CFTC Launches Initiative for Listed Spot Crypto Trading

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) is advancing a new initiative to facilitate spot trading of crypto assets on regulated futures exchanges. Acting Chairman Caroline D. Pham announced the move as part of the agency's broader 'crypto sprint,' aligning with recommendations from the President’s Working Group on Digital Asset Markets.

The initiative leverages existing authority under the Commodity Exchange Act, which mandates that Leveraged retail commodity trading occur on designated contract markets (DCMs). Pham emphasized the CFTC's collaboration with the SEC's Project Crypto, framing the effort as a step toward establishing U.S. dominance in digital asset markets.

Stakeholders are invited to submit feedback on listing mechanisms, with a focus on Section 2(c)(2)(D) of the Commodity Exchange Act. The announcement signals growing institutional recognition of crypto's role in mainstream finance.