CME Exchange Shatters Records with $3T Crypto Derivatives Volume in 2025, Expands 24/7 Trading

The CME Group reported a massive surge in crypto derivatives activity during Q4 2025, fueled by strong institutional interest in ETH futures and newly launched SOL and XRP markets. The exchange achieved record volumes, open interest, and participant engagement, leading to its decision to roll out 24/7 trading for crypto products—aligning with the non-stop nature of native digital asset markets.

Nine years after introducing BTC futures, CME has solidified its role as a benchmark for Bitcoin's price direction. The maturation of both institutional and crypto-native markets culminated in 2025 with a staggering $3 trillion in notional futures and options trading. Average daily volumes more than doubled year-over-year to 280,000 contracts, while open interest reached 313,000 contracts (representing $26 billion).

The exchange announced plans to expand its offerings with ADA, LINK, and XLM contracts by February 2026, pending regulatory approval from bodies like the FSA. A Nasdaq CME Crypto Index is also in development, slated for launch by year-end.

Q4’s momentum was undeniable: open interest doubled compared to Q4 2024, and large open interest holders hit an all-time high (ATH) of 1,039. 'The numbers speak to institutional confidence,' a CME spokesperson noted, 'even amid broader market volatility.'