Cboe Global Markets (CBOE)


Market Price (11/3/2026): $349.15 | Market Cap: $36.4 BilInvestor Relations Sector: Financials | Industry: Financial Exchanges & Data

Cboe Global Markets (CBOE)


Market Price (11/3/2026): $349.15
Market Cap: $36.4 Bil
Sector: Financials
Industry: Financial Exchanges & Data

Investment Highlights Why It Matters Detailed financial logic regarding cash flow yields vs trend-riding momentum.

0

Attractive cash flow generation
CFO/Rev LTMCash Flow from Operations / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 50%, FCF/Rev LTMFree Cash Flow / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 48%, CFO LTM is 2.6 Bil, FCF LTM is 2.5 Bil

Attractive yield
FCF Yield is 6.9%

Low stock price volatility
Vol 12M is 37%

Megatrend and thematic drivers
Megatrends include Crypto & Blockchain, AI in Financial Services, and Fintech & Digital Payments. Themes include Cryptocurrency Exchanges, Show more.

Trading close to highs
Dist 52W High is -4.3%, Dist 3Y High is -4.3%

Key risks
CBOE key risks include [1] the potential for lower trading volumes in its flagship VIX products during periods of reduced market volatility.

0 Attractive cash flow generation
CFO/Rev LTMCash Flow from Operations / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 50%, FCF/Rev LTMFree Cash Flow / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 48%, CFO LTM is 2.6 Bil, FCF LTM is 2.5 Bil
1 Attractive yield
FCF Yield is 6.9%
2 Low stock price volatility
Vol 12M is 37%
3 Megatrend and thematic drivers
Megatrends include Crypto & Blockchain, AI in Financial Services, and Fintech & Digital Payments. Themes include Cryptocurrency Exchanges, Show more.
4 Trading close to highs
Dist 52W High is -4.3%, Dist 3Y High is -4.3%
5 Key risks
CBOE key risks include [1] the potential for lower trading volumes in its flagship VIX products during periods of reduced market volatility.

CBOE in ETFs

Weight = CBOE's share of each fund

SPY0.05%
VOO0.04%
IVV0.05%
VTI0.04%
ITOT0.05%
IWB0.05%
RSP0.23%
VTV0.11%
+31 more covered ETFs

Valuation & Metrics

Price Chart

Why The Stock Moved

Qualitative Assessment

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Updated on 11/1/2026

Cboe Global Markets (CBOE) stock has gained about 15% since 7/31/2026 because of the following key factors:

1. Exceptional Financial Performance in Fiscal Q2 and Q3 2026, coupled with increased guidance.

Cboe Global Markets reported strong financial results, consistently surpassing analyst expectations. For fiscal Q2 2026, reported on July 31, 2026, the company posted diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $3.35, a 50% year-over-year increase, and record net revenue of $731.6 million, up 25% year-over-year. This momentum continued into fiscal Q3 2026, reported on October 30, 2026, with record diluted EPS of $4.08, up 43% year-over-year, and adjusted diluted EPS of $3.63, exceeding analyst estimates of $3.43 by 5.7%. Following these results, Cboe raised its 2026 organic total net revenue growth target to "high teens" from "mid to high teens".

2. Robust Growth in the Derivatives Business, particularly Index Options and Zero-Day-to-Expiration (0DTE) Contracts.

The derivatives segment continued to be a primary growth driver. In fiscal Q2 2026, derivatives net revenue surged 30% year-over-year, with index options average daily volume (ADV) increasing 32%. This trend persisted in fiscal Q3 2026, where net revenue from Options rose 23%, driven by a 24% increase in index options ADV and strong activity in SPX 0DTE contracts. The sustained demand for these proprietary products significantly contributed to revenue and profitability.

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Updated on 11/1/2026

Cboe Global Markets (CBOE) stock has gained about 15% since 7/31/2026 because of the following key factors:

1. Exceptional Financial Performance in Fiscal Q2 and Q3 2026, coupled with increased guidance.

Cboe Global Markets reported strong financial results, consistently surpassing analyst expectations. For fiscal Q2 2026, reported on July 31, 2026, the company posted diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $3.35, a 50% year-over-year increase, and record net revenue of $731.6 million, up 25% year-over-year. This momentum continued into fiscal Q3 2026, reported on October 30, 2026, with record diluted EPS of $4.08, up 43% year-over-year, and adjusted diluted EPS of $3.63, exceeding analyst estimates of $3.43 by 5.7%. Following these results, Cboe raised its 2026 organic total net revenue growth target to "high teens" from "mid to high teens".

2. Robust Growth in the Derivatives Business, particularly Index Options and Zero-Day-to-Expiration (0DTE) Contracts.

The derivatives segment continued to be a primary growth driver. In fiscal Q2 2026, derivatives net revenue surged 30% year-over-year, with index options average daily volume (ADV) increasing 32%. This trend persisted in fiscal Q3 2026, where net revenue from Options rose 23%, driven by a 24% increase in index options ADV and strong activity in SPX 0DTE contracts. The sustained demand for these proprietary products significantly contributed to revenue and profitability.

3. Strategic Divestiture and Enhanced Capital Allocation Initiatives.

Cboe Global Markets completed the divestiture of Cboe Australia on July 31, 2026, which resulted in a $71.5 million net gain recorded in fiscal Q3 2026. This transaction positively impacted GAAP EPS and lowered the effective tax rate. Additionally, on October 22, 2026, the Board increased the share repurchase authorization by $550 million, bringing the total available for repurchases to approximately $1.0 billion, signaling strong capital management and a commitment to shareholder returns.

4. Positive Analyst Sentiment and Operational Efficiency Improvements.

Analyst confidence in Cboe increased during the period, with several firms upgrading ratings or raising price targets. For example, Morgan Stanley upgraded the stock from "Underweight" to "Overweight" in October 2026 and raised its price target to $358, later to $450. TD Cowen and Barclays also raised price targets in November 2026. Concurrently, Cboe demonstrated improved operational efficiency, with adjusted operating expenses declining 3% in fiscal Q3 2026 to $204.0 million and the company lowering its full-year 2026 adjusted operating expense guidance.

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Stock Movement Drivers

Fundamental Drivers

The 12.9% change in CBOE stock from 7/31/2026 to 11/2/2026 was primarily driven by a 4.9% change in the company's Net Income Margin (%).
(LTM values as of)731202611022026Change
Stock Price ($)309.37349.2212.9%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)5,0615,2784.3%
Net Income Margin (%)26.7%28.0%4.9%
P/E Multiple23.924.63.0%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)1051040.2%
Cumulative Contribution12.9%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

7/31/2026 to 11/2/2026
ReturnCorrelation
CBOE12.9% 
Market (SPY)0.7%-40.0%
Sector (XLF)1.1%5.9%

Fundamental Drivers

The 16.9% change in CBOE stock from 4/30/2026 to 11/2/2026 was primarily driven by a 20.2% change in the company's Net Income Margin (%).
(LTM values as of)430202611022026Change
Stock Price ($)298.63349.2216.9%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)4,7145,27812.0%
Net Income Margin (%)23.3%28.0%20.2%
P/E Multiple28.424.6-13.3%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)1051040.2%
Cumulative Contribution16.9%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

4/30/2026 to 11/2/2026
ReturnCorrelation
CBOE16.9% 
Market (SPY)4.9%-23.6%
Sector (XLF)10.8%-4.0%

