CME Group announced on Thursday that it plans to introduce round-the-clock trading for its cryptocurrency futures and options markets. The move aims to align the exchange more closely with the nonstop nature of digital asset markets.
According to the company, the service could begin in early 2026, pending regulatory approval. If implemented, the change would expand access for institutions that already rely on CME for regulated derivatives trading.
24/7 Market Availability
Tim McCourt, CME’s global head of equities, FX, and alternative products, said demand for constant market access has grown. He noted that clients want to manage risk every day of the week with the assurance of a regulated platform.
Currently, CME’s crypto products pause on weekends and after business hours. Under the planned model, however, clients would gain continuous access to bitcoin (BTC) and ether (ETH) futures and options through CME Globex, except during a short weekly maintenance period.
Even with this change, trades executed on holidays and weekends would still settle on the next business day. This approach maintains consistency in clearing and reporting operations while opening the door to broader trading opportunities.
As a result, the adjustment could attract institutions that prefer regulated exchanges but need greater flexibility. It may also strengthen CME’s position against offshore venues that already operate 24/7 but without the same level of oversight.
CME Strengthens Its Role in Crypto Derivatives
CME is a central hub for U.S. institutions trading crypto derivatives and is the largest exchange for bitcoin and ether futures by open interest. According to CoinGlass, contract values stand at $16.8 billion for bitcoin futures and $9.8 billion for ether futures.
Building on this position, the exchange launched Solana and XRP futures earlier this year to trade alongside its existing bitcoin and Ethereum products. It also revealed plans to introduce options for SOL and XRP futures beginning October 13.
In addition to these offerings, CME already supports options tied to its bitcoin and ether futures. The potential expansion to 24/7 access may further influence market dynamics. Bitcoin prices often respond to gaps formed when CME markets close over weekends.
Meanwhile, other regulated derivatives exchanges are also broadening their products. Cboe, for instance, will launch continuous futures for BTC and ETH on November 10.
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