CME Group will roll out continuous trading for its cryptocurrency futures and options contracts on May 29, offering institutional investors the ability to trade regulated derivatives tied to Bitcoin and Ether at any hour of the day or week.
The plan, which was made official in an announcement on Thursday, finalizes the exchange’s previously disclosed ambition to introduce a 24/7 schedule for its crypto products in 2026, contingent on regulatory approval.
This operational shift directly addresses a structural mismatch in the market: digital assets trade constantly on spot venues, while traditional regulated derivatives have operated within fixed hours, leaving hedgers potentially exposed.
Since its initial foray with Bitcoin futures in 2017, CME has established itself as the dominant regulated venue for institutions seeking crypto exposure, later adding Ether futures and options to its lineup.
The exchange continues to build out its digital asset ecosystem, having recently introduced futures contracts for Cardano, Chainlink, and Stellar to meet broadening institutional appetite.