Fundamental Drivers

The 43.6% change in CBOE stock from 10/31/2025 to 11/2/2026 was primarily driven by a 31.8% change in the company's Net Income Margin (%).
(LTM values as of)1031202511022026Change
Stock Price ($)243.16349.2243.6%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)4,6185,27814.3%
Net Income Margin (%)21.3%28.0%31.8%
P/E Multiple25.924.6-4.7%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)1051040.1%
Cumulative Contribution43.6%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

10/31/2025 to 11/2/2026
ReturnCorrelation
CBOE43.6% 
Market (SPY)11.2%-17.5%
Sector (XLF)11.3%-0.1%

Fundamental Drivers

The 120.4% change in CBOE stock from 10/31/2023 to 11/2/2026 was primarily driven by a 67.8% change in the company's Net Income Margin (%).
(LTM values as of)1031202311022026Change
Stock Price ($)158.42349.22120.4%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)3,8945,27835.5%
Net Income Margin (%)16.7%28.0%67.8%
P/E Multiple25.724.6-4.2%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)1061041.1%
Cumulative Contribution120.4%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

10/31/2023 to 11/2/2026
ReturnCorrelation
CBOE120.4% 
Market (SPY)86.0%-16.2%
Sector (XLF)85.7%0.2%

Return vs. Risk

Price Returns Compared

 202120222023202420252026Total [1]
Returns
CBOE Return42%-2%44%11%30%40%305%
Peers Return38%-23%26%21%14%6%97%
S&P 500 Return27%-19%24%23%16%10%101%

Monthly Win Rates [3]
CBOE Win Rate58%33%75%50%75%64% 
Peers Win Rate62%37%62%55%65%55% 
S&P 500 Win Rate75%42%67%75%67%36% 

Max Drawdowns [4]
CBOE Max Drawdown-13%-19%-8%-14%-9%-37% 
Peers Max Drawdown-10%-35%-17%-10%-19%-27% 
S&P 500 Max Drawdown-5%-25%-10%-8%-19%-9% 


[1] Cumulative total returns since the beginning of 2021
[2] Peers: CME, ICE, NDAQ, SPGI, MCO. See CBOE Returns vs. Peers.
[3] Win Rate = % of calendar months in which monthly returns were positive
[4] Max drawdown represents maximum peak-to-trough decline within a year
[5] 2026 data is for the year up to 11/2/2026 (YTD)

How Low Can It Go

EventCBOES&P 500
2022 Inflation Shock & Fed Tightening
  % Loss-18.1%-24.5%
  % Gain to Breakeven22.0%32.4%
  Time to Breakeven167 days427 days
2020 COVID-19 Crash
  % Loss-36.8%-33.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven58.3%50.9%
  Time to Breakeven460 days140 days
2010 Eurozone Sovereign Debt Crisis / Flash Crash
  % Loss-19.7%-15.4%
  % Gain to Breakeven24.6%18.2%
  Time to Breakeven884 days125 days

Compare to CME, ICE, NDAQ, SPGI, MCO

In The Past

Cboe Global Markets's stock fell -2.3% during the 2025 US Tariff Shock. Such a loss loss requires a 2.4% gain to breakeven.

Preserve Wealth

Limiting losses and compounding gains is essential to preserving wealth.

Asset Allocation

Actively managed asset allocation strategies protect wealth. Learn more.

EventCBOES&P 500
2020 COVID-19 Crash
  % Loss-36.8%-33.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven58.3%50.9%
  Time to Breakeven460 days140 days

Compare to CME, ICE, NDAQ, SPGI, MCO

In The Past

Cboe Global Markets's stock fell -2.3% during the 2025 US Tariff Shock. Such a loss loss requires a 2.4% gain to breakeven.

Preserve Wealth

Limiting losses and compounding gains is essential to preserving wealth.

Asset Allocation

Actively managed asset allocation strategies protect wealth. Learn more.

About Cboe Global Markets (CBOE)

Cboe Global Markets (CBOE) is a prominent global exchange operator that facilitates the trading of a wide range of financial products across various asset classes. Headquartered in Chicago and founded in 1973, the company provides essential infrastructure for financial markets worldwide, serving as a critical intermediary where participants can buy, sell, and list financial instruments.

The company's diverse offerings are segmented across multiple geographies. Cboe operates significant platforms for options trading, particularly for listed market indices. It also provides marketplaces for trading U.S. and Canadian equities, exchange-traded products (ETPs), and futures. Expanding its global reach, Cboe facilitates trading in equities, derivatives, and commodities across Europe and Asia Pacific, additionally offering ETP listings and clearing services in these regions.

Furthermore, Cboe features a dedicated Global FX segment, which provides institutional foreign exchange (FX) trading and non-deliverable forward FX transactions. This comprehensive suite of services positions Cboe Global Markets as a key partner for institutional investors, brokers, traders, and other financial market participants seeking access to liquid, transparent, and regulated markets for derivatives, equities, currencies, and various investment vehicles globally.

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The Nasdaq for global options, futures, and FX trading.

Like CME Group, but also operating major stock exchanges worldwide.

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  • Options Trading: Facilitates the trading of listed options, including those on market indices.
  • Equities Trading: Operates exchanges for trading U.S., Canadian, and pan-European listed equities.
  • Futures Trading: Provides platforms for trading various futures contracts.
  • Exchange-Traded Products (ETP) Trading: Offers transaction services for a wide range of exchange-traded products.
  • Foreign Exchange (FX) Trading: Delivers institutional foreign exchange trading and non-deliverable forward FX transaction services.
  • Listing Services: Provides services for listing exchange-traded products, equities, and other financial instruments.
  • Clearing Services: Offers clearing services for various traded instruments, particularly in European and Asia Pacific markets.

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Cboe Global Markets (CBOE) operates as a global exchange. Its primary customers are not individual retail investors but rather a broad range of financial institutions and market participants who utilize its trading platforms and listing services. Due to the nature of an exchange business, Cboe serves a vast network of participants rather than having a few named "major customers" in the traditional sense.

The major categories of customers Cboe serves are:

  • Broker-Dealer Firms and Financial Institutions: These entities connect investors (both institutional and retail) to Cboe's markets, executing trades in options, equities, futures, and foreign exchange. They pay transaction fees, market data fees, and other service charges for accessing Cboe's platforms.
  • Professional Trading Firms and Market Makers: These firms actively participate on Cboe's exchanges to provide liquidity and engage in proprietary trading across various asset classes. Their high trading volumes contribute significantly to Cboe's transaction-based revenues.
  • Exchange-Traded Product (ETP) Issuers: Companies that create and offer exchange-traded products, such as ETPs, exchange-traded commodities, and international depository receipts, list these products on Cboe's exchanges and pay listing fees and associated service charges.

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  • MSCI Inc. (MSCI)
  • DJI Opco, LLC
  • FTSE International Limited
  • Frank Russell Company
  • S&P Dow Jones Indices, LLC

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Craig Donohue

Chief Executive Officer and President

Craig Donohue became the Chief Executive Officer of Cboe Global Markets in May 2025, also assuming the title of President upon the departure of David Howson in August 2025. Prior to joining Cboe, Donohue served as Chairman of the Board of Directors at OCC (Options Clearing Corporation) from January 2024, after being Executive Chairman and CEO of OCC for three years starting in 2016. He initially joined OCC as Executive Chairman in January 2014. Before his time at OCC, Donohue was the Chief Executive Officer of CME Group from January 2004 until May 2012. During his tenure at CME Group, he spearheaded mergers and acquisitions totaling over $20 billion, including the significant merger with the Chicago Board of Trade in 2007 and the acquisition of both the New York Mercantile Exchange and the Commodity Exchange Inc. in 2008.

