CME Prepares for 24/7 Crypto Trading, Potentially Erasing Gaps

The Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) hosts a range of cryptocurrency derivatives, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and others. However, it's worth noting that CME only trades a handful of crypto assets, excluding low-cap and volatile mid-cap coins without 'business logic.'

CME futures contracts are cash-settled based on regulated reference rates, ensuring transparency and credibility in pricing. The exchange will launch 24/7 trading for all crypto futures and options starting May 29, 2026, pending regulatory approval.

This development could potentially change the dynamics of CME gaps, which occur when the CME closes trading for the weekend but cryptocurrencies continue to rise or fall in price, creating a gap between the opening prices on Monday. These gaps are usually filled and can be used as buying or selling opportunities.