When did Eurex launch options on the VSTOXX index?
We launched the options on the volatility index VSTOXX on March 22 of this year. It gives investors the ability to trade volatility derived from EURO STOXX 50 options, probably the most liquid options out there – it is the blue chip Euro zone benchmark index. Q: Were you the main person behind the development of this new product? A: Yes, I was responsible for the development of options on VSTOXX. This launch follows the relaunch of the VSTOXX mini futures product. Last year after the conundrum of 2008, when things calmed down, we spoke to players in the market and then re-launched the futures on the VSTOXX. We reduced the contract multiplier to 100 euros per volatility index point, based on client feedback that the previous size of 1,000 euros was too big. The most significant development on the futures side was continuing market making support of institutional trading needs. That started with the market maker support from Dominicé Asset Management, who were joined by Barclays Capital
