CME Group to offer around-the-clock trading for cryptocurrency futures and options

CME Group to offer around-the-clock trading for cryptocurrency futures and options

CME Group, the world's leading derivatives marketplace, has announced plans to introduce 24/7 trading for cryptocurrency futures and options starting in early 2026, subject to regulatory approval. This strategic move comes amidst record-breaking performance in CME's cryptocurrency products, underscoring the growing institutional demand for continuous market access.

The continuous trading will be conducted on CME Globex with a scheduled two-hour weekly maintenance window. This announcement marks a significant evolution in the market, responding to the borderless, always-on nature of digital asset markets. The move aims to bridge a critical gap between traditional finance operating hours and the 24/7 cryptocurrency spot markets, potentially reducing weekend price dislocations and arbitrage opportunities that have plagued institutional participants.

The timing aligns with remarkable growth in CME's cryptocurrency products. As of September 18, CME reported $39 billion in notional open interest, a 95% year-over-year increase in average daily open interest, and a 230% surge in average daily volume to 411,000 contracts, representing approximately $14.9 billion in daily notional value. This growth signals robust institutional adoption, with over 1,010 large open interest holders across cryptocurrency products .

The planned implementation includes prudent risk management with a maintenance window and special handling for weekend trades, maintaining regulatory compliance while extending hours. This balanced approach should appeal to risk-conscious institutional traders who value CME's central clearing counterparty services and regulatory framework, while still meeting their need for continuous risk management capabilities in volatile crypto markets.

The introduction of 24/7 trading for cryptocurrency futures and options is a significant step forward in the integration of digital assets within traditional financial markets. It reflects the increasing sophistication and institutionalization of cryptocurrency markets, driven by the growing demand for regulated products and continuous trading opportunities.