- CME crypto futures and options go 24/7 on May 29, narrowing weekend gaps.
- Institutional demand drives record $3T in crypto derivatives volume in 2025.
- Daily futures volume rises 47%, open interest up 7% YoY, showing growth.
Chicago-based CME Group will open its cryptocurrency futures and options markets for round-the-clock trading on May 29, marking a structural shift for regulated digital asset derivatives in the United States.
The move, which awaits regulatory review, will allow institutional investors to manage exposure at any hour. Consequently, the long-standing weekend gap between traditional market hours and crypto activity will narrow significantly.
Around-the-Clock Access Begins May 29
According to the press release, beginning at 4:00 p.m. CT on Friday, May 29, crypto futures and options will trade continuously on CME Globex. The platform will pause briefly for a two-hour maintenance window over the weekend. However, trading will otherwise continue without interruption across time zones.
All trades executed from Friday evening through Sunday evening will carry the next business day’s trade date. Additionally, clearing, settlement, and regulatory reporting will occur on the following business day. Hence, the structure preserves existing compliance processes while expanding trading access.
The exchange already lists futures and options tied to major digital assets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, and Solana. Moreover, it recently introduced contracts linked to ADA, LINK, and XLM. With 24/7 trading, institutions will soon manage these positions without waiting for traditional market reopenings.
Related: CME Coin Emerges as CME Group Explores Tokenized Collateral Strategy
Institutional Demand Drives Expansion
CME executives point to rising institutional participation as the catalyst behind the decision. Tim McCourt, Global Head of Equities, FX and Alternative Products at CME Group, said, “Client demand for risk management in the digital asset market is at an all-time high, driving a record $3 trillion in notional volume across our Cryptocurrency futures and options in 2025.”
He added, “While not all markets lend themselves to operating 24/7, providing always-on access to our regulated, transparent Cryptocurrency products ensures clients can manage their exposure and trade with confidence at any time.” His remarks underscore how institutional strategies now require constant market access.
Year-to-date metrics reflect that trend. Average daily volume has climbed to 407,200 contracts, up 46% from last year. Futures activity alone averages 403,900 contracts daily, a 47% annual increase. Open interest has also risen to 335,400 contracts, up 7% year over year.
Related: XRP Open Interest and CME ETF Announcement Triggers Altcoins Recovery
Disclaimer: The information presented in this article is for informational and educational purposes only. The article does not constitute financial advice or advice of any kind. Coin Edition is not responsible for any losses incurred as a result of the utilization of content, products, or services mentioned. Readers are advised to exercise caution before taking any action related to the company.
