CME Group to Launch XRP Futures ETF on May 19

CME Group will launch CFTC-regulated XRP futures on May 19, 2025, offering micro and standard contracts to retail and institutional investors in the U.S.

This launch could integrate XRP further into institutional investments, with predictions of a spot ETF approval potentially rising.

CME Group, a U.S.-based derivatives marketplace, announced the launch of XRP futures. The contracts are CFTC-regulated and follow previous Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana futures introductions. CME’s move anticipates increased institutional demand for Ripple’s XRP.

Giovanni Vicioso, CME’s Global Head of Cryptocurrency Products, emphasized expanding institutional and retail interest in XRP. Two contract sizes will be available, offering cash-settled, XRP-Dollar Reference Rate pricing. This launch underscores CME’s role in regulated crypto derivatives.

The XRP futures launch is expected to increase institutional exposure and volatility, impacting liquidity. Futures approval might influence the SEC’s decision on a spot ETF, with market odds currently favoring approval. Investor excitement echoes previous CME product debuts.

Predictions indicate rising odds for a spot ETF approval, contingent on CME futures success. Historical launches have driven asset volatility and fresh liquidity. The potential impact on XRP resembles trends seen with prior Bitcoin and Ethereum futures.

Launches like BTC futures (2017) and ETH futures (2021) resulted in price surges and increased institutional flows. XRP could see a similar trajectory, though experts suggest gains may not match Bitcoin and Ethereum’s explosive debuts.

Market experts view regulated futures as a gateway for mainstream adoption. XRP’s launch may confirm anticipated growth for cryptocurrency derivatives. Analysts from Kanalcoin highlight the potential for market shifts, driven by institutional involvement and regulatory clarity.

Giovanni Vicioso, Global Head of Cryptocurrency Products, CME Group, “We’ve seen increased demand for regulated tools to manage risk and gain access to Ripple’s digital asset from professional and retail clients.”