The world’s largest derivatives exchange, CME Group, has no plans to launch memecoin-based derivatives, despite growing interest from token issuers. Instead, the company is focusing on assets with real-world utility and is exploring the possibility of moving to a 24/7 trading model to close the gap with spot crypto markets.
CME Doesn’t Believe in Memecoins
While asset managers like VanEck and 21Shares are pushing exchange-traded products based on Dogecoin and Trump Coin, CME is taking a different stance. Gio Vicioso, CME’s global head of crypto products, stated that the company does not see value in memecoins as an asset class.
“We launch products based on tokens with real use cases, and we don’t anticipate working with memecoins because they simply don’t have any,” he said.
Focus on Infrastructure Assets
CME has expanded its crypto derivatives lineup by adding Solana and XRP to its offerings, complementing its existing contracts on Bitcoin and Ether. The exchange reports positive results from this strategy. Since February, SOL futures have reached a total trading volume of around $5 billion, with an average daily volume of $75–100 million. XRP futures, which launched in May, have nearly hit $2 billion in total volume, setting a daily record of $235 million on Friday.
CME currently operates on a standard trading schedule: from 6:00 p.m. Sunday to 5:00 p.m. Friday Eastern Time, with a one-hour daily maintenance break.
CME Explores 24/7 Trading Model
CME’s consideration of a 24/7 trading model contrasts with the always-on nature of crypto exchanges. To keep pace, major U.S. stock exchanges like Nasdaq and NYSE are already deploying infrastructure for around-the-clock trading. While CME has yet to make a formal move, it is actively monitoring the trend.
“We are looking into it, but not making any plans at the moment,” Vicioso said.
According to him, rising demand for crypto products and the sector’s increasing maturity may eventually push the exchange to eliminate the gap between its Friday close and Sunday evening reopening.
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