Liquidnet, a leading technology-driven agency execution specialist, announced the launch of its US Equity Options business, a strategic expansion that supports its multi-asset ambitions.

To lead this initiative, Liquidnet has appointed Andrew Arnold as Senior Execution Trader, High Touch US Equity Options, and Jason Lichten as Senior Execution Trader, Low Touch US Equity Options.

Arnold joins with more than 20 years of experience in equity derivatives, having held senior sales trading roles at Credit Suisse, Cantor Fitzgerald, Baycrest, Tullett Prebon and GFI. He will oversee the buildout of Liquidnet’s high-touch US Equity Options offering.

Lichten brings over 25 years of industry experience from Wolverine Execution Services, RBC Capital Markets, BT Radianz and Merrill Lynch, and will focus on developing Liquidnet’s low-touch electronic options capabilities.

Chris Blackburn, Global Head of Multi-Asset at Liquidnet, said: “Expanding into US Equity Options is a logical next step in our multi-asset strategy. The market has seen sustained growth over the past several years and we see clear opportunities to deliver value to our Members by extending our execution expertise into this space. With Andrew and Jason’s depth of experience, we’re well-positioned to build a differentiated offering that complements our existing capabilities across equities, fixed income and listed derivatives.”

Andrew Arnold, Senior Execution Trader, High Touch US Equity Options at Liquidnet, added: “This is a rare opportunity to build something new within an established global network. The US options market is evolving quickly, with growing demand for high-quality, agency-driven execution. Building this business within Liquidnet gives us the opportunity to bring the same trusted model and Member-first approach that have long defined our success in equities.”

Jason Lichten, Senior Execution Trader, Low Touch US Equity Options at Liquidnet, commented: “The continued electronification of the US options market presents real opportunities for innovation. Liquidnet’s technology-driven approach and global network provide a strong foundation for developing advanced low-touch solutions tailored to institutional needs.”

Source: Liquidnet