Spot Digital Asset Trading Approved for CFTC-Registered Venues

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For the first time, spot cryptocurrency contracts will be traded on futures exchanges registered with the US Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). The agency announced the move on Thursday, marking a significant step in formalizing digital asset markets within the US regulatory framework.

This initiative, initially suggested in August, represents a continued effort by the current administration to integrate digital assets into mainstream finance. The change is anticipated to facilitate broader adoption and use of cryptocurrencies by providing a regulated domestic marketplace.

“Recent events on offshore exchanges have demonstrated the critical need for Americans to have greater choice and access to safe, regulated US markets,” stated CFTC Acting Chairman Caroline Pham.

The CFTC, which oversees US derivatives markets, had also initiated a project in September to gather input from industry participants on the potential use of tokenized collateral, including stablecoins, within derivatives trading. The digital asset industry has seen considerable regulatory progress this year, with proposed legislation like the GENIUS Act and CLARITY Act aiming to establish tailored rules long advocated by the sector.

This supportive regulatory direction under the current administration contrasts with the previous approach, which pursued more aggressive enforcement actions against the industry in an effort to combat fraud and illicit finance.