Jill Griebenow

Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer

Jill Griebenow is the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Cboe Global Markets, a role she assumed effective July 10, 2023. In this position, she is responsible for all financial activities of the company, encompassing accounting, finance, tax, investor relations, treasury, and capital markets. Prior to her appointment as CFO, Griebenow served as the Senior Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer at Cboe since 2018. She also held the position of Chief Financial Officer of Cboe Europe. Griebenow began her career at Cboe in 2011 as a Financial Reporting Specialist. Before joining Cboe, she was a Senior Manager at Ernst & Young (EY), where her work focused on auditing public companies within the asset management and financial services sectors. She has over two decades of experience in the financial and public accounting industries.

Scott Johnston

Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer

Scott Johnston was appointed Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer of Cboe Global Markets, effective March 6, 2026. He assumed this role after Chris Isaacson retired.

Patrick Sexton

Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary

Patrick Sexton has served as Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary at Cboe Global Markets since March 1, 2018. Before this, he was the Deputy General Counsel of the company's subsidiary, Cboe Exchange, Inc., a position he held since July 2013. Sexton has accumulated extensive experience as legal, regulatory, and compliance counsel since joining Cboe in 1997. He played a key role in Cboe's demutualization in 2010 and the acquisition of Bats Global Markets in 2017.

Prashant Bhatia

Executive Vice President, Head of Enterprise Strategy & Corporate Development

Prashant Bhatia serves as the Executive Vice President, Head of Enterprise Strategy & Corporate Development at Cboe Global Markets. In this capacity, he collaborates with the executive leadership team to formulate and implement the company's enterprise business strategy, focusing on identifying opportunities for growth to enhance Cboe's market leadership. Bhatia brings over three decades of experience in the financial services industry, having previously held positions as a Finance Manager at Morgan Stanley & Co. and a Senior Associate at Coopers & Lybrand L.L.P.

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The key risks to Cboe Global Markets (CBOE) include intense market competition, the evolving regulatory landscape, and the potential loss of exclusive rights to its key proprietary products.

  1. Market Competition and Off-Exchange Trading: Cboe operates within a highly competitive financial exchange industry, facing rivalry from other established exchanges, emerging fintech firms, and the increasing prevalence of off-exchange trading. This intense competition can lead to a decline in market share, as seen in its U.S. Equities segment, and exert downward pressure on pricing and profitability. The existence of "copycat OTC options" further exemplifies this risk, as these off-exchange, privately-negotiated agreements can divert liquidity away from Cboe's listed markets.
  2. Regulatory Changes and Scrutiny: As an exchange operator, Cboe is subject to a complex and dynamic regulatory environment. Changes in regulations or increased scrutiny can significantly impact its business model and revenue streams. Specific concerns include potential regulatory caps on Zero-Days-to-Expiration (0DTE) options, which have been a significant driver of trading volumes, and the European Union's ban on Payment for Order Flow (PFOF) which could disrupt retail liquidity in its European operations. Additionally, Cboe's attempts to define what constitutes a "facility" of the exchange have triggered debate regarding regulatory oversight.
  3. Loss of Exclusive Rights to Key Proprietary Products: A substantial portion of Cboe's earnings is derived from its proprietary products, such as S&P 500 Index (SPX) options and Cboe Volatility Index (VIX) options. There is a specific risk that Cboe may not be able to maintain its exclusive trading rights for S&P 500 options. Its current agreement with S&P Global is in place through 2032, but renewal is not guaranteed, and S&P Global could potentially seek less favorable terms, which would negatively impact Cboe's future revenue.

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Addressable Market Sizes for Cboe Global Markets' Main Products and Services

  • Options Segment:
    • Global listed options trading volume: 108.2 billion contracts in 2023.
    • U.S. listed options trading volume: 15.2 billion contracts in 2025.
    • U.S. index options average daily volume: 5 million contracts in 2025.
  • North American Equities Segment:
    • U.S. stock market capitalization: $60.1 trillion as of February 2025.
    • Canadian equities market capitalization: $2.75 trillion USD in 2023.
    • Global Exchange-Traded Products (ETP) assets under management (AUM): $19.85 trillion at the end of December 2025.
  • Futures Segment:
    • Global listed futures trading volume: 29.1 billion contracts in 2023.
    • Global futures trading service market size: $5.2 billion in 2023, projected to reach $10.8 billion by 2032.
  • Europe and Asia Pacific Segment:
    • European stock markets market capitalization: Approximately €22.71 trillion in 2025 (approximately $24.75 trillion USD, using an approximate conversion rate of 1 EUR = 1.09 USD).
    • Asia Pacific public equity market capitalization: $34.4 trillion in 2024.
    • Specific current European ETP AUM: Null
    • Specific current Asia Pacific ETP AUM: Null
    • Specific European or Asia Pacific derivatives market size (notional/volume): Null (global listed options and futures figures apply, see Options and Futures segments above).
  • Global FX Segment:
    • Global daily foreign exchange (FX) turnover: Over $7.5 trillion per day in 2022.
    • Global Over-The-Counter (OTC) FX derivatives notional outstanding: $155 trillion in June 2025.

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Cboe Global Markets (CBOE) is expected to drive future revenue growth over the next 2-3 years through several strategic initiatives and strong performance in key business areas.

1. Expansion and Innovation in Derivatives Trading: Cboe anticipates continued growth in its Derivatives segment, particularly through proprietary index options such as SPX and VIX, and the increasing adoption of Zero-Days-to-Expiration (0DTE) options. This segment has shown significant revenue increases and strong trading volumes, with 0DTE options demonstrating a substantial rise in average daily volume.

2. Geographical Expansion and International Market Penetration: The company is actively pursuing a strategy of global expansion, focusing on increasing its footprint and market share in regions like Europe and Asia Pacific. Initiatives include expanding clearing services (e.g., into the German market via Cboe Clear Europe) and onboarding more brokers in the EMEA and APAC regions. The Europe and Asia Pacific segment has already shown record net revenue growth.

3. Growth of the Data Vantage Business: Cboe's Data Vantage segment, which encompasses market data, access solutions, indices, and risk and market analytics, is a consistent revenue driver. Growth in this area is largely fueled by strong demand for new units and new sales, indicating sustained interest in their comprehensive data offerings. Cboe targets mid-to-high single-digit organic net revenue growth for Data Vantage in 2026.

4. Strategic Product Innovation and Emerging Opportunities: Cboe is committed to enhancing its product suite and exploring new growth avenues. This includes continuously developing new derivatives offerings, such as S&P 500 Equal Weight Index (EWI) options, and actively exploring emerging opportunities in event and prediction markets, as well as digital asset derivatives like Bitcoin and Ether futures.

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Share Repurchases

  • In August 2024, Cboe Global Markets authorized an additional $500 million for share repurchases, with $179.8 million remaining under existing authorizations as of July 31, 2024.
  • In October 2023, the company authorized an additional $250 million for share repurchases, with approximately $139.8 million of availability remaining under existing authorizations as of June 30, 2023.

Share Issuance

  • Cboe Global Markets has experienced a decline in shares outstanding over the last few years, with a 0.19% decline in 2025, a 0.85% decline in 2024, and a 0.47% decline in 2023, indicating net share repurchases.

Outbound Investments

  • Cboe completed the acquisition of Eris Digital Holdings, LLC (ErisX) in May 2022, which provided the company with entry into digital asset spot and derivatives markets.
  • In January 2021, Cboe completed its acquisition of BIDS Trading, a registered broker-dealer and operator of the largest block-trading ATS in the U.S., to expand its U.S. equities offerings.
  • In 2020, Cboe acquired risk analytics provider Hanweck Associates and the portfolio management platform FT Options, which were subsequently integrated into its Risk and Market Analytics Group by April 2022.

