US Regulator Approves 24/7 Crypto Derivatives Trading

CFTC approves 24/7 crypto derivatives trading, warns of risks to other derivatives.

CFTC has given the green light to 24/7 trading in the crypto derivatives market, while also warning of risks to other segments of derivative financial instruments.

.@CFTC Staff Issues Advisory on 24/7 Trading, Clearing, and Settlement: https://t.co/Nt3v5zJzdj

— CFTC (@CFTC) May 29, 2026

On May 29, the commission issued a letter to market participants. The agency noted that the shift to 24/7 trading and clearing “may not currently be suitable for all asset classes” due to differences in underlying markets.

The CFTC acknowledged that blockchain infrastructure, alternative forms of collateral — including crypto assets and stablecoins — and mobile access have made the 24/7 model viable for digital assets. Platforms already offer continuous access to both retail and institutional clients.

Traditional markets, including agricultural derivatives, are less prepared for such a regime. The reasons include the specifics of the client base, regional structure, and hedging features.

The main risk is abuse during periods of reduced oversight. The transition of individual products to a round-the-clock mode could impact liquidity, increase volatility, and widen spreads, creating more opportunities for manipulation.

The regulator has demanded that platforms enhance compliance and notify the commission in advance of plans to launch a 24/7 model.

The letter was released on the same day the CFTC approved crypto companies to launch perpetual futures on a 24/7 basis.

Coinbase stated that it is already restructuring traditional financial services on crypto infrastructure. According to the company, its platform operates stocks, futures, and prediction markets 24/7, and the regulator’s decision will allow it to add global options and perpetual contracts through a regulated division. 

We’re bringing global crypto derivatives to the U.S.

Coinbase is the first regulated company to bring global crypto options & perpetual futures to the States, thanks to @CFTC.

→ Tap the deepest crypto options & perps liquidity
→ Access >$31B BTC options OI via Deribit
→… pic.twitter.com/CD1GsbX7Lj

— Coinbase 🛡️ (@coinbase) May 29, 2026

Earlier in May, exchange operator Intercontinental Exchange requested the regulator to provide a “level playing field” in the on-chain perpetual futures market.