Market maker Optiver reported a strong performance in its financial results of 2020. The global trading firm realised a net profit attributable to equity holders of € 1.4 billion in 2020, compared to € 397 million in 2019. The 2020 result from operating activities was € 1.8 billion versus € 525 million in 2019. Net trading income in 2020 amounted to € 3.2 billion, 180% more than in 2019 (€ 1.1 billion).

Optiver exhibited a strong financial position at the end of 2020, with total equity of € 2.5 billion compared to € 1.5 billion at end-2019. It maintains a conservative capital structure, to meet business and regulatory requirements. Total assets were € 25.1 billion as at 31 December 2020, an increase of 11% compared to 2019’s € 22.5 billion.

2020 will be remembered for the impact of the global coronavirus pandemic. The initial news of the pandemic, as well as the first vaccine, had a dramatic effect on market volatility. During this unprecedented time, Optiver stood firm in its mission to improve the market by providing liquidity, whatever the market conditions. Several key stakeholders such as exchanges, regulators and leading buy-side counterparties expressed their appreciation of our important contribution in keeping markets stable and functioning in an orderly manner during these periods of extreme turbulence.

Additionally, global markets were impacted by the protracted US elections, trade tensions, Brexit and accommodating monetary policy across the globe.

“Throughout this tumultuous period, we prioritised the safety of our people and together we were able to deliver on our commitment to provide liquidity to markets around the world, when it was needed the most.” said Optiver CEO Jan Boomaars.

In 2021 Optiver celebrates 35 years since its founding. To mark this milestone, it launched the Optiver Foundation – a not-for-profit organisation that will address some of the most pressing issues facing our planet and its people: the environment, which is under unprecedented pressure due to climate change, and diversity. “We believe that every company has a responsibility to help create equal opportunities for every person, regardless of their gender, ethnicity or background. Access to education is of particular importance here. Many of our people come from the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics and as such we’re extremely passionate about these subjects. We want to help gifted young people who do not have the means to enter these fields of study, the opportunity to follow their dreams.” added Boomaars.