CME Group is set to enhance its cryptocurrency derivatives offerings with the introduction of new futures contracts linked to three notable cryptocurrencies: Cardano (ADA), Chainlink (LINK), and Stellar (Lumens). These contracts are anticipated to launch on February 9, pending regulatory approval, and will include both standard and micro-sized versions aimed at catering to a broad range of market participants.
The newly introduced futures contracts will feature ADA contracts in sizes of 100,000 ADA, complemented by micro contracts at 10,000 ADA to offer varying levels of exposure. Chainlink futures will be available in blocks of 5,000 LINK, with the option for micro contracts sized at 250 LINK. Additionally, Stellar futures will come in larger contracts of 250,000 Lumens, with micro contracts set at 12,500 Lumens.
Giovanni Vicioso, the Global Head of Cryptocurrency Products at CME Group, highlighted that this expansion is a clear response to growing client demand for regulated financial instruments that facilitate price risk management and exposure to crypto markets. He emphasized that with the introduction of both larger and micro-sized contracts, market participants will benefit from enhanced flexibility and improved capital efficiency.
The industry response to this announcement has been overwhelmingly positive. Bob Fitzsimmons from Wedbush Securities described the addition as indicative of the maturing nature of the crypto futures market. Martin Franchi, the CEO of NinjaTrader, characterized the launch as a pivotal moment for retail investors seeking easier pathways into cryptocurrency trading. Justin Young of Volatility Shares noted that CME Group continues to set the benchmark for regulated crypto products, reinforcing its position in the evolving financial landscape.
With these new offerings, Cardano, Chainlink, and Stellar will integrate into CME’s existing suite of crypto futures, which already includes Bitcoin, Ether, XRP, and Solana. Notably, CME reported remarkable activity in 2025, reaching an average daily trading volume of 278,300 contracts, representing approximately $12 billion in notional value, and a record open interest of 313,900 contracts valued at around $26.4 billion.
This strategic expansion further solidifies CME Group’s position as the preeminent derivatives marketplace, providing benchmark products across various asset classes while seamlessly integrating cryptocurrency into the broader financial markets.
