Open Interest

Definition ∞ Open interest quantifies the total number of outstanding derivative contracts, such as futures or options, that have not yet been settled. It represents the total volume of active positions in a particular market. An increase in open interest typically signifies growing participation and liquidity, while a decrease suggests positions are being closed out.
Context ∞ Open interest is a key metric analyzed by traders and analysts to gauge market sentiment and potential price movements in cryptocurrency derivatives. Reports often highlight significant shifts in open interest for major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum, correlating these changes with price action. Discussions frequently involve the implications of rising open interest for potential volatility or the unwinding of leveraged positions.