CME Group Set to Introduce Around-the-Clock Crypto Derivatives Trading by 2026
CME Group announces plans for 24/7 trading in cryptocurrency derivatives starting in early 2026, pending regulatory approval amid a government shutdown.
The Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) Group announced plans to offer continuous trading for cryptocurrency starting in 2026. This expansion, which is pending regulatory approval, will allow clients to trade cryptocurrency futures and options at any time, enhancing current trading that is limited to specific hours.
During a recent announcement, the CME Group emphasized that client demand for constant trading has increased, requiring a service that operates every day of the week. Tim McCourt, CME Group’s global head of equities, FX, and alternative products, stated:
“While not all markets lend themselves to operating 24/7, client demand for around-the-clock cryptocurrency trading has grown as market participants need to manage their risk every day of the week.”
This initiative is currently under regulatory review by the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), which is facing operational limitations due to a government shutdown. However, the chance of the shutdown extending into 2026 is considered low, despite there being no agreements at the publication time. Moreover, CME Group’s CEO, Terrence Duffy, commented on the increasing market demand for such trading hours.
For reference, the global crypto derivatives open interest stood at approximately $3.2 billion, while CME Group’s open interest was noted at around $39 billion as of mid-September.
