CME to Take Crypto Futures 24/7
Categorised: Crypto, The Stream | Tags: 24/7, CME, crypto, futures, optionsPosted by Colin Lambert. Last updated: February 23, 2026
The subject of 24/7 trading has become a noisier debate in recent months, especially as links between crypto and TradFi markets have seemingly deepened, but generally the OTC world has been reluctant to embrace the concept. While not OTC, CME Group, which interacts with most OTC players, has announced that its Cryptocurrency futures and options will be available for trading 24 hours a day, seven days a week beginning on May 29.
The announcement, which is pending regulatory review, was seen as inevitable in some quarters given what was perceived to the exchange’s disadvantage of not offering its crypto products on a 24/7 basis (volumes are still higher year-on-year, however), and while it will not immediately lead to a broader 24/7 culture, there is no doubt, as is the case with LMAX Exchange’s offering, it is opening a door for TradFi participants, through which they can, perhaps test the waters.
Rationalising the move, Tim McCourt, global head of equities, FX and alternative products at CME, says, “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. 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.”
Beginning Friday, May 29 at 4:00 p.m. CT, CME’s crypto futures and options will trade continuously on CME Globex with at least a two-hour weekly maintenance period over the weekend. All holiday or weekend trading from Friday evening through Sunday evening will have a trade date of the following business day, with clearing, settlement and regulatory reporting processed the following business day as well.
