CME Group is widening its crypto derivatives lineup, announcing plans to introduce futures tied to Cardano (ADA), Chainlink (LINK), and Stellar (Lumens) on February 9, pending regulatory approval. The move adds three more assets to CME’s growing roster of regulated crypto contracts.
The new offerings will come in two sizes: ADA futures at 100,000 ADA and micro contracts at 10,000 ADA; LINK futures at 5,000 LINK and micro contracts at 250 LINK; and Stellar futures at 250,000 Lumens with micro contracts at 12,500 Lumens. This dual structure is designed to give both institutional and retail traders more flexibility in managing exposure.
Giovanni Vicioso, CME Group’s Global Head of Cryptocurrency Products, said the expansion reflects client demand for trusted instruments. “Clients are looking for regulated products to manage price risk and gain exposure. These contracts provide greater choice and capital‑efficiency,” he explained.
Industry reaction has been swift. Wedbush Securities’ Bob Fitzsimmons called the listings another step in the maturation of crypto futures. NinjaTrader CEO Martin Franchi described the launch as a “watershed moment” for retail investors, while Volatility Shares co‑founder Justin Young praised CME for setting the pace in regulated crypto markets.
Expanding a Record‑Setting Suite
Cardano, Chainlink, and Stellar will join CME’s existing suite of Bitcoin, Ether, XRP, and Solana futures. In 2025, CME reported record average daily volume of 278,300 contracts, worth $12 billion notional, alongside record open interest of 313,900 contracts valued at $26.4 billion.
By adding three more assets, CME is reinforcing its position as the world’s leading derivatives marketplace and signaling that crypto is now firmly embedded alongside traditional asset classes.
