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- Round the clock trading will reshape crypto risk control.
- Regulated access will match the nonstop digital asset market.
- Record volumes show strong institutional demand.
CME Group announced a major shift in its digital asset strategy. The derivatives giant will offer continuous trading for its regulated cryptocurrency futures and options. The change will begin on May 29, subject to regulatory review.
The move will bring crypto contracts to the same nonstop level as the underlying markets. Also, trading will be on throughout the day and night, throughout the week. The firm seeks to provide institutions with stronger options during periods of volatility. Crypto markets are prone to volatility outside of standard trading hours.
CME Group seeks to address the current reality. The company is a global leader in derivatives trading. It serves banks, funds, and commercial entities. Crypto markets have become a significant part of its operations. Demand for crypto markets has increased during periods of stress.
Clients need rules that are transparent. Also, they need transparent pricing. CME Group thinks nonstop trading is the next step. The firm thinks that a regulated environment can help reduce risks. Nonstop trading can also limit volatility when markets open.
Institutional Demand Drives Crypto Derivatives Growth
Trading data indicates that there is strong momentum. Cryptocurrency futures and options recorded a record volume during 2025 and the start of 2026. The company reported a turnover of three trillion dollars during 2025. There was a sharp rise in the average daily volume this year. Futures led the way.
There was also an increase in open interest. This indicates long-term positioning. These figures show the sustained use of the products. Tim McCourt manages the products. He said that the need for risk management in digital assets continues to grow.
Clients need products they can rely on during periods of rapid price movements. CME Group, a regulated and transparent exchange, attracts major investors, enables constant hedging, and aligns futures with global crypto trading.
CME Adds Crypto to Nonstop Market Access
The new schedule will be available on CME Globex. The markets will open on Friday afternoons in Chicago. The markets will then run non-stop. There will be a short maintenance window every weekend. The firm will send all the trades executed during the weekend to the next business day.
Clearing and settlement will take place on the same day. The same applies to regulatory reporting. The firm is confident that the transition to the new market schedule will be seamless. The platform is already able to process high volumes of flow. The platform has already been used to execute trades in various asset classes.
Crypto has joined interest rates, equities, and energy in scale and significance. CME Group believes 24/7 market access will boost liquidity and attract more global investors by removing time zone barriers.
This move reflects a broader trend: crypto markets never sleep, and regulated derivatives are catching up. CME Group’s action shows confidence in crypto, with institutional readiness and supporting figures confirming it.
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