CME Launches XRP Futures Contracts, Signaling Major Institutional Interest in the Token

This move is a huge milestone for XRP, as the CME is considered one of the most trusted and regulated futures exchanges in the world.

The Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) will launch XRP futures contracts on May 19, offering both large and micro-sized contracts, the exchange announced on Thursday.

The new futures will be available in both standard and "mini" sizes, giving traders more flexibility and precision in managing their exposure to XRP.

This move is a huge milestone for XRP, especially considering the CME's stature as one of the most trusted and regulated futures exchanges globally. While other platforms like Coinbase and Bitnomial have already launched XRP futures, they are relatively small players compared to the CME.

Many experts believe this development is a key step toward the long-awaited approval of an XRP Spot ETF. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) often looks to the CME as a gold standard when considering futures markets, and having XRP futures listed there strengthens the case for an ETF.

The CME listing is also relevant given the recent changes in the SEC's leadership and attitude toward cryptocurrencies. With Paul Atkins now serving as the Chair and a more pro-crypto stance emerging from the agency, there's a strong possibility of an eventful year for new asset classes to become available as ETFs.

According to Ben Armstrong, an analyst at Stream Chain, there's a high chance of seeing the first batch of crypto Spot ETFs approved by Q2 or Q3 2025.

If these ETFs get the green light, it could mark a major turning point for XRP's market growth and wider adoption.

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