CME Exchange Expands Crypto Offerings with XRP Futures Launch

The Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) has broadened its cryptocurrency derivatives lineup by introducing cash-settled XRP futures contracts, effective May 19. These contracts allow institutional traders to gain exposure to Ripple’s native token without direct ownership, aligning with CME’s existing Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana products.

Two contract sizes will be offered: a standard contract covering 50,000 XRP with $0.0005 minimum price increments, and a micro contract for smaller positions. Pricing is based on the CME CF XRP-Dollar Reference Rate, consistent with the exchange’s established crypto derivatives methodology.

This launch reflects increasing institutional adoption of XRP despite ongoing regulatory challenges. CME’s entry provides sophisticated traders with enhanced liquidity and risk management tools, potentially impacting XRP’s volatility and its correlation with other digital assets.