CME to make crypto futures ‘always on' with 24/7 trading in 2026

CME Group announced plans to launch 24/7 cryptocurrency futures trading by 2026, marking a revolutionary shift in digital asset markets. The Chicago-based derivatives exchange will make crypto futures "always on," enabling round-the-clock Bitcoin and cryptocurrency trading for institutional investors.

This groundbreaking move addresses the cryptocurrency market's inherently global, non-stop nature, where Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital assets trade continuously across decentralized exchanges worldwide. CME's decision reflects growing institutional demand for seamless crypto exposure and sophisticated trading infrastructure.

Exchange leaders suggest nonstop trading could eventually expand beyond cryptocurrency futures to traditional assets, but crypto represents the logical starting point due to its 24/7 market dynamics. This development could significantly impact Bitcoin price discovery, reduce trading gaps, and enhance market liquidity for institutional participants.

The initiative positions CME to compete more effectively with cryptocurrency exchanges that already offer continuous trading. As blockchain technology and DeFi protocols operate without traditional market hours, CME's always-on crypto futures trading aligns with the digital asset ecosystem's fundamental characteristics, potentially attracting more institutional capital to regulated cryptocurrency derivatives markets.