What exactly changes on May 29 for CME crypto futures?

CME plans to offer continuous trading in Bitcoin and Ethereum futures, including Saturdays and Sundays, pending regulatory review. Order books will remain open through the weekend, with brief maintenance windows. That reduces gap risk from Monday opens and lets investors hedge positions when spot markets move on news or on-chain events outside US weekday hours.

Does 24/7 trading increase risk for Australian investors?

It can if controls are weak. Liquidity may vary on weekends, so slippage can rise during thin periods. Put clear stop-loss rules in place, expand alerts, and keep extra collateral for weekend moves. Start with smaller sizes, track depth by hour, and review performance to refine execution windows as the market matures.

How can Australians access CME crypto futures?

Use a futures broker or FCM that supports CME crypto products and weekend operations. You will need a futures account, risk approvals, and access to trading and clearing systems that run seven days. Factor AUD-USD conversion for margin and P&L, and confirm costs, collateral movements, and reporting with your broker before going live.

Will 24/7 futures change BTC and ETH price behaviour?

It may smooth weekend gaps and tighten the link between futures and spot. Spreads could widen temporarily during low-flow hours, then compress as liquidity builds. Basis swings into Monday might ease. Price direction still depends on broader demand, macro data, and crypto-specific catalysts, but execution risk should improve with continuous access.

Global Market Insights

BTCUSD Today: CME 24/7 Crypto Futures Start May 29 – February 21

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 21, 2026February 21, 2026

Cryptocurrency trading is set for a major shift as CME Group moves Bitcoin and Ethereum futures to 24/7 from May 29, pending regulatory review. The change lets institutions manage weekend volatility in line with the always-on spot market. For Australian investors, that means hedging BTCUSD and ETHUSD exposure without gaps in coverage. The CFTC chair has signalled support for round-the-clock markets, a step that reduces basis risk between futures and spot. We break down what this means, how to prepare, and where the opportunities may emerge.