CME to make crypto futures ‘always on’ with 24/7 trading in 2026

This blog explains CME Group’s plan to make its cryptocurrency futures and options markets operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week starting in 2026. It covers the reasons behind the move, how it will work, and its potential impact on traders and markets. What’s Changing at CME CME Group announced that beginning early in 2026, its crypto futures and options will shift to continuous trading on its electronic system (Globex). This means clients can trade anytime, day or night, all week long. There will still be a short maintenance window each week over the weekend. Because of regulatory rules, trades done over weekends or holidays will be recorded under the next business day, and clearing, settlement, and reporting will also follow the next business day. Why CME Is Doing This The key drivers include: • Demand from clients who want to manage risk around-the-clock • Increased institutional interest in crypto derivatives • Record volumes in crypto futures and options this year, showing that markets are ready for more access • Alignment with how crypto markets already operate (crypto doesn’t sleep) Tim McCourt from CME noted that though not all markets should run 24/7, crypto has matured to the point where continuous trading makes sense. How It Will Work & Operational Rules Here’s how the change is designed: • Trading will run continuously via CME Globex, with at least a two-hour maintenance window each week • Trades made during weekends or holidays will be assigned the trade date of the next business day • Clearing, settlement, and regulatory reporting will also take place on that next business day In short, the system wants to make sure everything is seamless and compliant, even with round-the-clock operation. Market Context & Momentum CME is making this move at a time of strong momentum: • Crypto futures and options volume has hit record highs in 2025 • Open interest (the total number of outstanding derivative contracts) also smashed records, indicating deep participation • Many large holders have entered the space, showing institutional confidence It’s not just about access — it’s also a bet that regulated, high-volume crypto markets are here to stay. Potential Benefits & Challenges This shift brings opportunities — and issues to watch out for: Benefits: • Greater flexibility — traders can react to events any time, not just during market hours • Smoother risk management — hedge or adjust positions even outside business hours • Stronger global access — aligning with international markets that already trade 24/7 Challenges: • Maintaining infrastructure and liquidity during off-peak hours • Handling liquidity gaps or volatility when fewer participants are active • Ensuring regulatory compliance, clearing, settlement integrity when markets operate nonstop Final Thoughts CME’s plan to make crypto futures and options always on is a big step toward matching traditional finance to how crypto already functions — nonstop. It recognizes that demand is there, that institutions want access at all times, and that crypto markets deserve the same robustness as other asset classes. If executed well, it could make trading smoother, more responsive, and more accessible globally. But success depends on managing technical, liquidity, and regulatory challenges.