CME Group is currently exploring the development of its own digital token as part of a strategic shift to modernize its digital infrastructure. Chief Executive Officer Terry Duffy disclosed the initiative during the company’s fourth-quarter earnings call on February 4, explaining that the exchange is evaluating new ways to handle collateral and margin for crypto derivatives. The project, often referred to as “CME Coin,” aims to facilitate more efficient trading in a market that operates 24/7, contrasting with the traditional banking hours that often limit settlement speeds.
The proposed token is envisioned as a tool for institutional settlement and collateral rather than a cryptocurrency for the general public. Duffy noted that CME is prioritizing security by looking at tokenized cash and instruments issued by systemically important financial institutions. By utilizing its own token, CME could significantly reduce friction in high-volume trading and improve capital efficiency for its clients. This initiative is being developed alongside a “tokenized cash” project with Google Cloud, which is expected to provide the technical foundation for these digital products starting in late 2026.
This push toward digital tokens aligns with CME’s broader plan to transition to full 24/7 trading for cryptocurrency derivatives by the second quarter of 2026. Currently, the exchange is seeing a massive surge in institutional interest, with average daily volumes reaching $12 billion in 2025. By expanding its trading hours to match the non-stop nature of the crypto spot market, CME hopes to provide better hedging opportunities for market makers and hedge funds during weekends and holidays.
While the “CME Coin” project is still in its exploratory phase without a confirmed launch date or formal regulatory filings, the exchange continues to expand its product lineup. Following the successful introduction of Solana and XRP futures in late 2025, CME is scheduled to launch Cardano, Chainlink, and Stellar futures on February 9.
