CME Group Will Add XRP Futures Contracts to Its Lineup on May 19

CME Group, the world's leading derivatives marketplace, will add XRP to its lineup of regulated cryptocurrency futures contracts on May 19, subject to regulatory approval.

CME Group will add units of Ripple’s XRP to its futures lineup on May 19, pending regulatory approval, the exchange announced Monday.

The world’s leading derivatives marketplace will offer the new futures contracts in two sizes: micro contracts of 2,500 XRP and standard contracts of 50,000. Both will be cash-settled, using the CME CF XRP-Dollar Reference Rate.

The addition marks the latest expansion of CME’s crypto offerings, which already include Bitcoin and Ether futures and options, as well as recently launched Solana (SOL) futures.

According to CME, trading volumes in its crypto futures suite are surging. Average daily volume in Q1 reached 198,000 contracts—equivalent to $11.3 billion in notional value—up 141% year-over-year. Open interest also rose 83% over the same period.

Giovanni Vicioso, CME’s global head of cryptocurrency products, said interest in Ripple’s cross-border token has grown alongside adoption of the XRP Ledger—a blockchain known for its fast, low-cost transactions and use in cross-border payments.

“We are pleased to launch these new futures contracts to provide a capital-efficient toolset to support clients’ investment and hedging strategies.”

CME’s XRP Futures Will Be Available For Retail Investors

Retail traders will also have access. Robinhood, which already offers crypto spot trading, announced plans to list CME’s XRP futures, allowing users to trade them through its mobile platform.

JB Mackenzie, who leads the firm’s futures and international division, said it’s a “natural next step” as retail users are interested in more sophisticated investment instruments.

“We are always looking for ways to expand our offerings and provide our customers with the products and services they need to succeed in today’s market,” he added.

The token’s growing presence in traditional finance is also evident in the ETF market. Sal Gilbertie, CEO of Teucrium, noted that the Teucrium 2x Daily Long XRP ETF reached $35 million in assets within its first 10 trading days.

“It’s a testament to the demand for leveraged and inverse products in the crypto space, and we are proud to be able to offer these innovative investment vehicles to our customers.”