Bitcoin’s growing integration with traditional finance is sparking excitement among experts. Roundtable anchor Rob Nelson led a discussion on the expanding role of bitcoin, highlighting the increasing interest from major financial players. Joining him was Paul Giordano, V.P. of Digital Asset Management at MARA, to share insights into these developments.

Paul Giordano emphasized the significance of traditional finance embracing bitcoin, noting that “Every week or so, it seems that there's a new announcement of something that will allow bitcoin to expand its reach." He pointed out the steady introduction of options markets and the increasing role of big banks in custodial services for bitcoin.

Rob Nelson expressed enthusiasm about the recent approval of options trading, calling it "Absolutely massive that you could now trade options in bitcoin.” Giordano added that while BlackRock’s ETF is the first to be approved, others will follow soon, opening up "A lot of untapped liquidity and leverage" In the bitcoin ecosystem.

Reflecting on the broader impact, Giordano highlighted the unique nature of bitcoin's volatility, explaining that traders are more concerned with missing out on price increases than seeking downside protection. "In bitcoin, it's flipped," he noted, drawing a contrast with traditional assets where risk aversion dominates.