Capital Expenditures

  • Cboe Global Markets expects capital expenditures for fiscal year 2026 to be in the range of $73 million to $83 million.
  • Actual capital expenditures were $74 million in 2025, $61 million in 2024, and $45 million in 2023.

Better Bets vs. Cboe Global Markets (CBOE)

Peer Outperformance in Financial Exchanges & Data

CBOE has outperformed 100% of its 14 Financial Exchanges & Data peers over 5Y. Financial Exchanges & Data ranks 9th of 18 industries in Financials by median 5Y return.
Share of Financial Exchanges & Data constituents that CBOE has outperformed, by holding period. Peers without a full price history over a given window are excluded from that window.
1Y
86%
of 14 industry peers · 43.6% return
3Y
86%
of 14 industry peers · 113.1% return
5Y
100%
of 14 industry peers · 176.1% return
No Financial Exchanges & Data peer with a comparable growth profile has beaten CBOE by more than 20pp over 5Y.
Median price return by industry across the Financials sector, ranked by 5Y. Financial Exchanges & Data is CBOE's own industry. Use this to see which corners of the sector have carried the returns.
Industry Names 1Y med3Y med5Y med Top 3 by 5Y
Reinsurance 6 37.5%74.0%118.3% SPNT 170% · RGA 148% · RNR 138%
Investment Banking & Brokerage 13 -1.9%90.1%92.3% IBKR 314% · SNEX 159% · HOOD 140%
Diversified Banks 12 32.8%141.8%91.6% CM 142% · RY 130% · JPM 126%
Life & Health Insurance 20 17.2%52.4%78.2% JXN 536% · UNM 303% · FG 188%
Property & Casualty Insurance 42 21.7%72.7%65.0% PGR 176% · TRV 176% · ACGL 166%
Multi-line Insurance 9 10.2%68.9%63.6% AIZ 100% · GNW 98% · L 97%
Multi-Sector Holdings 3 9.8%52.4%57.5% BRK-B 93% · VOYA 57% · JEF 35%
Regional Banks 262 34.5%91.3%53.5% CBC 263% · FCNCA 189% · NIC 146%
Financial Exchanges & Data ← 15 19.8%33.8%32.6% CBOE 176% · VIRT 144% · CME 71%
Insurance Brokers 15 5.3%11.6%26.0% LIFE 387% · ARX 89% · AJG 80%
Asset Management & Custody Banks 85 -6.1%21.7%8.8% VCTR 257% · WT 230% · AAMI 191%
Consumer Finance 30 5.9%72.9%5.4% ENVA 397% · FCFS 137% · AXP 101%
Diversified Financial Services 4 -5.1%18.6%3.3% FRHC 171% · EQH 80%
Commercial & Residential Mortgage Finance 14 -48.7%20.2%-0.2% FNMA 448% · FMCC 399% · ACT 167%
Specialized Finance 3 8.4%31.0%-20.6% HASI -21% · CACC -28%
Transaction & Payment Processing Services 17 15.8%17.6%-22.2% V 111% · MA 106% · CPAY 69%
Mortgage REITs 35 -19.0%-7.6%-35.2% RITM 35% · DX 18% · AGNC 11%
Diversified Capital Markets 20 -58.1%2.5%-68.4% LPLA 80% · TW 39% · WULF -60%
Median of constituents with a full price history over each window. Top names are limited to companies above $2B market cap.

Latest Trefis Analyses

Recent Active Movers

Peer Comparisons

Peers to compare with:

Financials

CBOECMEICENDAQSPGIMCOMedian
NameCboe Glo.CME GroupIntercon.Nasdaq S&P Glob.Moodys  
Mkt Price349.15306.49171.85108.60473.77503.00327.82
Mkt Cap36.5109.796.460.7138.186.991.7
Rev LTM5,2786,97214,0499,14917,2148,1768,662
Op Inc LTM1,8754,5785,8242,7927,1163,7564,167
FCF LTM2,5304,3334,8312,2585,8402,9773,655
FCF 3Y Avg1,5714,0154,1191,9395,2922,5673,291
CFO LTM2,6264,4275,7612,5465,9953,3293,878
CFO 3Y Avg1,6464,1024,9092,1775,4452,8963,499

Growth & Margins

CBOECMEICENDAQSPGIMCOMedian
NameCboe Glo.CME GroupIntercon.Nasdaq S&P Glob.Moodys  
Rev Chg LTM14.3%9.0%12.1%11.5%18.2%9.0%11.8%
Rev Chg 3Y Avg11.6%9.3%13.5%15.1%12.0%12.7%12.4%
Rev Chg Q19.0%13.0%20.7%20.9%6.8%0.8%16.0%
QoQ Delta Rev Chg LTM4.3%2.9%4.6%4.7%1.4%0.2%3.6%
Op Inc Chg LTM35.5%10.1%20.4%20.2%20.4%14.3%20.3%
Op Inc Chg 3Y Avg22.6%12.3%14.9%17.5%22.7%22.4%19.9%
Op Mgn LTM35.5%65.7%41.5%30.5%41.3%45.9%41.4%
Op Mgn 3Y Avg31.7%64.8%39.3%28.6%39.7%43.9%39.5%
QoQ Delta Op Mgn LTM0.2%0.6%0.1%0.1%0.6%-0.2%0.2%
CFO/Rev LTM49.7%63.5%41.0%27.8%34.8%40.7%40.9%
CFO/Rev 3Y Avg35.2%63.3%38.6%26.6%36.0%38.4%37.2%
FCF/Rev LTM47.9%62.1%34.4%24.7%33.9%36.4%35.4%
FCF/Rev 3Y Avg33.6%62.0%32.4%23.7%35.0%34.0%33.8%

Valuation

CBOECMEICENDAQSPGIMCOMedian
NameCboe Glo.CME GroupIntercon.Nasdaq S&P Glob.Moodys  
Mkt Cap36.5109.796.460.7138.186.991.7
P/S6.915.76.96.68.010.67.5
P/Op Inc19.524.016.621.719.423.120.6
P/EBIT17.618.515.220.617.722.018.1
P/E24.624.823.229.127.730.126.3
P/CFO13.924.816.723.823.026.123.4
Total Yield4.9%7.8%5.5%4.5%4.4%4.1%4.7%
Dividend Yield0.9%3.7%1.2%1.1%0.8%0.8%1.0%
FCF Yield 3Y Avg6.2%4.5%4.5%4.0%3.9%3.1%4.2%
D/E0.00.00.20.20.10.10.1
Net D/E-0.00.00.20.10.10.10.1

Returns

CBOECMEICENDAQSPGIMCOMedian
NameCboe Glo.CME GroupIntercon.Nasdaq S&P Glob.Moodys  
1M Rtn28.7%16.5%14.5%20.2%22.7%14.0%18.3%
3M Rtn17.6%15.7%13.6%15.8%14.1%4.3%14.9%
6M Rtn3.5%6.6%10.6%19.8%17.9%12.4%11.5%
12M Rtn43.6%19.9%19.0%28.7%3.3%5.6%19.5%
3Y Rtn113.1%66.9%65.3%125.2%33.4%55.5%66.1%
1M Excs Rtn31.1%18.8%16.8%22.6%25.0%16.3%20.7%
3M Excs Rtn23.9%19.8%18.1%18.9%17.6%6.7%18.5%
6M Excs Rtn-1.2%1.9%5.9%15.0%13.2%7.7%6.8%
12M Excs Rtn38.4%10.6%6.7%17.9%-8.2%-4.5%8.6%
3Y Excs Rtn38.1%-20.7%-15.8%45.2%-35.4%-15.6%-15.7%

