CFTC and SEC Seek Input on Derivatives Definitions Amid Perpetual Futures Scrutiny

The US Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) have jointly opened a public comment period on derivatives product definitions, a move that may impact how perpetual futures are treated in the US.

The joint request is part of a broader effort to address ambiguities within Title VII of Dodd-Frank, which has limited competition and innovation in the market. CFTC Chairman Michael Selig said the request offers an opportunity to clarify where perpetual-style contracts sit, potentially giving major domestic platforms a clearer path to offer perpetual futures.

The comment period is expected to run for 60 days after publication in the Federal Register. The outcome could influence which venues can offer crypto derivatives and under what clearing rules.