Options Linkage Plan

The registered U.S. options markets are linked together on a real-time basis through a network capable of transporting orders and messages to and from each market. The linkage is expected to increase market efficiency, enhance competition, facilitate the offsetting of investor’s orders, and contribute to the best execution of such orders. Linkage is governed by the Options Linkage Authority (OLA) under the conditions set forth by "the Plan" approved by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

At this time, OLA consists of:

• The American Stock Exchange (AMEX)
• Boston Options Exchange, Inc. (BOX)
• The Chicago Board Options Exchange (CBOE)
• The International Securities Exchange (ISE)
• NASDAQ Options Market (NSDQ)
• NYSE Arca
• The Philadelphia Stock Exchange (PHLX)

The Intermarket Options Linkage Program plan and amendments are below. Please direct any questions to the U.S. Options Exchanges.

Options Linkage Plan - (PDF) March 21, 2008