CME 24/7 crypto derivatives market posts $50M in debut weekend

CME Group launched its 24/7 cryptocurrency derivatives market last Friday. Over Saturday and Sunday the platform executed more than 7,200 contracts, with an aggregate notional value near $50 million, the firm reported.

The around-the-clock schedule expands CME's existing crypto derivatives business, which began with its bitcoin futures contract in 2017. CME said average daily open interest across its cryptocurrency products exceeded $31 billion in 2025.

On Monday the exchange extended 24/7 trading to bitcoin volatility futures, which let investors take positions on the 30-day implied volatility of Bitcoin. The availability of these contracts outside regular weekday hours allows traders to manage exposure to price swings and trade volatility directly.

CME said the continuous trading option aligns its venue with ongoing activity on many spot and unregulated derivatives platforms while maintaining the firm’s clearing and risk controls.

“By offering continuous liquidity over the weekend, we are meeting client demand and bridging the gap between traditional regulated venues and the 24/7 nature of crypto assets,” Tim McCourt, Global Head of Equities, FX and Alternative Products, said.

The firm described the opening weekend volumes as an early sign of client engagement and said it will continue to add instruments under the 24/7 model.