Comparison Analyses

null

Financials

Segment Financials

Revenue by Segment
$ Mil20252024202320222021
Options2,4342,0031,9401,8231,505
North American Equities1,6721,5471,3531,6821,570
Europe and Asia Pacific379324281265240
Futures136141129120121
Global FX9480756958
Corporate Items and Eliminations00000
Digital0-0-400
Total4,7144,0943,7743,9583,495


Operating Income by Segment
$ Mil20252024202320222021
Options1,113878851740538
North American Equities188169118147156
Futures7499865566
Europe and Asia Pacific5442333856
Global FX46332593
Digital0-112-47-4910
Corporate Items and Eliminations-8-10-8-8-13
Total1,4671,0981,058490806


Net Income by Segment
$ Mil2025202420232022
Options739581576480
North American Equities164149105126
Futures63705313
Corporate Items and Eliminations54-1418-45
Global FX4633249
Europe and Asia Pacific33252023
Digital0-79-34-371
Total1,100765761235


Price Behavior

Price Behavior
Market Price$349.22 
Market Cap ($ Bil)36.5 
First Trading Date06/15/2010 
Distance from 52W High-4.3% 
   50 Days200 Days
DMA Price$295.49$291.90
DMA Trendupup
Distance from DMA18.2%19.6%
 3M1YR
Volatility39.7%36.5%
Downside Capture-137.60-68.59
Upside Capture-29.09-12.02
Correlation (S&P 500)-33.0%-17.0%
CBOE Betas & Captures as of 10/31/2026

 1M2M3M6M1Y3Y
Beta-2.14-1.45-1.46-0.90-0.48-0.29
Up Beta-2.92-0.63-1.85-0.80-0.69-0.30
Down Beta-3.92-2.92-3.03-0.78-0.45-0.30
Up Capture35%-69%-62%-60%-10%-1%
Bmk +ve Days12182862130427
Stock +ve Days14213165138398
Down Capture-294%-181%-152%-158%-125%-189%
Bmk -ve Days10253664121325
Stock -ve Days8223361113352

[1] Upside and downside betas calculated using positive and negative benchmark daily returns respectively
Based On 1-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with CBOE
CBOE49.2%36.5%1.15-
Sector ETF (XLF)11.6%14.6%0.520.0%
Equity (SPY)11.6%12.8%0.57-17.2%
Gold (GLD)-2.3%28.6%-0.09-9.3%
Commodities (DBC)43.1%20.9%1.608.6%
Real Estate (VNQ)11.0%13.7%0.5015.3%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)-28.8%43.6%-0.663.9%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How
Based On 5-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with CBOE
CBOE23.6%25.4%0.81-
Sector ETF (XLF)9.0%18.3%0.3516.1%
Equity (SPY)12.0%17.1%0.528.5%
Gold (GLD)16.5%19.0%0.69-0.6%
Commodities (DBC)8.4%19.6%0.315.8%
Real Estate (VNQ)1.1%18.9%-0.0520.1%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)4.1%51.6%0.268.2%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How
Based On 10-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with CBOE
CBOE20.1%26.5%0.71-
Sector ETF (XLF)13.4%22.1%0.5533.8%
Equity (SPY)15.2%17.9%0.7228.3%
Gold (GLD)11.6%16.5%0.571.5%
Commodities (DBC)7.8%18.1%0.3412.1%
Real Estate (VNQ)5.4%20.7%0.2233.3%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)61.7%66.3%1.017.0%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How

Short Interest

Short Interest: As Of Date10152026
Short Interest: Shares Quantity3.0 Mil
Short Interest: % Change Since 9302026-10.8%
Average Daily Volume1.3 Mil
Days-to-Cover Short Interest2.3 days
Basic Shares Quantity104.5 Mil
Short % of Basic Shares2.8%

Earnings Returns History

Updated 11/3/2026
Expand for More
 Forward Returns
Earnings Date1D Returns5D Returns21D Returns
10/30/20266.8%  
7/31/20264.6%-2.5%4.7%
5/1/20269.0%12.8%0.5%
2/6/2026-0.7%-1.7%9.0%
10/31/20253.7%6.7%7.7%
8/1/20252.8%3.5%-1.8%
5/2/20252.3%3.1%4.8%
2/7/20252.0%0.6%6.1%
...
SUMMARY STATS   
# Positive171517
# Negative786
Median Positive3.1%4.0%6.1%
Median Negative-1.7%-3.3%-1.5%
Max Positive9.0%12.8%12.0%
Max Negative-5.8%-7.5%-4.2%
Collapse to Preview
 Forward Returns
Earnings Date1D Returns5D Returns21D Returns
10/30/20266.8%  
7/31/20264.6%-2.5%4.7%
5/1/20269.0%12.8%0.5%
2/6/2026-0.7%-1.7%9.0%
10/31/20253.7%6.7%7.7%
8/1/20252.8%3.5%-1.8%
5/2/20252.3%3.1%4.8%
2/7/20252.0%0.6%6.1%
11/1/2024-1.7%-6.5%-0.5%
8/2/20244.3%9.9%10.9%
5/3/20243.2%5.1%0.8%
2/2/2024-1.1%-0.3%2.8%
11/3/20234.1%8.3%12.0%
8/4/20234.0%6.0%7.8%
5/5/2023-0.4%1.4%-1.1%
2/3/20232.8%4.0%4.1%
11/4/20222.7%-3.2%2.3%
7/29/2022-1.8%-5.2%-4.2%
4/29/2022-2.0%-3.5%-2.5%
2/4/20223.1%3.8%0.2%
10/29/20210.6%1.0%-0.8%
7/30/20212.2%4.4%8.2%
4/30/20211.0%3.8%8.1%
2/5/2021-5.8%-7.5%11.3%
SUMMARY STATS   
# Positive171517
# Negative786
Median Positive3.1%4.0%6.1%
Median Negative-1.7%-3.3%-1.5%
Max Positive9.0%12.8%12.0%
Max Negative-5.8%-7.5%-4.2%

SEC Filings

Expand for More
Report DateFiling DateFiling
09/30/202610/30/202610-Q
06/30/202607/31/202610-Q
03/31/202605/01/202610-Q
12/31/202502/20/202610-K
09/30/202510/31/202510-Q
06/30/202508/01/202510-Q
03/31/202505/02/202510-Q
12/31/202402/21/202510-K
09/30/202411/01/202410-Q
06/30/202408/02/202410-Q
03/31/202405/03/202410-Q
12/31/202302/16/202410-K
09/30/202311/03/202310-Q
06/30/202308/04/202310-Q
03/31/202305/05/202310-Q
12/31/202202/17/202310-K
Collapse to Preview
Report DateFiling DateFiling
09/30/202610/30/202610-Q
06/30/202607/31/202610-Q
03/31/202605/01/202610-Q
12/31/202502/20/202610-K
09/30/202510/31/202510-Q
06/30/202508/01/202510-Q
03/31/202505/02/202510-Q
12/31/202402/21/202510-K
09/30/202411/01/202410-Q
06/30/202408/02/202410-Q
03/31/202405/03/202410-Q
12/31/202302/16/202410-K
09/30/202311/03/202310-Q
06/30/202308/04/202310-Q
03/31/202305/05/202310-Q
12/31/202202/17/202310-K
09/30/202211/04/202210-Q
06/30/202207/29/202210-Q
03/31/202204/29/202210-Q
12/31/202102/18/202210-K
09/30/202110/29/202110-Q
06/30/202107/30/202110-Q
03/31/202104/30/202110-Q
12/31/202002/19/202110-K
09/30/202010/30/202010-Q
06/30/202007/31/202010-Q
03/31/202005/01/202010-Q
12/31/201902/21/202010-K

