Cboe Expands Crypto Offerings with Cash-Settled Bitcoin Index Futures
Cboe Global Markets has taken a significant step in institutional cryptocurrency adoption by launching cash-settled Bitcoin index futures. This new product, called Cboe FTSE Bitcoin Index futures (XBTF), is based on the FTSE Bitcoin Reduced Value Index, which represents 1/10th the value of the benchmark FTSE Bitcoin Index. The futures contracts will settle monthly on the last business day, with all settlements occurring in cash rather than physical Bitcoin. This development comes as Bitcoin trades at 108,531.27 USDT, marking another milestone in the integration of digital assets into traditional financial markets. The institutional-grade product offers market participants exposure to Bitcoin’s price movements without the complexities of handling the underlying asset, potentially attracting more traditional investors to the crypto space. This move by Cboe follows growing demand for regulated crypto derivatives and could significantly impact Bitcoin’s liquidity and price discovery mechanisms in traditional markets.
Cboe Launches Cash-Settled Bitcoin Index Futures
Cboe Global Markets has expanded its digital asset derivatives suite with the introduction of cash-settled Bitcoin index futures. The new Cboe FTSE Bitcoin Index futures (XBTF) are based on the FTSE Bitcoin Reduced Value Index, representing 1/10th the value of the benchmark FTSE Bitcoin Index.
Settlement occurs monthly on the last business day, with contracts settled in cash rather than physical Bitcoin. This institutional-grade product reflects growing demand for regulated crypto exposure without direct asset custody challenges.
The launch signals continued maturation of Bitcoin derivatives markets, following Cboe’s pioneering Bitcoin futures in 2017. Market participants gain access to Bitcoin price exposure through established equity index infrastructure, bridging traditional finance and digital assets.
Samourai Wallet Legal Battle Delayed Amid DOJ Policy Shift
Samourai Wallet’s founders are gaining traction in their bid to dismiss charges after the Department of Justice adjusted its stance on digital asset litigation. A joint request for a 16-day extension on pretrial motions was filed April 28, allowing defense attorneys to reassess strategy following the policy pivot.
Keonne Rodriguez and William Lonergan Hill, the wallet’s creators, argue the delay prevents unnecessary legal expenditures while prosecutors reconsider their approach. The Southern District of New York will determine whether the privacy-focused bitcoin tool constitutes unlawful money transmission—a case that could set precedents for cryptocurrency regulation.
Bitcoin Whales’ $150B Profits Signal Potential Market Inflection Point
Bitcoin’s largest holders now sit on unrealized gains exceeding $150 billion, a 38% surge since April began. This profit threshold historically precedes whale sell-offs, with $200 billion acting as a critical tipping point for market momentum.
The MVRV ratio’s current overvaluation reading suggests growing correction risks. At $94,811, Bitcoin’s modest 0.16% daily gain appears fragile against this profit-taking backdrop.
South Korea Moves Toward Spot Bitcoin ETFs with New Crypto Regulations
South Korea’s People Power Party (PPP) has unveiled a comprehensive regulatory overhaul aimed at bolstering the nation’s VIRTUAL asset ecosystem. The proposed measures include authorizing spot Bitcoin ETFs by year-end, dismantling banking restrictions, and creating a global framework for stablecoins.
The announcement comes at a pivotal moment as the country approaches its June 3 presidential election. The PPP’s seven-point plan also calls for establishing a Virtual Asset Special Committee and implementing new laws to govern digital assets and security token offerings (STOs).
This regulatory push signals South Korea’s ambition to position itself as a leader in cryptocurrency adoption. The MOVE could potentially unlock significant institutional investment through Bitcoin ETFs while addressing long-standing concerns about market stability and investor protection.
Bitcoin Holds Firm Near $94K Amid Institutional Support and Technical Strength
Bitcoin maintains its position at $94,297 despite a minor 0.75% dip, with its $1.87 trillion market capitalization reinforcing its dominance in the crypto market. The cryptocurrency’s limited supply of 19.85 million BTC in circulation against a 21 million cap continues to underpin its value proposition.
Technical analysis reveals Bitcoin is testing crucial support levels, including the 50-day EMA at $94,239 and a rising trendline NEAR $93,760. These levels could serve as launchpads for potential upward movements toward $95,643 and $96,850 if buyer momentum sustains.
Market participants are eyeing a buy zone above $94,800, with stop-loss orders likely clustered below $93,700. A breach of the $93,760 support could trigger a retreat to $92,825, though current indicators suggest the broader trend remains intact.
Bitcoin Active Addresses Surge Past 800K Amid Price Consolidation
Bitcoin’s network activity shows signs of renewed demand as active addresses surge past 800,000, according to on-chain data from IntoTheBlock. The spike in activity comes as BTC consolidates near the $95,000 level, with bulls attempting to reclaim momentum after last week’s rally.
Market participants remain cautiously optimistic, though failure to hold the $90,000 support zone could trigger a sharper correction. Analysts emphasize this level as critical for maintaining bullish momentum in the short term.
The divergence between price action and network activity suggests underlying strength, with the address surge potentially foreshadowing accumulation. Traders await a decisive break above $96,000 resistance or a breakdown from current levels to determine the next directional move.
