Core Viewpoint - The introduction of soybean meal and corn series options by the Dalian Commodity Exchange (DCE) on February 2, 2026, marks a significant innovation in China's agricultural derivatives market, enhancing risk management tools for industries [1][2]. Group 1: Series Options Launch - The DCE announced that soybean meal and corn series options will be listed for trading starting February 2, 2026, with the first contracts being M2607 and C2607 [2]. - Series options are new contracts added to existing conventional options, based on the same underlying futures contracts [2]. - The DCE has revised its trading management rules to accommodate series options, which will be listed five months before the delivery month and expire two months prior to the delivery month [2][3]. Group 2: Market Demand and Features - The series options are characterized by a shorter lifespan of approximately three and a half months, addressing the industry's need for short-term risk management [4]. - The introduction of series options is expected to lower the cost of hedging for enterprises, making it easier for them to engage in active buying and diversify their short-term hedging strategies [4]. - The series options fill the gap for monthly expiration contracts, allowing companies to manage risks related to raw material procurement and product sales more flexibly [4]. Group 3: Market Response and Future Plans - Since the launch of the first options tool in 2017, the DCE's options market has operated smoothly, with a solid regulatory framework supporting the introduction of series options [4]. - The DCE plans to ensure a stable market operation for the newly listed series options and will focus on market cultivation and investor education to enhance understanding of options tools [5].