CME Explores Launching Its Own Coin as 24/7 Trading for Crypto Funds Nears

Core Viewpoint - CME Group is actively considering launching its own cryptocurrency and moving all crypto products to 24/7 trading, indicating a strategic shift in its approach to digital assets [1][2]. Group 1: Cryptocurrency Initiatives - CME Group is collaborating with Google on a tokenized cash initiative aimed at secure wholesale payments and asset tokenization, expected to roll out later this year [2]. - The company is exploring the potential of launching its own coin on a decentralized network, which distinguishes it from competitors like Citigroup and JPMorgan that are using private networks for tokenization [2]. Group 2: Trading Operations - CME Group has been contemplating 24/7 trading for its crypto products for some time, with plans to begin around-the-clock trading for cryptocurrency futures and options in early 2026, pending regulatory review [3]. - The firm is preparing to launch futures for XRP and Solana, alongside other cryptocurrencies like Chainlink, Cardano, and Stellar [3]. Group 3: Trading Volume Performance - In 2025, CME Group reported record cryptocurrency trading volumes, with an average daily volume increase of 92% year-over-year in Q4, translating to over $13 billion in notional value traded per day [4].