Market News

CME Group Set to Revolutionize Crypto Trading with Nearly 24/7 Derivatives Access

CME Group, recognized as the largest derivatives marketplace globally, has officially announced plans to introduce almost round-the-clock trading for its cryptocurrency derivatives starting May 29, pending regulatory approval.

This new schedule will enable continuous trading on the CME Globex platform, broadening access beyond the traditional weekly framework.

However, traders should note that there will still be a mandatory two-hour maintenance break each weekend.

In response to the growing demand for cryptocurrency risk management tools, particularly amid significant price fluctuations, the new trading structure will allow trades made between Friday evening and Sunday evening to be recorded with a trade date of the next business day.

Tim McCourt, CME Group’s Global Head of Equities, FX, and Alternative Products, emphasized that client demand for digital asset exposure has reached an unprecedented level.

The exchange reported a record $3 trillion in notional trading volume in 2025 across its cryptocurrency futures and options suite.

With a notable 46% increase in average daily volume of contracts so far in 2026, CME Group's crypto segment continues to witness significant growth.

The continuous access to regulated crypto derivatives aims to enhance flexibility for traders, allowing them to manage exposure more effectively as market conditions evolve.

While CME Group has set its sights on May 29 for launching this initiative, it remains subject to regulatory review and final approval.

If granted, this development will align crypto derivatives trading with the continuous nature of the underlying digital asset markets, marking a transformative step in the industry.