TLDR
- The CFTC is preparing to launch spot crypto trading by the end of this year.
- The agency is working with regulated exchanges to list spot crypto contracts.
- Leveraged crypto trades will be conducted on designated contract markets.
- The CFTC will operate within existing commodities regulations for these trades.
- Industry leaders have praised Caroline Pham’s proactive leadership at the CFTC.
The U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) is moving forward with plans to launch spot crypto trading by the end of this year. According to a report from CoinDesk, Acting Chairman Caroline Pham confirmed that the agency has been working directly with regulated exchanges. These exchanges are preparing to list spot crypto contracts under new CFTC guidance.
CFTC Plans to Oversee Leverage in Spot Crypto Trading
Under the CFTC’s plan, crypto trades involving leverage will occur on designated contract markets (DCMs). These exchanges will operate within existing commodities regulations, ensuring tighter oversight. The framework, however, applies only to a segment of the market, leaving future legislation to define broader regulations for U.S. spot crypto trading.
The CFTC is prioritizing regulation for spot crypto trading, which includes oversight of leveraged trades. Exchanges like Coinbase, Bitnomial, and prediction markets such as Kalshi and Polymarket are positioned to introduce these new products. With existing DCM licenses, these platforms are expected to act swiftly in launching leveraged crypto products under the CFTC’s guidance.
Acting Chairman Caroline Pham has taken a hands-on approach in leading the CFTC. Pham’s leadership has helped maintain progress on key initiatives despite ongoing delays in the government. She has emphasized the need for clear regulations while ensuring that existing powers are utilized to manage the evolving crypto market.
CFTC Sets the Stage for Broader Crypto Market Structure
The CFTC is preparing to provide more comprehensive guidance on crypto trading through regulatory measures. Pham’s leadership has garnered support from industry leaders who appreciate the CFTC’s proactive approach to regulation. Faryar Shirzad, Chief Policy Officer at Coinbase, commended Pham for keeping crucial projects moving forward.
The regulatory framework for spot crypto trading will prioritize investor protection and market integrity. With the federal government shutdown causing delays in other crypto-related policy initiatives, the CFTC’s actions represent a step toward maintaining order in the crypto sector. The agency continues its efforts to ensure that the spot crypto trading market remains safe and transparent for investors.
The broader crypto sector remains closely tied to ongoing discussions in Congress. While new legislation is still pending, the CFTC is using its current authority to ensure progress. Industry players are hopeful that the CFTC’s actions will provide much-needed clarity for the rapidly evolving crypto market.
As the CFTC continues consultations with Congress, it is expected that more products related to spot crypto trading will soon be available. The agency’s framework aims to prevent risky practices and protect traders. This framework will help guide the market through existing regulations while awaiting the passage of further laws.
The CFTC is moving ahead with its plans for spot crypto trading under existing regulations. These actions align with the President’s Working Group on Digital Asset Markets’ recommendations. The agency’s efforts signal a strong commitment to establishing a safer and more transparent crypto market in the U.S.


