CME Exchange Debuts XRP Futures with Tepid Initial Trading Activity

XRP futures launched on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange’s derivatives platform, introducing the first regulated U.S. futures contracts tied to the cryptocurrency. The contracts are available in two sizes—2,500 XRP and 50,000 XRP—and are cash-settled using the CME CF XRP-Dollar Reference Rate.

This expansion adds XRP to CME’s existing crypto derivatives lineup, which includes bitcoin, ether, and solana futures. Solana’s March launch saw modest activity with just $12.3 million in daily volume. XRP’s price declined 3.45% during the announcement period.

The introduction of regulated futures may indicate growing institutional acceptance, though early trading patterns suggest cautious market participation. CME’s move broadens its crypto derivatives offerings as digital assets continue gaining traction in traditional finance.