TLDR
- CME set to launch Cardano, Chainlink, and Stellar futures on Feb. 9
- New contracts include standard and micro sizes for flexible risk exposure
- Cardano joins Bitcoin, Ether, XRP, and Solana in CME’s crypto lineup
- Chainlink futures target growing demand for oracle-based crypto exposure
- Stellar futures expand regulated access to payment-focused blockchains
CME Group prepared to broaden its regulated crypto derivatives suite with new futures tied to Cardano, Chainlink and Stellar. The exchange set February 9 as the planned launch date, pending regulatory approval. The expansion signaled continued demand for structured tools that support market participation across major digital assets.
Cardano Futures to Strengthen CME’s Altcoin Coverage
CME Group introduced standard and micro Cardano futures to extend its existing roster of crypto derivatives. The exchange designed the large contract at 100,000 ADA, while the micro version covers 10,000 ADA. This structure aims to support varied market strategies through defined contract sizes.
The addition reflected sustained activity surrounding Cardano and rising use of regulated hedging instruments. Market participants could apply futures to manage price exposure with clear contract terms and standardized settlement. This approach also aligned with the growing shift toward transparent infrastructure for digital asset trading.
Cardano now sits beside Bitcoin, Ether, XRP and Solana within CME’s developing portfolio. The exchange launched Bitcoin futures in 2017 and added Ethereum futures in 2021. It then expanded further in 2025 with the introduction of Solana and XRP futures alongside options.
Chainlink Futures Broaden Access to Oracle-Driven Assets
CME Group also created Chainlink futures to meet rising demand for regulated exposure to the oracle sector. The exchange set the standard contract at 5,000 LINK and the micro contract at 250 LINK. This two-tier structure enables broader participation while keeping capital requirements flexible.
Chainlink’s presence within CME’s framework highlights its expanding role in smart contract infrastructure. Market participants can adopt futures to manage directional positions or hedge exposure without holding the asset directly. This structure also provides a regulated counterpart to activity on unregulated venues.
The listing expands CME’s coverage of high-utility networks that hold growing relevance in the wider digital economy. LINK futures add layer to CME’s strategy, which emphasizes established assets with defined market depth. Therefore, the inclusion supports the exchange’s long-term plan to scale its crypto derivatives segment.
Stellar Futures Extend Regulated Access to Payments-Focused Networks
CME Group confirmed plans to launch Stellar futures designed for payment-oriented digital assets. The standard contract carries 250,000 XLM, while the micro contract holds 12,500 XLM. This rollout forms part of CME’s effort to widen choices across different blockchain sectors.
Stellar’s focus on cross-border settlement positions it as a practical addition to the exchange’s expanding product line. Futures allow structured participation without requiring asset custody on external platforms. The setup also promotes consistent risk management across varied capital sizes.
The introduction reinforces CME Group’s momentum as crypto derivatives activity continues to grow on regulated exchanges. It showcases an industry trend where established financial institutions expand offerings beyond the dominant blockchains. CME’s decision underscores a broader shift toward multi-asset coverage that reflects evolving digital market structures
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