CME Group Plans 24/7 Crypto Futures Trading

CME Group has not suspended its commodity futures trading, including cryptocurrencies, but is expanding to 24/7 trading in early 2026, pending regulatory approval.

This expansion aligns with market participants’ needs for continuous risk management amid growing institutional interest, enhancing liquidity and aligning futures with spot markets.

CME Moves to 24/7 Trading as Crypto Demand Surges

CME Group, the world’s leading derivatives marketplace, revealed plans for 24/7 cryptocurrency futures trading starting early 2026. Headed by Tim McCourt, the initiatives aim to meet growing demands for continuous trading. This move could greatly enhance flexibility in managing crypto risks every day.

Crypto futures and options trading volumes have reached unprecedented highs in 2025 due to the record volume of 795k contracts amid volatility, significantly for Bitcoin and Ethereum. However, CME has suspended upcoming regulated options on assets like Solana and XRP, signaling a strategic shift. The expansion includes launching new futures products despite these suspensions.

“Client demand for around-the-clock cryptocurrency trading has grown as market participants need to manage their risk every day of the week,” said Tim McCourt, Global Head of Equities, FX, and Alternative Products at CME Group.

Market participants on Twitter welcomed CME’s around-the-clock trading proposal, viewing it as aligning regulated products with the continuous nature of crypto markets. Institutional players, including large funds, express optimism for having continuous risk management solutions at their disposal.

Bitcoin Price at $91K as Institutional Interest Grows

Did you know? CME Group first launched Bitcoin futures in December 2017, marking a pivotal moment in regulated crypto derivatives, similar to the proposed 24/7 trading, potentially transforming market access yet again.

Bitcoin (BTC) currently trades at $91,146.42 with a market cap of 1.82 trillion. It commands a market dominance of 58.66%. Recent price movements show a 4.44% increase over 24 hours and 6.11% over a week, though declining over 30 days. (Data: CoinMarketCap)

According to Coincu research team, continuous trading could redefine institutional involvement in cryptocurrencies. Historical data suggests regulatory clarity boosts volumes, with new structures potentially enhancing on-chain stability. Regulatory transparency remains key to sustaining this momentum.