CME Group, a leading global derivatives marketplace, has announced plans to expand its cryptocurrency derivatives offerings with the upcoming launch of futures contracts for Cardano (ADA), Chainlink (LINK), and Stellar (XLM). The launch is scheduled for February 9th, pending regulatory approval.
These new contracts will be available in both standard and micro sizes, providing investors with options for larger positions and smaller, more accessible transactions. Specifically, ADA futures will be sized at 100,000 ADA with Micro ADA at 10,000 ADA. LINK futures will be 5,000 LINK, and Micro LINK contracts will be 250 LINK. For Stellar (XLM), the futures contracts will represent 250,000 Lumens, with Micro Lumens contracts at 12,500 Lumens.
This expansion further broadens CME Group's existing cryptocurrency product suite, which already includes futures and options for Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, and Solana.
Market Performance and Industry Outlook
CME Group reported record volumes and open interest in its cryptocurrency futures and options during 2025. While the demand for regulated digital asset products saw acceleration early in the year, the momentum slowed towards the end. Data indicates a significant decline in Bitcoin futures volume and open interest in December, marking the weakest month of 2025. Ethereum and Solana contracts also experienced consecutive monthly decreases leading up to the end of the year, following widespread market liquidations in October.
Giovanni Vicioso, Head of Global Crypto Products at CME Group, highlighted the rapid growth of cryptocurrencies over the past year. He noted that customers are actively seeking reliable and regulated products to manage price risk and gain exposure to this dynamic market. Vicioso emphasized that the new micro and standard contracts will offer investors enhanced flexibility and capital efficiency.
Market participants have expressed strong support for this development. Bob Fitzsimmons, Vice President of Wedbush Securities, stated that the maturation of regulated crypto futures products is crucial for the sector. Martin Franchi, CEO of NinjaTrader, described the move as a "turning point" for the futures industry. Justin Young, CEO of Volatility Shares, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the critical role of more regulated products in risk management.
Key Performance Data for 2025
CME Group's key data for 2025 reveals significant growth in its crypto derivatives market. The average daily volume in crypto futures and options reached a record high of 278,300 contracts, equivalent to approximately $12 billion in nominal value. Average open interest also set a record, reaching 313,900 contracts, valued at $26.4 billion in nominal terms. The options market also saw historical activity, with an average daily volume of 4,100 contracts and an average open interest of 60,400 contracts.