CME Crypto Futures Volume Hits Record 795K Contracts Amid Volatility

Core Insights - CME Group set a new single-day record for cryptocurrency futures and options trading with 794,903 contracts on November 21, surpassing the previous record from August, indicating a surge in demand for regulated crypto derivatives during volatile market conditions [1] Group 1: Trading Activity - The Chicago-based exchange has experienced a continuous increase in activity within its crypto suite throughout 2025, driven by both institutional and retail investors [2] - CME's year-to-date average daily volume (ADV) for crypto now stands at 270,900 contracts, valued at $12 billion in notional terms, reflecting a 132% increase compared to the same period last year [4] - In the fourth quarter of 2025, average daily volume has surged by 106% from the same period in 2024, reaching 403,200 contracts with a notional value of $14.2 billion [5] Group 2: Open Interest - Open interest, which represents the number of outstanding contracts, has risen by 82% year-over-year to 299,700 contracts, totaling $26.6 billion in notional value [4] - For the fourth quarter alone, open interest grew by 117%, totaling 493,700 contracts valued at $35.4 billion [5] Group 3: Market Demand - The increase in trading volume indicates a growing interest among investors for regulated exposure to crypto markets, even amidst ongoing uncertainty [6] - Giovanni Vicioso, CME's global head of cryptocurrency products, noted that the rising demand reflects the need for tools that assist in managing risk in an unpredictable market [2]