TL;DR

  • CME will introduce 24/7 trading for crypto futures and options on May 29.
  • CFTC Chair Mike Selig described nonstop crypto markets as a “no-brainer.”
  • Nasdaq and NYSE are developing comparable 24/7 stock trading systems.
  • CME crypto derivatives reached $3 trillion in notional volume in 2025, a record year.

CME Group will transition to 24/7 trading for its cryptocurrency futures and options in late May. This adjustment represents a key advancement toward uninterrupted access for institutional users, occurring as broader financial markets explore similar operational timetables. The shift remains subject to regulatory approval, though the Commodity Futures Trading Commission has signaled backing for a nonstop structure.

Under the initiative, CME will begin round-the-clock trading for all crypto futures and options starting the afternoon of May 29. The schedule will include a single brief weekly maintenance window. Currently, CME crypto products close from Friday afternoon to Sunday evening. This change will eliminate that weekend closure, aligning CME more closely with the 24/7 activity observed across the digital asset market.

Tim McCourt, CME’s global head of equities, FX, and alternative products, noted the change reflects rising client demand. He stated that continuous access will allow users to manage risk at any time while staying within a regulated framework. McCourt highlighted that crypto markets often experience significant movements over weekends, and the new structure will enable institutional users to respond promptly.

Regulatory Support for Continuous Trading

CME indicated the schedule will be implemented following a review by federal regulators. At an event, CFTC Chair Mike Selig remarked that nonstop trading is well-suited for digital assets. He noted that some traditional products, such as agricultural commodities, might not fit a 24/7 model, but crypto markets already operate with constant activity.

Selig emphasized that nonstop access is a practical and direct fit for asset classes driven by global demand. He called the concept a clear choice for crypto markets and stated the CFTC is ready to support responsible structures. His remarks were made at an event attended by top financial executives and senior policymakers.

The CFTC chair has also advocated for the agency’s authority over digital assets. In a recent editorial, he stated the agency will continue enforcing rules for prediction markets and digital commodity platforms. His comments followed state-level actions that challenged federal oversight.

Institutional Demand Behind CME’s Expansion

Crypto futures and options continue to hit volume records at CME. The firm reported $3 trillion in notional volume across these markets in 2025. CME noted that average daily volume in 2026 has increased by 46% compared to the previous year. The move to 24/7 trading aims to match this growth with expanded access.

CME stated that weekend trading from Friday to Sunday will be processed with a next-business-day timestamp. Clearing, settlement, and reporting will remain aligned with business days. The company noted this structure maintains operational controls while still allowing users to adjust positions at any time.

Institutional traders frequently encounter rapid price fluctuations in digital assets over weekends. Crypto markets do not adhere to centralized exchange hours, and liquidity can shift quickly. CME highlighted that the extended schedule will help firms manage exposure immediately rather than waiting until Monday.

Wall Street Eyes its Own 24-7 Markets

CME’s move comes as major stock exchanges consider similar plans. Executives from Nasdaq and the New York Stock Exchange have said they are preparing for nonstop stock trading. Both cited crypto’s open structure as influencing market access expectations.

The NYSE is developing an on-chain platform for around-the-clock settlement of . Nasdaq stated that full-time access is becoming a long-term goal for equity markets. While the firms have not released specific timelines, both pointed to user demand for extended hours.

If approved, CME’s nonstop schedule will represent one of the most significant structural changes in regulated derivatives trading. The company noted it will continue adapting its crypto offerings as user demand grows. This shift positions CME to serve traders who expect digital markets to remain active at all hours.