Recent Forward Guidance

Updated 10/31/2026

Latest: Q3 2026 Earnings Reported 10/30/2026

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricSourceLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
2026 Amortization of Acquired Intangible AssetsReported 59.00 Mil    
2026 Depreciation and Amortization ExpenseReported54.00 Mil56.00 Mil58.00 Mil0 AffirmedGuidance: 56.00 Mil for 2026
2026 Organic Total Net Revenue GrowthReported     RaisedGuidance: 17.0% for 2026
2026 Data Vantage Organic Net Revenue GrowthReported     RaisedGuidance: 12.0% for 2026
2026 Adjusted Operating ExpensesReported830.00 Mil837.50 Mil845.00 Mil-0.9% LoweredGuidance: 845.50 Mil for 2026
2026 Effective Tax Rate on Adjusted EarningsReported27.5%28.5%29.5% 0AffirmedGuidance: 28.5% for 2026
2026 Capital ExpendituresReported98.00 Mil103.00 Mil108.00 Mil0 AffirmedGuidance: 103.00 Mil for 2026


Prior: Q2 2026 Earnings Reported 7/31/2026

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricSourceLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
2026 Depreciation and AmortizationReported54.00 Mil56.00 Mil58.00 Mil  LoweredGuidance: 58.00 Mil for 2026
2026 Organic Total Net Revenue GrowthReported15.0%17.0%  4.5%RaisedGuidance: 12.5% for 2026
2026 Data Vantage Organic Net Revenue GrowthReported11.0%12.0%  2.0%RaisedGuidance: 10.0% for 2026
2026 Adjusted Operating ExpensesReported838.00 Mil845.50 Mil853.00 Mil0 AffirmedGuidance: 845.50 Mil for 2026
2026 Effective Tax RateReported27.5%28.5%29.5%00AffirmedGuidance: 28.5% for 2026
2026 Capital ExpendituresReported98.00 Mil103.00 Mil108.00 Mil  RaisedGuidance: 78.00 Mil for 2026

Q1 2026 Earnings Reported 5/1/2026

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricSourceLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
2026 Depreciation and Amortization ExpenseReported56.00 Mil58.00 Mil60.00 Mil0 AffirmedGuidance: 58.00 Mil for 2026
2026 Organic Total Net Revenue GrowthReported10.0%12.5%15.0%150.0%7.5%RaisedGuidance: 5.0% for 2026
2026 Data Vantage Organic Net Revenue GrowthReported 10.0% 42.9%3.0%RaisedGuidance: 7.0% for 2026
2026 Adjusted Operating ExpensesReported838.00 Mil845.50 Mil853.00 Mil-3.0% LoweredGuidance: 871.50 Mil for 2026
2026 Effective Tax Rate on Adjusted EarningsReported27.5%28.5%29.5%00AffirmedGuidance: 28.5% for 2026
2026 Capital ExpendituresReported73.00 Mil78.00 Mil83.00 Mil0 AffirmedGuidance: 78.00 Mil for 2026

Q4 2025 Earnings Reported 2/6/2026

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricSourceLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
2026 Depreciation and Amortization ExpenseReported56.00 Mil58.00 Mil60.00 Mil11.5% Higher NewGuidance: 52.00 Mil for 2025
2026 Organic Total Net Revenue GrowthReported 5.0% -60.0%-7.5%Lower NewGuidance: 12.5% for 2025
2026 Data Vantage Organic Net Revenue GrowthReported 7.0% -26.3%-2.5%Lower NewGuidance: 9.5% for 2025
2026 Adjusted Operating ExpensesReported864.00 Mil871.50 Mil879.00 Mil4.4% Higher NewGuidance: 834.50 Mil for 2025
2026 Effective Tax Rate on Adjusted EarningsReported27.5%28.5%29.5% -1.0%Lower NewGuidance: 29.5% for 2025
2026 Capital ExpendituresReported73.00 Mil78.00 Mil83.00 Mil0 Same NewGuidance: 78.00 Mil for 2025

Insider Activity

Updated 8/21/2026
Expand for More
#OwnerTitleHoldingActionFiling DatePriceSharesTransacted
Value
Value of
Held Shares
Form
1Froetscher, Janet PDirectSell8142026278.95937261,3763,590,086Form
2Froetscher, Janet PDirectSell5202026358.091,223437,9444,944,149Form
3Wilkinson, AllenSVP, CHIEF ACCOUNTING OFFICERDirectSell2252026292.7924872,612120,044Form
4Matturri, Alexander JRDirectSell2202026285.361,500428,0401,358,599Form
5Fitzpatrick, Edward JDirectSell2202026285.873,9471,128,3293,693,726Form
Collapse to Preview
#OwnerTitleHoldingActionFiling DatePriceSharesTransacted
Value
Value of
Held Shares
Form
1Froetscher, Janet PDirectSell8142026278.95937261,3763,590,086Form
2Froetscher, Janet PDirectSell5202026358.091,223437,9444,944,149Form
3Wilkinson, AllenSVP, CHIEF ACCOUNTING OFFICERDirectSell2252026292.7924872,612120,044Form
4Matturri, Alexander JRDirectSell2202026285.361,500428,0401,358,599Form
5Fitzpatrick, Edward JDirectSell2202026285.873,9471,128,3293,693,726Form
6Isaacson, Christopher AEVP, COODirectSell9042025236.665,0001,183,3008,893,683Form

Investor Activity (13F)

Updated Nov 3, 2026
13F holdings as of Mar 31, 2026 (Q1 2026)

Active managers (13F portfolio over $250M, at least 3 holdings) with a position over $5M that is either over 10% of their portfolio or held in a concentrated book of 50 or fewer total positions. Index/ETF, sovereign, bank, community-bank and charitable/donor-advised filers are excluded.

Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
Caldwell Investment Management Ltd.$33.4 Mil13.1%57Hold13F
Martin Investment Management, LLC$9.1 Mil2.7%46Hold13F
First Washington CORP$6.5 Mil1.8%50ADD +33.0%13F
Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
First Washington CORP$6.5 Mil1.8%50ADD +33.0%13F
Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
FFG Partners, LLC$15.6 Mil4.5%39Exited13F
Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
Caldwell Investment Management Ltd.$33.4 Mil13.1%57Hold13F
Martin Investment Management, LLC$9.1 Mil2.7%46Hold13F
First Washington CORP$6.5 Mil1.8%50ADD +33.0%13F

CBOE Trade Sentinel


Stock Conviction

High Conviction

CONVICTION RATIONALE

Cboe's core profit engine is secured by a new 25-year exclusive license for S&P index options. This moat underpins accelerating revenue growth, with full-year 2026 guidance raised to the 'high teens'. New products like KPI event contracts and strong international demand provide clear avenues for continued expansion, supported by excellent cash generation.

STOCK ARCHETYPE
Hybrid Transactional & Recurring

(Trading Volume x Revenue per Contract) + (Number of Subscribers x Subscription Price) Mix shift towards higher-margin, proprietary index options (SPX, VIX) and growth in the high-margin, recurring DataVantage business.

Looking for high-conviction positions with a better risk/reward profile? See what's currently in the Trefis High Quality Portfolio.
INVESTMENT THESIS
Is the proprietary derivatives franchise a durable, long-term compounder?

Evidence suggests yes. The core S&P license was extended to 2051, securing the moat, while secular trends are driving record volumes.

