CME Group is set to launch XRP futures on May 19, pending regulatory approval, further expanding its footprint in the digital asset derivatives market. The announcement marks a significant addition to the exchange’s crypto offerings, as XRP continues to gain traction among both retail and institutional investors.
Offering Contracts for Diverse Traders
CME’s XRP futures will be available in two sizes: micro contracts representing 2,500 XRP and larger contracts for 50,000 XRP. These contracts will be cash-settled, using the CME CF XRP-Dollar Reference Rate, which is determined daily at 4:00 p.m. London time.
This product launch aligns with the growing demand for capital-efficient tools in crypto trading. Giovanni Vicioso, CME’s Head of Crypto Product Strategy, emphasized the rationale behind the decision: “Interest in XRP and its underlying ledger (XRPL) has steadily increased as institutional and retail adoption for the network grows, and we are pleased to launch these new futures contracts to provide a capital-efficient toolset to support clients’ investment and hedging strategies.”
From Rumor to Reality
The news of the XRP futures follows earlier speculation sparked by a leak on CME’s staging website. At the time, it mentioned a February 10 release date for both XRP and Solana futures, which the company later clarified as incorrect. Now, with a confirmed May 19 target, CME has officially thrown its weight behind the XRP market.
XRP currently ranks as the fourth-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, which makes the timing of this product launch particularly strategic. The move is expected to draw more investors looking to hedge or gain exposure to XRP in a regulated environment.
Expanding Crypto Offerings
The XRP futures launch follows CME’s broader expansion into crypto, which already includes Bitcoin and Ether futures and options, along with recently introduced Solana (SOL) futures. This expansion is backed by strong performance metrics—CME reported an average daily volume of 198,000 crypto contracts in Q1 2025, equivalent to $11.3 billion in notional value, representing a 141% year-over-year increase.
Additionally, open interest rose to 251,000 contracts, marking an 83% surge compared to the same period last year.
A Broader Push Toward Retail Accessibility
JB Mackenzie, VP and GM of Futures and International at Robinhood, sees the CME’s XRP futures as a key step in democratizing access. “Bringing CME Group XRP futures to Robinhood is a natural next step in our mission to expand retail access to futures trading,” he said.
Further support for XRP’s growing adoption came from Sal Gilbertie, CEO of Teucrium, who noted the asset’s practical use cases. “XRP was purpose-built for real financial use cases and today facilitates global value transfers through the fast, low-cost XRP Ledger.” Teucrium’s 2x Daily Long XRP ETF hit $35 million in AUM within just 10 trading days.