The Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) Group has unveiled plans to begin 24/7 trading for its cryptocurrency futures and options in early 2026.

If this initiative gains regulatory approval, it could mark the first major U.S.-regulated exchange to provide continuous access to crypto derivatives, aligning with decentralized finance (DeFi) norms.

Rising Client Demand

The derivatives market announced in a Thursday statement, pending regulatory approval, its intent to allow users to trade crypto futures and options “24 hours a day, seven days a week” starting in early 2026. This decision responds to increasing demand from users for continuous risk management and liquidity.

“While not all markets can support 24/7 operations, we see a growing need among clients to manage their risk throughout the week,” said Tim McCourt, the Global Head of Equities, FX, and Alternative Products at CME Group.

The expanded trading hours will be available for a range of CME’s crypto products, including Bitcoin and Ethereum futures and options. Transactions will be facilitated through the CME Globex electronic platform, with a two-hour maintenance window during weekends. Any weekend or holiday trades will be processed on the next business day, maintaining the clearing, settlement, and regulatory reporting standards.

Nate Geraci, President of NovaDius Wealth Management, stated that this development signifies the rapid convergence of traditional finance with DeFi practices, asserting that this is “just the beginning”.

During a recent joint roundtable with the SEC and CFTC, CEO Terrence Duffy indicated that he anticipates a growing interest in 24/7 trading, asserting that cryptocurrency provides a clear path toward this goal.

Crypto Derivatives Hit Record Highs

CME’s initiative could attract institutional clients seeking the benefits of a regulated exchange without the limitations of standard trading hours. If this plan is approved, it could position CME ahead of international competitors who currently provide nonstop trading but do so under less stringent regulatory environments.

In 2025, CME’s crypto derivatives reached new heights, with notional open interest exceeding $39 billion in September. The average daily open interest surged by 95% from previous years, totaling 335,200 contracts, while daily volume rose 230% to 411,000 contracts. The exchange also recorded over 1,010 large open interest holders across its crypto offerings.

Other Insights

Additional executives echoed similar sentiments, with Intercontinental Exchange CEO Jeff Sprecher asserting that markets should dictate which assets are suitable for constant trading. Nasdaq CEO Adena Friedman mentioned that her firm is moving toward a 24/5 equity trading model, although practical hurdles remain.