CME Group Considers Launching XRP and SOL Futures Contracts
CME Group is considering launching futures contracts for XRP and SOL, although no concrete plans have been announced. Recent screenshots suggested these contracts could debut next month, but a CME spokesperson clarified that the images were part of an error in a beta page with no final decisions made.
The interest in XRP and SOL futures aligns with a rise in crypto ETF filings, including proposed spot funds for both assets. Observers note that SEC approval for such ETFs may be delayed until a regulated futures market is established. The SEC has previously labeled SOL as a security and is pursuing an appeal against Ripple.
Key points include:
- CME launched bitcoin futures in December 2017 and ether futures in early 2021.
- Futures contracts often precede the launch of ETFs investing directly in the underlying assets.
- VolatilityShares filed for a Solana futures ETF in December, followed by ProShares last week.
- Teucrium is planning products to invest in XRP futures.
- Bitwise registered a trust for Dogecoin, although it is not yet a formal proposal to the SEC.