The TASE derivatives market was established in 1993 and today its one of the most active markets on the TASE. The first product was options on the TA-25 index (the index tracking the 25 biggest companies on the TASE).

From 1999, trade on the derivatives market has been fully-automated on TACT (Tel Aviv Continuous Trading). Since the technological advance, trading turnovers in options on the TA-25 index have more than tripled.

In 1994 options on the Shekel-Dollar exchange-rate were launched, and in November 2001, they were joined by options on the Shekel-Euro exchange rate. These can be used to hedge against fluctuation of currencies.

Options on the TA-Banks Index  are also available in the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange.

The Derivatives (Maof) Clearing House is a TASE subsidiary. Its board of directors consists of external directors and directors representing its members. It sets the rules for trading in derivatives.

Equity options were launched in March 2009. The shares that will serve as underlying asset have been chosen among the shares with the highest market capitalization on the exchange as well as the highest volumes.

The main specifications of the equity options are similar to the TA-25 index options: European style options, cash settlement and the same exercise date.

Click here for the FAQ on Equity Options.