Mechanism: Profit growth is driven by rising index options volume (up 24% YoY), a favorable mix shift, and pricing power, which increased revenue per contract by 9% in Q3. New products and international expansion provide further upside.
Supporting Evidence:
  • Signed a 25-year extension of its exclusive S&P license through 2051.
  • Q3 index options average daily volume grew 24% year-over-year to 6.1 million contracts.
  • Revenue per contract for the options business rose 9% year-over-year in Q3 2026.
  • Raised 2026 total organic net revenue growth guidance to the 'high teens'.
  • Short-dated (0DTE) options now represent a record 65% of total SPX activity.
PRIMARY RISK
Peak Volumes and Regulatory Drag

Record volumes in short-dated options could be a cyclical peak, not a new normal. While YoY growth in index options ADV is strong at 24%, it has decelerated. New equity market rules in November 2026 could also impact transaction revenue.

Mechanism: A sustained decline in index options average daily volume would signal the core growth driver is reversing.
Supporting Evidence:
  • Index options ADV YoY growth decelerated from 34% in Q1 to 24% in Q3 2026.
  • SEC's 'Tick Size/Access Fee Cap' rules are expected to be implemented in November 2026.
  • The company competes with 14 other U.S. options exchanges as of year-end 2025.
  • Accounts receivable grew 26.9% YoY in Q3, outpacing revenue growth of 19%.
Key KPI Watchlist
KPI Status Rationale
Index Options Average Daily Volume (ADV)6.1 million contracts in Q3 2026 - DeceleratingThe year-over-year growth rate has decelerated from 34% in Q1 and 32% in Q2, and absolute volume dipped slightly sequentially. However, growth remains robust and is driven by strong retail and international engagement, with management noting retail volume in SPX 0DTE products jumped 46% year-over-year.
DataVantage Net Revenue Growth13% year-over-year growth in Q3 2026 - DeceleratingWhile the YoY growth rate has moderated through the year, the company raised its full-year 2026 organic growth guidance for the segment to the mid-teens range, up from low-teens previously, citing strong new subscription and unit sales.
0DTE Activity as % of SPX Activity65% (Q3 2026)Indicates the significant and growing demand for short-dated options, a key growth driver within the lucrative SPX franchise, fueled by both retail and institutional traders.
Retail Share of SPX 0DTE Volume58% (Q3 2026)Measures the engagement of retail investors, a crucial and expanding customer segment that is driving significant volume growth in high-frequency products.
Core Investment Debate

Secular Shift or Speculative Peak?

BULL VIEW

Secular adoption by retail and international users, plus new products, are creating a structurally higher base for derivatives demand. The 25-year license extension provides a long runway to compound this growth.

CORE TENSION

Can new product adoption and international expansion offset a potential cyclical peak in 0DTE volumes, which showed decelerating YoY growth in Q3?


PREVAILING SENTIMENT
BULLISH

The latest evidence favors the bull case. Management raised full-year 2026 revenue guidance after Q3 results, suggesting confidence in the durability of current volume trends.

BEAR VIEW

Record 0DTE volumes, now 65% of SPX activity, represent a speculative frenzy. Decelerating YoY growth in index options ADV from 34% to 24% signals a reversion to the mean is beginning.

Next 6 months: Risks and Catalysts
Timeline Event & Metric To Watch
November 2026
Regulatory Impact on Transaction Fees
Watch: Company commentary on the Q4 earnings call regarding the initial impact of the new equity market structure rules.
December 17, 2026
Adverse CAT Funding Ruling
Watch: The 11th Circuit court's ruling on the Revised CAT Funding Model and any further reserve actions by the company.
December 17, 2026
CAT Funding Model Litigation
Watch: Oral argument is scheduled for the litigation concerning the 2026 Revised CAT Funding Model Order.
1/27/2027
Nasdaq Earnings Report
Watch: Peer Nasdaq (NDAQ) is scheduled to report earnings.
2/2/2027
CME Group Earnings Report
Watch: Peer CME Group (CME) is scheduled to report earnings.
2/4/2027
Company Earnings Report
Watch: The company is scheduled to report its next quarterly earnings.
Jan-Feb 2027
Intensifying Peer Competition
Watch: Peer commentary on options market share, pricing strategies, or new product launches that directly compete with CBOE's high-margin derivatives.
first quarter of 2027
Senior Notes Repayment
Watch: The company anticipates repaying $650 million of senior notes maturing in the first quarter of 2027 with cash on hand.
November
KPI Event Contracts Launch
Watch: The company anticipates a product launch for its company KPI event contracts in November.
December
Cash Equities Extended Hours
Watch: The company plans to extend cash equities trading to a 23x5 basis in December, pending industry readiness.
Key Events in Last 6 Months
Date Event Stock Impact
2026-10-30
Guidance Raised for 2026
Details: On October 30, 2026, the company raised its guidance for 2026 Organic Total Net Revenue Growth and lowered its guidance for 2026 Adjusted Operating Expenses.
+6.8%
$314.25 -> $335.53
2026-10-30
Third Quarter Earnings Beat
Details: The company reported Q3 adjusted diluted EPS of $3.63, a 36% increase year-over-year. The stock had a two-day reaction of 7.0% around the October 30, 2026 earnings call.
+6.8%
$314.25 -> $335.53
2026-10-30
S&P License Extension Secured
Details: At the end of September, the company signed a 25-year extension of its exclusive licensing agreement with S&P Dow Jones Indices, continuing the collaboration through 2051.
+6.8%
$314.25 -> $335.53
2026-10-30
Cboe Predicts Product Launch
Details: In June, the company launched its first Cboe Predicts product, which are binary options on the Mini-S&P 500 Index.
+6.8%
$314.25 -> $335.53
2026-08-25
Rival Challenges Product Launches
Details: A press report noted that prediction market Kalshi asked federal regulators to delay product launches from Cboe, highlighting competitive friction.
+1.3%
$307.24 -> $311.33
2026-07-31
Sale of Cboe Australia
Details: The company completed the sale of its Cboe Australia business to TMX Group Limited on July 31, 2026, resulting in a net gain of $71.5 million in Q3.
+0.4%
$295.70 -> $297.01
2026-05-01
First Quarter Earnings Beat
Details: The company reported Q1 earnings, leading to a two-day stock reaction of 13.0% around the May 1, 2026 earnings call.
+12.9%
$298.63 -> $337.26
Risk Management
Position Sizing

4% - 6%

NORMAL POSITION

Sizing is volatility-based: CBOE trades at roughly 38% annualized realized (three-month) volatility versus about 10% for the S&P 500 (3.7x the market). A 4% - 6% position keeps a single-name swing of that size within a diversified portfolio's risk budget.

Diversification Alternatives
CME - CME Group
Higher-Margin Derivatives Peer

Offers exposure to a different mix of derivatives, primarily in interest rates, commodities, and energy, with significantly higher operating margins of 65.7%.

Core Thesis: A play on global macroeconomic volatility and the continued electronification of rates and commodities trading.
ICE - Intercontinental Exchange
Diversified Scale Leader

Provides greater scale with revenue 2.7 times larger than Cboe's, and a different business mix including energy futures, fixed income data, and mortgage technology.

Core Thesis: A diversified market infrastructure provider benefiting from secular trends in data services and the digitization of the mortgage industry.
How Is The Market Pricing CBOE?

A derivatives toll road with a powerful moat, monetizing market volatility and secular options adoption through exclusive, high-margin index products.

