Coinbase, one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges in the world, has just announced the launch of 24/7 perpetual futures trading for Bitcoin and Ethereum to eligible US customers.
Previously, perpetual futures trading was primarily available to international users through Coinbase International Exchange and its offshore derivatives platform.
However, with recent regulatory advancements, the exchange is now extending access to US traders under its Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC)-regulated entity, Coinbase Financial Markets – the brokerage entity that provides direct access to these futures for U.S. traders.
To offer Futures Trading by its Derivates Exchange
Notably, this perpetual-style futures contract provides users with a hedge against market volatility by allowing them to trade, speculate, and access real-time markets now 24/7 through Coinbase’s CFTC-regulated exchange, Coinbase Derivatives, formerly known as FairX, which Coinbase acquired in 2022.
This marks the first time that U.S. traders will have access to 24/7 futures trading. While other crypto exchanges have long offered perpetual futures trading, they have always operated outside the U.S.—until now.
This move marks a significant expansion of its derivatives offerings and aligns with the increasing demand for round-the-clock crypto trading.
Why This Move by Coinbase Matters
Perpetual futures contracts, unlike traditional futures, do not have an expiration date, allowing traders to maintain their positions indefinitely. This feature makes them highly attractive for both institutional and retail investors looking to hedge positions or leverage market movements.
And now in this case for Coinbase, it is allowing the 24/7 futures trading for Bitcoin and Ethereum, emphasising that it will lead to “No waiting. No missed Opportunities” for investors.
It further emphasizes that, since crypto derivatives trading accounts for roughly 85% of global crypto volumes, the worldwide crypto derivatives market holds greater potential than spot trading.
The launch of perpetual futures trading in the US is a major step for Coinbase and the broader crypto market. It reflects growing mainstream acceptance of crypto derivatives and strengthens the exchange’s position in the US trading ecosystem.
Given the high volatility of cryptocurrencies, perpetual futures allow traders to capitalize on price swings without worrying about contract expirations.
The move also signals its continued push into derivatives trading, an area dominated by international exchanges like Binance and Bybit. The ability to offer perpetual futures within US regulatory frameworks gives Coinbase a competitive edge, potentially attracting traders seeking a compliant platform.
Regulatory Considerations and Market Impact
Regulatory compliance remains a key focus for Coinbase as it expands its product offerings. The exchange secured CFTC approval for derivatives trading in 2023, positioning itself as a leader in the regulated crypto futures market.
By adhering to US regulations, it can offer greater transparency and security for traders, which may encourage institutional participation.
Moreover, this development comes amid increasing scrutiny of unregistered crypto derivatives trading in the US. By providing a regulated alternative, it can fill a critical gap in the market while ensuring adherence to financial laws.
Coinbase Expanding in US Markets
The move also reflects the San Francisco-based Coinbase strengthening efforts in the US markets with its CEO Brian Armstrong recently announcing the exchange’s plan to hire 1,000 new US employees in 2025. He was expressing optimism for the growth potential of the industry at the recently concluded White House Crypto Summit.
Thus, with perpetual futures now available around the clock, Coinbase is poised to capture a larger share of the growing crypto derivatives market. As institutional and retail investors seek innovative trading options, this move could enhance liquidity and reinforce its position as a trusted exchange in the US.
As the crypto landscape continues to evolve, its expansion into regulated perpetual futures trading underscores the industry’s shift towards compliance-driven growth, paving the way for broader adoption in the financial sector.
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