CME Group May Offer 24/7 Trading for Bitcoin and Ethereum Futures and Options, Pending Regulatory Review

• CME to open crypto products 24/7 in early 2026 (pending review)

• Solana and XRP options launch expected on Oct. 13; weekly two‑hour maintenance remains.

• Record activity: notional open interest hit $39 billion; August outstanding contracts 335,200 (up 95% YoY).

Meta description: CME 24/7 crypto trading is coming in early 2026 — learn what changes for Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana and XRP options and what it means for traders.

What is CME 24/7 crypto trading?

CME 24/7 crypto trading is the shift by CME Group to offer continuous, round‑the‑clock trading for its cryptocurrency futures and options. The move, planned for early 2026 pending regulatory review, will extend trading hours for Bitcoin and Ethereum products and is designed to help clients manage risk daily.

How will CME Group implement round‑the‑clock trading?

CME Group plans to expand its current crypto sessions to run 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with a scheduled two‑hour weekly maintenance window and holiday considerations. The firm said the change will apply to “all the crypto products that we have listed,” and expects to keep surveillance and risk controls active throughout the new hours.

Why is CME Group moving to 24/7 trading?

Client demand for continuous trading has increased as institutional and retail participants seek to manage risk outside traditional hours. CME leadership cited growing usage and record volumes this year as drivers. Continuous hours reduce the weekend gaps visible on price charts for Bitcoin futures and align CME closer to the always‑open crypto spot markets.

When will Solana and XRP options be available?

Solana and XRP options are expected to become available on Oct. 13. These launches come as part of CME’s phased product expansion that already covers Bitcoin and Ethereum futures and options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will 24/7 trading change margin or settlement rules?

CME has indicated risk controls and margin frameworks will remain in force, with potential operational adjustments to accommodate continuous sessions. Traders should expect the same settlement structures but should monitor official CME notices for technical details.

How does this affect Bitcoin futures that CME launched in 2017?

CME first offered Bitcoin futures in 2017. The 24/7 initiative will extend availability of those legacy futures, helping reduce weekend price gaps and allowing continuous hedging for positions established since the product launch.

Key Takeaways

• 24/7 transition: CME Group plans continuous trading for crypto derivatives in early 2026 to meet client demand.
• Product expansion: Solana and XRP options expected Oct. 13; Bitcoin and Ethereum already listed.
• Market impact: Record open interest ($39B) and 95% YoY growth in outstanding contracts signal deeper institutional adoption.

How should traders prepare for 24/7 CME crypto trading?

1. Review margin and risk models to ensure capital adequacy for continuous markets.

2. Update monitoring and surveillance tools to cover off‑hour exposure.

3. Confirm operational readiness for settlement and support during the weekly maintenance window.

Context and authoritative signals

The move follows years of growth in CME’s crypto derivatives franchise. Industry commentary cited by market participants highlights the elimination of weekend chart gaps and improved risk management. Official statements from CME Group executives and internal market surveillance are central to the rollout strategy.

Conclusion

The CME 24/7 crypto trading initiative marks a significant step in integrating crypto derivatives into continuous global markets. With Solana and XRP options coming in October and broader 24/7 coverage targeted for early 2026, traders should prepare operationally and review risk frameworks. COINOTAG will monitor official CME notices and market data for updates.

Author: COINOTAG · Published: 2025-10-02 · Updated: 2025-10-02