CME Group is set to expand its cryptocurrency derivatives portfolio with the introduction of futures contracts for Avalanche (AVAX) and Sui (SUI), with trading expected to begin on May 4. The contracts, which remain subject to regulatory review, will be available in both micro-sized and larger-sized formats on the firm’s derivatives exchange. The launch comes just weeks before CME transitions to 24/7 trading of options and futures on May 29.
Giovanni Vicioso, CME’s Global Head of Crypto Products, said the new contracts are designed to give clients greater choice, enhanced flexibility, and improved capital efficiency across the firm’s regulated crypto derivatives platform. He also noted that March average daily volume rose 19% year-over-year, with nearly $8 billion in average notional value traded each day. The figures reflect continued strong demand from market participants seeking to manage risk and pursue opportunities in digital assets.
The planned AVAX and SUI contracts follow CME’s earlier addition of futures for Cardano (ADA), Stellar (XLM), and Chainlink (LINK) to its derivatives lineup this year. The Chicago-based exchange already offers futures and options on Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, and Solana. The latest additions reflect the firm’s ongoing effort to broaden its coverage of high-growth crypto assets.
Isaac Cahana, CEO of licensed futures trading provider Plus500US, welcomed the expansion, stating that sustained and increasing interest in digital assets makes the rollout of additional tailored derivatives a positive development. He added that the new contracts would broaden access for global customers and allow them to participate in evolving markets with greater flexibility and improved capital efficiency. His comments highlight the growing appetite among institutional and retail participants for regulated crypto exposure.
CME’s crypto trading volumes reached record highs last year, with more than $13 billion in notional value traded daily. The firm has also disclosed it is exploring various initiatives involving its own coin for use on decentralized networks. Additionally, CME is collaborating with Google on a tokenized cash initiative, with new products from that partnership anticipated later this year.
Originally reported by Decrypt.
