, and 80+ altcoin markets. All contracts are **cash-settled in USDC**, ensuring simplicity, transparency, and reduced custody risk.

**Key Features:**

* **Exercise Style:** European-style — options can **only be exercised at expiry**, not before. This prevents early exercise risk and helps traders focus purely on market moves up to the expiration date.
* **Settlement:** Cash-settled in **USDC**, so you never need to hold the underlying cryptocurrency.
* **Pricing:** All options are quoted in **USD terms**, based on blended exchange rate sources.
* **Trading Hours:** 24/7, giving traders around-the-clock access to crypto derivatives.

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#### What Are European-Style Options?

European-style options differ from American-style options in a key way:

* **European Options:** Can only be exercised **on the expiration date**. This makes them ideal for traders who want a clear and risk-defined payoff structure, without the complexity of early exercise.
* **American Options:** Can be exercised **at any time** before expiry, which can add flexibility but also complicates risk management and pricing.

For crypto traders, European-style options offer:

* ✅ **Simpler strategies** (no unexpected early exercise)
* ✅ **Cleaner risk management** with predictable settlement
* ✅ **Focus on expiry-based trading** — ideal for hedging or speculating on key events (e.g., rate decisions, token unlocks, or ETF approvals)

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#### Why Trade Options on PowerTrade?

* ✅ **European-style, USDC-settled** — simple, transparent, and risk-defined
* ✅ Access to **BTC, ETH & 80+ altcoin options markets** (the widest coverage in crypto)
* ✅ **24/7 global trading access**
* ✅ **Transparent margining and settlement** process
* ✅ Flexible expiries — from daily to 3 months forward

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## Still have questions?

📩 **Email Support:** <support@power.trade>

💬 **Telegram 24/7 Desk:** <https://t.me/power_trade>