Cboe's value is anchored in its exclusive, long-term license to trade options on the S&P 500 (SPX) and its proprietary VIX products. This forms a high-margin derivatives franchise that is benefiting from strong secular tailwinds, including rising retail participation and international demand. The company is sharpening its focus on this core by divesting non-essential assets, while simultaneously planting seeds for future growth in adjacent areas like event contracts and expanded clearing services.

What will confirm the thesis

Sustained double-digit growth in index options ADV, successful launch and scaling of KPI event contracts, and continued margin expansion from favorable mix shift.

What will damage the thesis

Any regulatory action that threatens the exclusivity of its index licenses, a structural decline in market volatility that dampens trading demand, or a failure of new products to gain traction.

Noise: Real but irrelevant to thesis

Minor market share fluctuations in the competitive multi-listed options or cash equities segments; quarterly volatility in the Futures segment.

Repricing Catalyst

The successful launch of company KPI event contracts, which opens a new product category, and the market's full pricing-in of the long-term earnings certainty provided by the 25-year S&P license extension.

What CBOE Makes & Who Pays
TTM figures based on fiscal year 2025 filings (the latest reported segment data)
Options
$2.4B TTM (52% of Total) · 46% Margin
What It Is

This segment offers trading in options on market indices (e.g., SPX options), individual stocks, and ETPs to broker-dealers, institutional investors, and professional traders. It also includes revenues from market data, index licensing, and access services related to options.

Who Pays & How

Broker-dealers and trading firms pay transaction fees to execute trades for themselves or their clients (retail and institutional investors). They use Cboe's options markets, particularly the exclusive SPX and VIX products, for hedging, income generation, and expressing views on market volatility.

Transaction fees are based on various models including price-time or pro-rata allocation for proprietary products, and payment-for-order-flow or maker-taker models for multi-listed products. Fees are also generated from data licensing and access services.
Competition
As of late 2025, Cboe's four options exchanges compete with 14 other U.S. options exchanges, with two more anticipated to launch.
Competitors use aggressive pricing, rebates, and partnerships with order flow providers to attract multi-listed options business.
Exclusive U.S. rights to list and trade flagship proprietary products like options on the S&P 500 Index (SPX) and the Cboe Volatility Index (VIX), which contribute substantially to volumes and revenues.
North American Equities
$1.7B TTM (35% of Total) · 11% Margin
What It Is

Provides U.S. and Canadian equities and ETP transaction services on its electronic exchanges (BZX, BYX, EDGX, EDGA) and BIDS trading platforms. It also offers ETP listing services and sells related market data and access services.

Who Pays & How

SEC-registered broker-dealers and Canadian registered investment dealers pay transaction and data fees to execute equity trades. They use Cboe's multiple venues for order execution, which offer various market and pricing models.

Transaction fees are based on maker-taker, taker-maker, and price-time models. The segment also earns revenue from ETP listings and the sale of proprietary market data and access services.
Competition
Competes with 13 other U.S. equities exchanges and over 25 Alternative Trading Systems (ATSs) and single-dealer platforms.
Market participants have numerous on-exchange and off-exchange venues for order execution, leading to intense price competition.
Operates as the third-largest equities exchange operator in the U.S., offering a diverse set of market models and a leading block-trading ATS through BIDS.
Europe and Asia Pacific
$379M TTM (8% of Total) · 14% Margin
What It Is

Offers pan-European equities and derivatives trading, ETP listings, and clearing services through Cboe Clear Europe. The company is in the process of selling its Cboe Australia and Cboe Canada businesses and has wound down its Japanese equities business.

Who Pays & How

EU-regulated brokerage and proprietary trading firms pay for transaction and clearing services. They use the platform for its lit and dark books, periodic auctions, and pan-European clearing capabilities.

Transaction and clearing fees, along with revenue from licensing proprietary market data and access services.
Competition
Major competitors in Europe include national stock exchanges, other pan-European MTFs, systematic internalizers, and other European clearinghouses.
The European market is competitive, particularly following the introduction of MiFID II.
Operates one of the largest equities exchanges by value traded in Europe and a leading pan-European equities clearinghouse.
Futures
$136M TTM (3% of Total) · 54% Margin
What It Is

Provides transaction services for futures products, most notably VIX futures, on its fully electronic CFE exchange. It also includes the Cboe Digital exchange and Cboe Clear U.S. clearinghouse.

Who Pays & How

Banks, futures commission merchants, hedge funds, and proprietary trading firms pay transaction fees to trade futures contracts, primarily to hedge or speculate on market volatility using VIX futures.

Transaction fees based on a price-time market model, plus revenue from licensing proprietary market data and access services.
Competition
Competes with other futures exchanges that offer similar products and over-the-counter derivatives.
Competitors may offer products with similar market exposure.
Proprietary rights to the VIX methodology, which provides the basis for its flagship VIX futures and options products.
Global FX
$94M TTM (2% of Total) · 49% Margin
What It Is

Offers institutional foreign exchange (FX) trading services on its electronic platform, as well as trading in non-deliverable forwards (NDFs) and U.S. government securities.

Who Pays & How

Institutional customers including banks, broker-dealers, and hedge funds pay transaction fees to access liquidity and execute trades in the fragmented global FX market.

Transaction fees, plus revenue from licensing proprietary market data and access services.
Competition
The global FX market is severely fragmented, with Cboe FX competing against a small number of similar electronic communication networks (ECNs) and traditional interbank platforms.
Many customers still prefer to use traditional phone, chat, and banking relationships for FX trading.
Provides a transparent, automated marketplace in a fragmented industry.
CBOE Evolution: Price Return by Era
2021-2025 · Core Derivatives Expansion
+191%
The company's revenue base grew significantly, driven by its core Options segment, which expanded from $1,505 million in revenue amid the rise of 0DTE options as a major volume driver and increasing global and retail participation.
2025-2026 · Strategic Realignment
+74%
Following a comprehensive review, Cboe began rationalizing its business portfolio to focus on core strengths. This involved winding down its Japanese equities business and European derivatives platform (CEDX), and initiating the sale of its Australian and Canadian businesses to optimize return on capital.
2026 onwards · New Product Frontiers
+36%
With its core franchise secured by a long-term license extension, Cboe is now focused on new growth avenues. This includes launching a new suite of 'Cboe Predicts' products, such as binary options and company KPI event contracts, and expanding its clearing capabilities through Cboe Clear U.S. to support innovation.
Market Appears To Be Aligned With Core Thesis
Price structure is strongly bullish. The regime, trend, and proximity to highs all point towards intact institutional trend. Relative to SPY: Decisively outperforming and improving. Potential evidence of active institutional rotation. Volume and momentum are strongly confirming. The institutional accumulation is evident and momentum is accelerating. Earnings history is supportive. The reaction and drift are both positive, and the market is accepting the narrative.
① Structure
+4
Structural pillar score (-4 to +4). Driven by trend regime, SMA cross events, proximity to 52W high, and relative strength vs SPY.
② Volume / Momentum
+4
Volume/Momentum pillar score (-4 to +4). Driven by institutional footprint score, OBV divergence, and momentum character.
③ Catalyst
+2
Catalyst pillar score (-4 to +4). Driven by earnings day reaction, 20D post-earnings drift, and post-earnings volume character.
Combined Score
10 / 12
1 Price Structure & Trend Trending Up · Golden Cross ▾
2 Momentum Accelerating ▾
3 Relative Strength vs. SPY Strong Outperformance ▾
4 Institutional Footprint & Volume Strong Accumulation ▾
5 Volatility Normal ▾
6 Key Price Levels Range · Vol Flat ▾
7 Earnings Reaction History Inconsistent ▾
8 How the Verdict Is Derived Three Pillars ▾
Core Cache Last Updated: 11/2/2026