Marex launches crypto volatility indices targeting institutional investors
Marex has launched a new range of quantitative investment strategy (QIS) indices linked to Bitcoin and Ethereum, aimed at providing institutional investors with systematic exposure to digital asset volatility risk premia. The Marex Crypto Volatility Carry Indices comprise two strategies, one focused on Bitcoin and the other on Ethereum, designed to capture the difference between implied and realised volatility through a rules-based investment approach. The launch expands Marex's Institutional QIS offering into digital assets, extending strategies traditionally used across established asset classes to cryptocurrency markets. The indices use listed options and perpetual futures on Bitcoin and Ethereum traded through Coinbase, which Marex selected for its liquidity, institutional trading infrastructure and capacity to support risk management around the clock. Walter Cegarra, Head of Institutional Solutions, Financial Products at Marex, said the firm had applied its existing quantitative research, structuring and trading capabilities to develop systematic strategies for digital assets. The indices are intended to offer an additional source of risk premia for traditional institutional investors and crypto-native allocators seeking diversified investment exposures. Marex has appointed MSCI, through Compass Financial Technologies, as independent index calculation agent and administrator, providing oversight of index calculations and publication within a regulated framework. Liz Martin, Head of Coinbase Institutional, said the partnership would help extend quantitative investment strategies to digital asset investors while providing traditional institutions with access to crypto markets. Guillaume Le Fur, Managing Director, Index, at MSCI, said the collaboration would bring established benchmark administration standards to the new indices. The launch forms part of Marex's broader expansion of its Institutional QIS business, targeting asset classes where its trading, structuring and market access capabilities can support systematic investment strategies.