CME Group is set to enhance its cryptocurrency pricing offerings with the upcoming launch of real-time and reference pricing indices for Hedera’s native token, HBAR. This addition marks the latest expansion in CME’s suite of standardized market data for digital assets. The new pricing products are anticipated to go live on December 29 through the CME CF Cryptocurrency Pricing Market Data feed, which is distributed via CME Globex on Google Cloud.
According to details released by the Hedera Foundation, the launch will include daily benchmark reference rates as well as a real-time index that will continuously update, thereby positioning HBAR within the larger framework of cryptocurrency pricing data provided by CME. The Hedera Foundation’s announcement also referenced several simultaneous updates to CME’s technology and connectivity, indicating that the HBAR index is part of a broader set of enhancements being communicated through CME’s development and notice channels.
Under the proposed plan for December 29, CME Group and CF Benchmarks will release multiple Hedera-dollar reference rates along with a live index that aims to standardize pricing outputs. Daily benchmark rates are scheduled to be published shortly after 4:00 p.m. in three major regions, including weekends and bank holidays. The London publication will feature the CME CF Hedera-Dollar Reference Rate (HBARUSD_RR), while New York will release the HBARUSD_NY version around 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time, and the Asia-Pacific edition (HBARUSD_AP) will be issued at around 4:00 p.m. Hong Kong/Singapore time.
In addition to the various reference rates, CME will introduce the CME CF Hedera-Dollar Real-Time Index (HBARUSD RTI), which will refresh approximately every second. The indices will be accessible through the condensed CME CF Cryptocurrency Pricing Market Data feed on channel 213; however, it is important to note that these new indices will not be utilized for settling any contracts. Access to a testing environment will be available through the New Release environment of CME, although there will be no certification required.
The Hedera Foundation’s notice further elaborates on CME’s technological advancements through the CME Globex platform, particularly concerning the transition of its systems to Google Cloud. This includes updates outlined in CME Globex Notices and the unveiling of a new private Google Cloud Chicago region and co-location facility. These changes are aimed at bolstering the derivative markets listed by CME Group.
In the announcement, CME also indicated a comprehensive roadmap for enhancements to infrastructure and market data across asset classes. Upcoming updates will encompass certification host IP alterations, the introduction of new market data multicast groups in early 2026, and the establishment of a new market data channel (335) to facilitate equity index and alternative product enhancements.
Coinciding with this expansion, HBAR is currently facing a decline in its market performance, with reports indicating it was trading at $0.1135, reflecting a 5.32% decrease over the past 24 hours.
